GIBSONIA — Jack Anderson's first appearance as catcher in a youth baseball game happened six years ago because no one else wanted to play the position.

It's an attitude that serves the 15-year-old Gibsonia resident and Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic sophomore well.

During his freshman season with the Trojans, Anderson served in a utility role, playing as a designated hitter, in addition to seeing time in the infield and outfield.

Serving as a super utility man during the spring required some adjustment in the summer.

“We had a couple games before our tournament schedule started and I caught most of our pitchers,” Anderson said. “Being back there for the first time, I had to dust the rust off a little bit. Catching isn't the easiest position, you are in every play.”

Anderson will be back behind the plate for his travel team, U.S. Elite, during the 2015 USA Baseball 15U National Team Championships East July 10-18 in Jupiter, Fla.

This will be the second time at nationals for Anderson and fellow Gibsonia resident, Troy LaNeve. LaNeve, 15, plays right field and attends Pine-Richland High School.

The US Elite team is based out of Hollidaysburg and competes in college showcase events on the east coast and has players from Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia.

The team finished 3-4 at the team national championships last year.

“Seeing the top talent in the country helps you because it shows where you are talent-wise and where you need to improve,” Anderson said.

US Elite coach Matt LaNeve is happy to have Anderson on board.

“The difference between him last year and this year is remarkable,” LaNeve said. “He's put on a good 25 pounds since last year and really worked on his technical skills. He blocks everything behind the plate and is a middle of the lineup guy for us.”

Troy LaNeve is eager for a second crack at the tournament, where he struggled at the plate.

He's been preparing for the tournament with his brother, Zac, who played shortstop for the Butler BlueSox in 2014 and plays his college baseball at Indiana (Pa.) University.

Zac was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the 44th round of the 2011 draft.

“He's been pitching against me off the mound, throwing fast,” Troy LaNeve said. “I'm ready for faster pitching.”

Competing in the USA baseball led Anderson to some self-reflection as well.

“For me, I wanted to improve on my arm strength and quickness at the plate,” Anderson said. “I want to take more balls to the opposite field and not try to pull everything.”