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Nolan Fernandez

@nolanfern_28

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Flyers | UF ATΩ
Exodus 14:14

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It’s #FormerFlyerFriday!

Today, we’re highlighting one of the most decorated catchers in Flyer history, Straton Podaras!

Podaras was a graduate of the 2016 class and a three-year varsity catcher for the Flyers. A standout leader behind the plate, Straton was a three-time NSCHSAA All-League selection, 2014 CHSAA Catcher of the Year, 2016 CatcherMtrx Catcher of the Year, and 2016 First Team All-Long Island selection. In his senior season, he served as team captain and team MVP, while being ranked the #1 high school catching prospect in New York by Prep Baseball Report.

Straton went on to play Division 1 baseball at Radford University in Virginia, where he was a four-year starter from ‘17–‘21. In 2017, he helped lead the Highlanders to a Big South Championship. During his senior campaign in 2021, Podaras earned First Team All-Big South honors, was named a Buster Posey Award Semifinalist (top 16 catchers in D1), and was a two-time Big South All-Academic Team selection. Known for his elite defense, Straton led all Division I catchers in runners caught stealing in back-to-back seasons (‘20 & ‘21) and set Radford’s all-time record with 79 career runners caught stealing.

After college, Straton signed a professional contract with the Los Angeles Angels organization, playing three seasons and advancing to their Double-A affiliate, the Rocket City Trash Pandas. He then transitioned into player development, serving as an assistant coach for Division I Long Island University during their 2024 NEC Championship and Chapel Hill Regional run. Today, he manages Complete Sports Performance in Carle Place, NY, and founded the CSP Highlanders 13u travel baseball program @csphighlanders

In 2025, Podaras brought his journey full circle by returning to Chaminade as an assistant baseball coach. Straton is the 3rd base coach for the Varsity staff, while also working with our catchers and hitters. Thank you Coach, for leading by example and setting the standard for what Chaminade Baseball is all about!

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Round 2 in Gainesville. Couldn't have worked out better having all my boys together and jules to celebrate Nolan's 18th bday with a UF vs SC game. No one saw that outcome coming (except Connor) You were a good sport as always Nolan. Miss you already. I'll be back soon! #gators #gamecocks

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Let the good times roll #knicksin5 #haskel

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Life is like kayaking—you can either surrender to the current, or you can keep pushing through and fighting. 🛶

Nolan, you chose to keep fighting.

You are truly one of the most determined and hardworking people I know. You’ve always known what you wanted, and you never gave up—whether it was school, sports, working hard to earn your own money, or always making sure your mom was taken care of. ❤️

You’ve always been the peacemaker of our family and the voice of reason when everyone else needed it. Watching you grow into the kind, generous, respectful, loving man you are today has been one of the greatest gifts of my life.

And now, the time has come for you to go out on your own. You worked SO hard to get here, and I couldn’t be more proud. And I know dad is beyond proud as well. UF was always your top choice, and they are so lucky to have you. 🐊💙🧡

We already miss you more than you know, but seeing you find your new home and start this next chapter makes my heart so full. You deserve every opportunity to grow, experience life, chase your dreams, and live your absolute best life.

Keep fighting. Keep pushing. Keep being YOU.

Go make us proud, Nolan. Although, somehow, I already know you will. ❤️

We love you more than words can say. Now go make some memories! 🎓🛶💙🧡

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Good run.

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Not too shabby

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mednaM #uncwillmington #schechner

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Thank you travel ball for all the memories made with my brothers and the coaches who have guided me along the way.

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For example nothing

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Next play. #allheart

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Dues paid #flyers #washed #shamet

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Thats a wrap for chami 🤙

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