UNIVERSITY CENTER, Mich. - Saginaw Valley State University Athletics resumes its 'Student-Athlete Spotlight' feature focusing on Cardinal student-athletes and what it means for them to be a part of the SVSU Athletics family.

The April 2013 installment of the 'Student-Athlete Spotlight' series highlights Charlotte, Mich. native Chet LaFave, the senior starting catcher on the Cardinal baseball team. LaFave is currently in his last semester of athletic eligibility at SVSU.

Chet was an All-State catcher at Charlotte High School where he participated in both basketball and baseball earning a total of seven varsity letters. He was named most valuable player for the Orioles and received the coaches award, all-league, all-district and all-area honors. LaFave also earned membership in the National Honor Society as an exceptional student in the classroom.

After spending one season at Olney Central College (Ill.), LaFave transferred to Saginaw Valley where he has put together a career .299 batting average in 105 games, including a breakout junior campaign where he hit .319 with 43 hits and 23 RBI's in 50 contests.

LaFave has also been impressive in the classroom as he compiled a 3.4 grade point average in the Occupational Therapy program. Chet plans on continuing his education in the O.T. graduate school program at SVSU.

In his own words, LaFave reflects on his experiences as a member of Cardinal Athletics and the SVSU Baseball family:

"Coming to Saginaw Valley State University was one of the greatest decisions of my life. The first class people and the wonderful campus have made the college years of my life ones to remember. The athletic department is full of great people who have worked tirelessly to lead my fellow student athletes and me in the right directions on and off the field. They have also provided a place for me to excel by making sure all of us athletes feel that we are part of a family here at SVSU.

Click here to view previous Student-Athlete Spotlight segments