Editor's note: this feature appeared in UTSA's digital game program from Saturday's home opener with Stephen F. Austin at the Alamodome. For the complete digital program, visit www.goUTSA.com/program.
UTSA senior offensive lineman Dominic Pastucci has been a vital contributor for the Roadrunners throughout his career, playing in 33 games, second most on the team. As a senior, Pastucci has stepped into the starting lineup, helping the Roadrunners churn out 330 rushing yards in a win at Texas State in the season opener on Saturday. On Tuesday, Pastucci sat down for a Roadrunner Q&A with our own Dominique Ramos.
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
Dominic Pastucci: I'm a senior at UTSA who was born in Glen Mills, Pa, and moved to Texas in 2008. I went to Henderson High School in Pflugerville. I've earned my undergraduate degree in kinesiology and am working on my master's degree in exercise science.
What are some of your hobbies?
DP: I love to play and watch people play video games, watching YouTube videos and I have a passion for working out.
What is your favorite TV show?
DP: The Office, Parks and Recreation and Breaking Bad are a few of my favorites.
Are you an early bird or night owl?
DP: Definitely an early bird. It's been engraved in me to always wake up early. I'm tired by 9 p.m. but I can wake up at 5 or 6 a.m. with a lot of energy ready to start the day.
Outside of football, what is an interesting fact about yourself?
DP: I like to be active outdoors, I feel like you don't hear that from football players a lot since they practice and play outside, but I like to go and walk at a park, see the wilderness.
When did you start playing football?
DP: I was 4 years-old playing flag football and I remember scoring my first touchdown. That was awesome. In flag football, anyone can play anywhere so that was a fun early memory.
When did you know UTSA was the place to further your academic and athletic career?
DP: UTSA felt like home. I know that is cliché to say but the atmosphere here and the guys are like nothing else. I am also only two hours away from home which was important to me.
What have you learned during these past months going through the pandemic?
DP: You have to adapt, especially as an athlete, being able to do your home workouts to stay on top of your game. I even did a Zumba class to work out; got a good sweat but I don't have the dance moves.
Do you have any experience in taking online classes? This may be a student's first time taking an online course, so what has made you successful in your studies this far?
DP: I have taken online classes before. I prefer in person to be able to build a relationship with the professor but I have learned to transition to online. Advice I have for students first starting in online classes is to get ahead. On Mondays I sit down to figure out everything that is due this week and get it done as soon as possible to be able to focus on football. Reading is critical. You have to time manage and be organized to stay on top of everything.
How has it been working with Coach Traylor in his first year at UTSA?
DP: It's been awesome. He brings a whole other atmosphere. He has a motto that you don't have to be perfect but you do have to bring perfect effort. He and the whole coaching staff show that every day.
What will it be like to be back in the Alamodome with fans cheering you on?
DP: I honestly can't wait! Being in the Dome is way better than being outside. Seeing the fans cheer you on is like nothing else.
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