Sidelined from playing the field early this season, Michael Massey’s absence has allowed freshman Branden Comia to carry the load at second base.

To the naked eye, there is just a next-guy-up mentality on the Illini’s roster, but with those two players in particular, there is much more to it.

A friendship lasting over six years is what separates these two middle infielders from the average junior and freshman relationship.

A ‘Spark’ in the Relationship

Comia began playing with the Illinois Sparks travel organization when he was 12 years old. Massey, already in the organization, was a player Comia instantly gravitated toward.