The boys baseball team opened their season Tuesday night with a 11-7 win against Dobyns Bennett. Every player rotated in during the scrimmage, providing young talent the opportunity to shine while fostering teamwork among the starters, sparking hope for a successful season ahead.
“After graduating 10 seniors last year that played a key role in our success, we have a lot of young guys playing in new spots this year,” said Coach Preston Roberts.
With only two seniors, the team is counting on its “deep junior class” to step up and bring the team together, according to Coach Roberts. There are several returning starters including Gage Graziano, Preston Feagins, Dayne Musick, and Rylan Lambert.
However, one standout player is expected to fill a big role this season: junior Connor Patlan.
“We love [Patlan] and we’re all rooting for him,” said Roberts. “His dedication and spirit have made him a key figure among his teammates and coaches, inspiring everyone around him to strive for excellence.”
Patlan shares in this sentiment, as he feels that his teammates have uplifted him to the role he’s in today.
“On and off the field we’re pretty close-knit,” said Patlan. “Pressure makes diamonds.” Highlighting how the strong bond among the juniors is crucial for the team’s success, Patlan feels this unity fosters teamwork and seamless collaboration during games.
This is extended into the team’s motivation, as they feel it is greatly inspired by Patlan’s resilience. His ability to thrive in tough situations inspires his teammates to challenge themselves and rise to the occasion.
“He’s always doing the right thing at the right time,” said senior Cooper Harris.
The team’s dedication mirrors Patlan’s commitment to giving his all: when playing, the team embraces one motto.
“All you can do is give 100% all the time, never do things halfway,” said Patlan.
This relentless pursuit of excellence drives the players to push their limits and support one another through every challenge. This is why even when acknowledging the challenges ahead, Roberts remains hopeful.
“We’re in a highly competitive conference, and with such young guys, there will be some growing pains early in the season,” said Roberts. “But handling those failures is key to reaping the benefits at the end.”
Ultimately, despite losing a big senior class, the team’s goals remain high. This year, they are relying on the emerging talent of the juniors and sophomores to strengthen the team and fill the gaps, aiming to build a strong foundation for future success.
“The older I get and the longer I do this, in my twelve years of being the head coach, you understand there is no dead set line up,” said Roberts “All the guys have to keep working and continue to get better.”