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Baseball
Boomer Elmsdale
Fri, February 16, 2024 at 07:02 AM
With the start of the high school baseball season just around the corner, all eyes are on the Berkeley High School Yellowjackets. Known for their competitive spirit and strong performance on the field, the Yellowjackets are a force to be reckoned with in the North Coast Section of California. In this preview article, we had the opportunity to speak with Coach Curtis Sandeford about the team's roster, strengths and weaknesses, and expectations for the upcoming season. League title and deep run in playoffs - these are the goals that the Yellowjackets have set for themselves this year. And with their talented and hardworking team, it's no surprise that Coach Sandeford is confident in their ability to achieve them. Leading the way for the Yellowjackets are Trey Johnson, Manny Selles, and Daniel Beadles, all of whom were named as first team all-league players last season. With Johnson's impressive outfield skills, Selles' strong arm and sweet stroke, and Beadles' commitment to the University of Pacific, the team has a strong foundation to build upon. But it's not just the standout players that make up the Yellowjackets' roster. Coach Sandeford also has high praise for sophomore Issiah Mays, who he believes has the potential to become a superstar in the near future. And adding to the mix of talent is freshman Quinton Hill, who has already made a strong impression on the team despite his young age. Hill, along with Keanu Moss and Miles Mino, are expected to make a significant impact on the team this year. When asked about his expectations for his captains this season, Coach Sandeford emphasized the importance of leading by example and having empathy for others. As leaders of the team, the captains will play a crucial role in motivating and guiding their teammates to success. With the start of the season, the Yellowjackets have faced their fair share of challenges, with the most significant being the rainy weather. But the team has persevered and continued to work hard, preparing themselves for the tough schedule ahead. In addition to league games, the Yellowjackets will also face tough competition from schools like Cardinal Newman, St. Mary's (Stockton), and Davis High School. As a coach, Sandeford has to balance his expectations and patience with the young players on his team this season.