Coach Johnny Pace has high hopes for the Scottsburg High School baseball team this year. After a successful season last year, the team is looking to build on their strengths and improve in areas where they may be lacking. With a mix of returning players and new talent, Coach Pace is determined to create a strong team both on and off the field.
One of the top returning players from last season is Brandt Kendall, a senior and Ball State commit. Kendall was among the state leaders in slugging last season, making him a valuable asset to the team. Another key player is senior Garrett McClellan, who was also among state leaders in ERA. These two players bring a high level of skill and leadership to the team, making them stand out from the rest.
As for new players, it is still too early to tell which freshmen will have an immediate impact on the team. Coach Pace is excited to see how they develop and contribute to the team as the season progresses. However, he has high expectations for all the players and believes that with hard work and dedication, they can make a positive impact on the team.
When it comes to selecting team captains, Coach Pace looks for players who possess qualities such as leadership, responsibility, and the ability to motivate and unite their teammates. As for who will take on this role, it is still being decided as the team continues to grow and develop.
Motivation is a key factor in pushing players to reach their full potential. Coach Pace believes in creating a positive and supportive environment for his players, where they feel valued and supported as both individuals and athletes. This atmosphere allows for a balance between seriousness and fun, making the game enjoyable for the players while also instilling a drive to succeed.
One of the biggest challenges in preparing for this season has been replacing the significant amount of innings on the mound lost to graduation. This will require the team to work hard and find a balance in sharing the workload. However, Coach Pace is confident in the abilities of his players and believes that with determination and hard work, they can overcome this challenge.
The team's schedule for this season includes a mix of schools from different classes, adding variety and competition to their games. Coach Pace is particularly looking forward to their rivalry game against Austin, as well as tough opponents like Whiteland and Silver Creek. He also acknowledges the importance of games against Mid-Southern Conference foes.
When it comes to his coaching style, Coach Pace believes in showing his players that he believes in them and is there to support them in their journey to improvement. He also recognizes the need for a more stern approach this season, with increased accountability and a firm hand to keep the team focused on their goals.
The mental aspect of the game is crucial for the team's success, and Coach Pace recognizes this. He understands that baseball is a game of failure and believes in building his players' mental strength to push through the tough moments and keep a positive mindset.
In terms of training and conditioning, the team has focused on improving functional strength, balance, and speed/agility with a mix of body weight, free weight, and plyometric exercises. These improvements will help the team perform at their best on the field and prevent injuries.
As for the team's strengths and weaknesses, Coach Pace believes their strengths lie in their experienced players and their ability to work together as a team. However, they will need to work on replacing the innings lost on the mound and maintaining focus throughout the season. To address these areas, Coach Pace plans on continuing to push the team in their training and instilling a strong team bond.
Overall, Coach Pace has high expectations for the Scottsburg High School baseball team this year. With a mix of returning players and new talent, he is confident that they can achieve their primary goal of developing great young men and teammates, as well as winning as many games as possible and aiming for a sectional win.
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