As the baseball season approaches, fans and players alike are eager to see what the Layton High School team has in store for them this year. Coach Robert Ferneau, who has been at the helm of the team for several years now, is excited about what the team can achieve. In this preview article, we sat down with Coach Ferneau to discuss the team's top returning players, new players to watch out for, his coaching philosophy, and more.
The team is coming off a successful season, and Coach Ferneau has high hopes for the upcoming one. When asked about the top returning players from last season, he mentioned Fish Manning, Tanner Neil, and Carter Schoenfeld. These three players are the "glue" of the team, according to Coach Ferneau. They have a love for the game and play it the right way, making them valuable assets to the team. Their experience and leadership on the field will be crucial in helping the team achieve their goals.
Coach Ferneau's main goal for the team this year is to end up at the Utah Valley and be the last team standing. To achieve this, he emphasizes the importance of timely hitting and competitive at-bats. These are key factors that can make or break a game, and Coach Ferneau knows that his players need to excel in these areas to be successful.
When it comes to new players making an impact, Coach Ferneau has his eye on Nik Bielaczyc, Will Hoffman, and Austin Pritchett. These players are also in the running for team captains. Coach Ferneau looks for specific qualities in potential captains, such as leadership, dedication, and a love for the game. He believes that the cream always rises to the top, and the players who demonstrate these qualities will ultimately earn the captaincy.
Team chemistry and camaraderie are also essential aspects of a successful team. Coach Ferneau believes that the players' chemistry on and off the field is crucial for their success. He also believes that the cream always rises to the top in this area as well. The team may not have official captains, but the leaders will naturally emerge and help the team bond and work together towards their common goal.
To push his players to their full potential, Coach Ferneau has been implementing the 12 Pillar Process from Brian Cain. This process focuses on mental and emotional training, helping athletes develop a strong mindset and a competitive edge. Coach Ferneau knows that having a strong mental game is just as important as physical skills in baseball, and he is confident that his players will benefit from this training.
As with any sport, there are always challenges in preparing for a new season. For the Layton High School team, one of the biggest challenges is not having the same facilities as other teams. Some teams have their own indoor facilities, while others pay to use them. The Layton team does not have either of these options, so they have to adapt and make the most of their practice time on the field.
When it comes to the team's schedule, Coach Ferneau and his players are excited to face tough opponents and play competitive games. They have a mix of in-state and out-of-state games, which will provide a good balance of competition. Coach Ferneau believes that playing the game, not just the opponent, is crucial. He wants his players to focus on their own skills and strategies rather than getting too caught up in the opponent's strengths.
The mental aspect of the game is also essential for the Layton High School team. Coach Ferneau acknowledges that some years, the team may need a little more motivation and pushing, while in other years, they may have a natural drive and determination. As a coach, he adapts his coaching style to the team's needs and abilities.
The team's strengths lie in their work ethic and determination. Coach Ferneau has noticed a significant improvement in the team's strength and conditioning, as they have emphasized weights and nutrition during the summer and fall. This has boosted their confidence and made them stronger and more prepared for the upcoming season. As for weaknesses, Coach Ferneau believes that the team needs to play with more confidence and competitiveness. He sees this as a mindset shift that can come with experience and hard work.
Finally, Coach Ferneau's coaching philosophy is centered around hard work and perseverance. He believes that this team has the potential to be great, and their hard work and dedication will ultimately pay off. He is excited to see his players reap the benefits of their efforts and is confident that they will make him proud this season.
In conclusion, the Layton High School baseball team has high hopes for the upcoming season. With a strong core of returning players and new additions who are ready to make an impact, Coach Ferneau and his team are determined to end the season as the last team standing. With a focus on timely hitting, competitive at-bats, and a strong mental game, the Layton High School team is ready to take on any challenges that come their way. Good luck to the team, and go Lancers!
Share With