Amherst High School's baseball team is gearing up for an exciting season ahead, with high expectations and a strong group of returning players. We had the opportunity to speak with Coach Bill Held about his team and their plans for the upcoming season.
First and foremost, Coach Held highlighted the top returning players from last season who will be instrumental in the team's success this year. AJ O'Brien, a 1st Team All-Conference player, will be a key player both on the mound and in the infield. Additionally, Noah Spoelstra, a 3-time all-conference honoree, brings strong skills behind the plate as the team's catcher.
Ethan Peskie, Michael Glodowski, John Carlson, and Sully Perkins also bring valuable experience to the team's lineup. Coach Held emphasized that these players have shown their ability to perform at a high level and their leadership will be crucial in the team's pursuit of a conference championship and a deep playoff run.
While the returning players have set the bar high, Coach Held also expressed his excitement for the new players on the team who he believes will make an immediate impact. Logan Hintz and Dylan Cook, both juniors, will be starting for the first time on varsity this year. There is also a strong freshman class that may have a significant role on the team, but their specific roles will be determined as the season progresses.
When it comes to potential team captains, Coach Held looks for players who possess strong leadership skills and a strong work ethic. This year, seniors Noah Spoelstra and Michael Glodowski were chosen as captains for their natural ability to lead and communicate effectively with their teammates. Coach Held also mentioned that both players have a great work ethic and are not afraid to address difficult topics, which will be important in building team chemistry.
Speaking of team chemistry, Coach Held stressed the importance of this aspect of the game. He believes that having a positive and cohesive team dynamic is crucial for success both on and off the field. To foster this, the team will participate in team-building activities and have open communication with each other. Coach Held also mentioned the importance of the mental aspect of the game, and how the team will work on strengthening their mental toughness in order to compete at their best.
As for the team's schedule, Coach Held acknowledged the challenges that come with being a small school and having to share athletes with other spring sports and activities. However, he emphasized the need for accountability and pushing the team to make improvements, even with limited time and resources. The team will face tough opponents in the Central WI East Conference, including Bonduel, Wittenberg, and Shiocton who are known to consistently put up a good fight. Coach Held believes that in order to come out on top, the team must be prepared and give their best effort in every game.
When asked about any changes or improvements made to the team's training and conditioning program, Coach Held emphasized its vital role in the team's success. He believes that mental toughness is just as important as physical strength and skills in the game of baseball. Therefore, the team will focus on not only improving their physical abilities but also their mental toughness. Coach Held also mentioned that he will have higher expectations and push the team harder this season in order to reach their goal of becoming a true state contender.
Finally, Coach Held shared his coaching philosophy and how it reflects in the team's gameplay. He believes that experience is the team's greatest strength, but it also brings a heightened awareness of their potential. Offensively, the team expects to be strong and defensively, they have improved significantly from last season. On the mound, they have three pitchers who have shown their capabilities and it will be interesting to see who takes on the role of leading the team to victory in the big games.
In conclusion, Amherst High School's baseball team is poised for an exciting and successful season. With a strong group of returning players, as well as new talent, and a dedicated coaching staff, the team is ready to compete for a conference championship and make a deep playoff run. Their focus on team chemistry, mental toughness, and hard work will be the key to their success. As Coach Held said, "Time will tell" which players will step up and lead the team to victory.
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