Baseball
Boomer Elmsdale
Fri, February 16, 2024 at 12:02 PM
Clay Center High School baseball team is gearing up for another exciting season, and Coach Andy Bent is confident that his team has what it takes to make a serious run at a state title. With a strong core of returning players and some promising new additions, the team is looking to dominate on the field and bring home a championship. The team boasts seven returning starters, including juniors Brody Hayes and Cole Tadtman and seniors Carter Long, Tucker Jackson, Cole Pladson, Justin Wright, and Morgan Brumfield. These players have been together for a few years now and have developed a strong chemistry on and off the field, making them a formidable force to be reckoned with. While the team is strong in pitching and defense, Coach Bent emphasizes the importance of hitting well in order to truly succeed. This is something the team will be working on throughout the season, and with the dedication and hard work of the players, Coach Bent is confident they will see improvement in this area. In addition to their returning starters, the team also has a couple of promising juniors in Grady Pfizenmaier and Jace Weller, who can jump in and contribute when needed. This depth in their roster will be advantageous in challenging moments and give the team more options during games. As for leadership, the team does not have official captains, but if they did, Brody Hayes would fit the role perfectly. He is a vocal leader who also sets a great example both on and off the field. Coach Bent credits Hayes for his contagious energy and positive attitude, which helps motivate the team to excel. One of the things that sets the Clay Center High School baseball team apart is their tight-knit bond and sense of camaraderie. The players spend a lot of time together, both on and off the field, and this camaraderie carries over onto the diamond, keeping them united and focused on their goal of winning. Coach Bent also believes in getting to know his players on a personal level and fostering strong relationships with them. He challenges them to want to win just as much as he does and creates a contagious atmosphere within the team. This positive energy helps the younger players understand the team's winning mentality and motivates them to work hard. In addition to their regular season games, the team has added five more varsity games this year and scheduled matches against some tough and renowned teams to help prepare them for the post-season.