Ellinwood High School Baseball Gears Up for a Promising Season

As the Ellinwood High School varsity baseball team prepares for the upcoming season, Head Coach Roger Ward remains focused on fostering competitiveness and structure within the program. Now entering his third year at the helm, Coach Ward has set clear goals: continual improvement, team cohesion, and maintaining a winning mentality. His approach emphasizes player development and challenges each athlete to push their limits every day.  

Key Returners Lead the Charge

Ellinwood will benefit from the return of several standout players, each bringing a unique skill set to the team. Senior Campbell Coleman, a Second Team All-State selection, is a formidable presence at the plate from the left side. Junior Drake Hosman will anchor the shortstop position for the third consecutive season while also contributing significantly on the mound and as a base-running threat. Sophomore Trace Tudor, a talented left-handed pitcher, made an immediate impact as a freshman and is expected to elevate his offensive game this year. Another sophomore, Cohen Gunn, will lead the outfield and provide a strong presence at the top of the batting order while also being a key contributor on the mound.  

New Talent on the Rise

While the exact contributions of newcomers remain uncertain, Coach Ward is optimistic about a group of four to five freshmen who possess versatility and could play multiple positions. As the season unfolds, their development and integration into the team will be crucial in bolstering the squad’s depth.  

Building Leadership and Team Chemistry

Leadership is a cornerstone of Coach Ward’s philosophy, and he prioritizes players who lead by example and maintain consistency within the team structure. While two seniors are the leading candidates for captaincy, he stresses that leadership is not exclusive to upperclassmen. Team chemistry is another focus, with the coaching staff emphasizing trust and accountability among players. Ward believes this year’s squad has the potential to showcase the best chemistry since he took over the program.  

Motivation and Mental Resilience

A strong mental approach is essential to Ellinwood’s success. Coach Ward frequently challenges his players to self-reflect on their effort levels and encourages them to embrace failure as a learning tool. He also implements game-like scenarios in practice to better prepare his athletes for high-pressure situations.  

Challenges and Season Outlook

One of the biggest hurdles for the team is getting players into baseball shape, especially given the multi-sport nature of student-athletes in small towns. Some players pick up a bat just days before the first practice, requiring a rapid adjustment period. Despite this, Ellinwood is determined to be ready for a competitive schedule, which includes early-season matchups against tough opponents like Hoisington and TMP.  

A Slightly Adjusted Coaching Approach

Having spent much of his career in college baseball, Coach Ward has learned to tailor his coaching style to high school athletes, recognizing that not all players aspire to continue the sport beyond this level. While maintaining high expectations, he has adjusted his approach to alleviate pressure while still holding players accountable. With a strong core of returning talent, promising newcomers, and an emphasis on team chemistry and mental toughness, Ellinwood High School’s varsity baseball team is poised for an exciting and competitive season.