The Enterprise High School baseball team is gearing up for another exciting season, and Head Coach Marty Lovrich is confident that this year's team has what it takes to make it to the top. With 11 returning seniors and a strong pitching depth, the team is setting its sights on an Area and State Championship.
Leading the team on the field are two standout players, Brady Richardson and Mike Vanderheyden. Richardson, who has committed to Troy State University, is the starting shortstop and number one pitcher. He is known for his athleticism and competitive spirit, consistently throwing a fastball in the high 80s to low 90s and commanding his curveball, slider, and changeup. As a sure-handed shortstop, he also sets the tone for the team's offense as their lead-off hitter.
Vanderheyden, who has committed to the University of Houston, is a three-year starter as the team's catcher and second hitter. He has already made a huge impact this season with four home runs and his ability to get on base. He also controls the opposing team's running game and serves as a leader for the pitching staff.
When it comes to choosing team captains, Coach Lovrich looks for players who exhibit strong leadership qualities both on and off the field. This year, Brady Richardson and Mikey Vanderheyden were chosen as captains for their exemplary work ethic and dedication to the team. They lead by example, being the first ones to show up for practice and always putting the team's success before their personal goals. As A-students, they also serve as role models for their teammates and are sure to be successful at the next level.
To build team chemistry and camaraderie, Coach Lovrich relies on the leadership of his team captains and the selflessness of his players. He believes that a successful team is made up of players who put the team's success above their own personal goals. With a roster of 22 players, Coach Lovrich makes sure to keep everyone engaged and find a role for each player to contribute to the team's success.
Despite some challenges in preparation for the season, such as inclement weather and limited practice space, the team is determined to push through and succeed. Coach Lovrich sets achievable goals for his players and emphasizes the importance of each player's role in the team's success. He also stresses the mental aspect of the game, reminding his players that baseball is a game of failures and they must be mentally tough to overcome challenges.
When it comes to the team's schedule, Coach Lovrich has put together a competitive lineup with tough opponents such as Auburn High School, Dothan High School, Mosley High School from Florida, and Fairhope High School. These teams have all had success in the past, and the Enterprise High School team is looking forward to facing them and proving themselves on the field.
Coach Lovrich's coaching style remains consistent year after year, focusing on playing the game the right way and holding players accountable. He also recognizes the importance of the mental aspect of the game and ensures that his players stay sharp and resilient through the ups and downs of the season.
One of the biggest strengths of this year's team is their pitching and defense, thanks to the hard work of Pitching Coach and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator, Micah Henderson. Coach Henderson has implemented a baseball-specific training and conditioning program that has helped the players improve their physical fitness and performance on the field. However, Coach Lovrich acknowledges that there is always room for improvement, particularly in situational hitting and executing the little things offensively.
Overall, Coach Lovrich's coaching philosophy is reflected in his team's gameplay. He emphasizes the importance of strong leadership, selflessness, and mental toughness, all of which are evident in the way his team plays on the field. With a talented group of players and a dedicated coaching staff, the Enterprise High School baseball team is poised to make a run for the Area and State Championships this year.
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