Highland High School's baseball team is gearing up for another exciting season, and Coach Zak Pizer is optimistic about their chances. With a strong focus on teamwork and discipline, Pizer and his coaching staff have been working hard to prepare the team for their ultimate goal of winning a Sectional championship and helping players reach the next level of their baseball careers.
So who are the key players to watch out for this season? According to Pizer, the top returning players from last season are Caden VanderMeyden, Caden Quigg, and Kirk Dapshis. VanderMeyden, a senior, dominated on the mound with the lowest ERA on the team. Quigg, also a senior, boasted the third-highest on-base percentage and was a top utility player. Dapshis, a junior, was a first-team all-conference player, ranking second in batting average and first in RBIs. These players have already proven their worth on the field and are expected to make a big impact this season.
But it's not just about individual talent for Coach Pizer. He believes that team chemistry and leadership are crucial for success. When asked about the qualities he looks for in team captains, Pizer mentions athletic ability and raw talent, but also emphasizes the importance of strong leadership skills and the ability to motivate and support their teammates. Pizer has identified Nate Phillips, a freshman, as a potential captain due to his athleticism and potential.
When it comes to team chemistry and camaraderie, Pizer believes that it starts with the team's leaders. He looks for players who can talk to their teammates and help them buy into the team's goals. Pizer also mentions that senior Caden Quigg is seen as a captain on the team, while VanderMeyden and Cash Washick are battling for the other captain role. With strong leaders and a united team, Pizer hopes to create a positive and supportive environment that will help the team reach its full potential.
Motivating players to push themselves to their full potential is another key aspect of Pizer's coaching philosophy. He believes that team bonding moments and dinners can help create a sense of unity and drive among the players. In addition, the team's training and conditioning program is also crucial for building physical and mental strength. Pizer acknowledges the importance of the mental aspect of the game and quotes Yogi Berra's famous phrase, "Baseball is 90 percent mental. The other half is physical."
However, preparing for this season has not been without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges for Pizer has been determining playing time for his players. With competition for positions, Pizer believes it is important for players to push each other and not become too comfortable. This will not only improve the team's overall performance but also create a sense of accountability among the players.
The team's schedule for this season includes some tough opponents, including Chesterton, a team that holds a special place in Highland's history as their coach was previously from Highland. Pizer also mentions the loss of over 130 innings from the bullpen, which means underclassmen will have the opportunity to step up and prove themselves on the varsity level.
Pizer's coaching style may differ slightly from previous seasons, as he has become more hands-on this year. As a first-year head coach last year, Pizer had to balance his coaching responsibilities with the arrival of his new baby. This year, he has leaned on his assistants and trusts them to help guide the team to success.
In terms of strengths and weaknesses, Pizer believes that the team's chemistry and discipline are their biggest strengths. However, the loss of experienced players and underclassmen being called up to the varsity team poses a challenge. To address this, Pizer has brought in a trainer who specializes in baseball lifting to improve the team's strength and conditioning.
Overall, Pizer's coaching philosophy centers around teamwork, discipline, and pushing players to reach their full potential. With a strong focus on mental and physical training, along with a united team, Highland High School's baseball team is well-equipped to take on their tough opponents and strive towards their goal of winning a Sectional championship. As Pizer and his team work towards success, it is clear that they have the determination, skills, and support system in place to accomplish their goals this season.
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