As the new baseball season approaches, fans and players alike are eager to see what the Leetonia High School team has in store. After a few years of struggling to reach a .500 record, Coach James Scragg is determined to turn things around and lead his team to success. In an exclusive interview, Coach Scragg shared his thoughts on the returning players, new additions to the team, and his plans for the upcoming season.
When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach Scragg highlighted the senior class. Ryan Bulford, CJ Faulkner, Carson Brock, Brayden Earl, Evan Rosko, and Will Henderson are all returning seniors who bring experience and leadership to the team. According to Coach Scragg, their dedication and hard work on and off the field make them special. These players have shown a strong commitment to improving their skills and are determined to help the team reach their goal of a .500 record.
In addition to the returning seniors, Coach Scragg also mentioned Aiden Hunter, Joey McGath, and Ethan Mathia as potential team captains. When selecting team captains, Coach Scragg looks for players who possess qualities such as leadership, dedication, and a positive attitude. These players will not only lead by example but also motivate and support their teammates during challenging times. As the season progresses, Coach Scragg will closely observe these players and make a final decision on team captains.
Team chemistry and camaraderie play a significant role in a team's success. Coach Scragg believes that having a strong bond and trust among players is crucial. To promote team chemistry, he has selected Ryan Bulford, Carson Brock, and CJ Faulkner as team leaders. These players have shown great potential in bringing the team together and lifting their spirits during tough times.
Motivation is key to pushing players to reach their full potential. Coach Scragg understands the importance of keeping his players motivated and has come up with creative ways to do so. One such way was a Bowl A Thon, where players had a fun night out while also raising money for the team. This not only helped the team bond but also instilled a sense of responsibility and pride in the team.
Preparing for a new season always comes with its challenges, and for Coach Scragg, the biggest challenge has been providing positive criticism to his players. While it is essential to point out areas of improvement, Coach Scragg believes in also highlighting the things his players are doing right. He believes that this approach helps build confidence and motivates players to work harder.
When asked about the team's schedule for the upcoming season, Coach Scragg emphasized the importance of staying healthy and keeping their arms strong. With tough opponents like Columbiana and United, as well as league rivals, the team will need to be at their best to come out on top. Coach Scragg is looking forward to these challenging games and believes they will help the team grow and improve.
When it comes to his coaching style, Coach Scragg understands the importance of adapting and evolving each season. While he maintains his core principles, he also takes into consideration the strengths and weaknesses of his team and adjusts accordingly. This year, he plans on focusing on mental toughness and instilling a winning mentality in his players.
Coach Scragg also mentioned some changes and improvements made to the team's training and conditioning program. For the first time, the weight room has a designated section for baseball players. This will allow them to focus on specific exercises and drills to improve their skills and overall strength. Coach Scragg believes that these changes will benefit the team and help them succeed on the field.
In terms of strengths and weaknesses, Coach Scragg believes that the team's senior leadership and experience are their greatest assets. However, he also acknowledges that the team needs to work on their mindset and not let past losses affect their performance. With a stronger emphasis on mental toughness and a dedicated training program, Coach Scragg is confident that the team will build on their strengths and improve their weaknesses.
In conclusion, the Leetonia High School baseball team is gearing up for a successful season under the leadership of Coach James Scragg. With a strong core of returning seniors, new additions to the team, and a focus on team chemistry and mental toughness, the team is poised to achieve its goal of a .500 record. Fans and players alike can look forward to an exciting and competitive season ahead.
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