As Coach Erik Dial prepares for the upcoming baseball season at Mendham High School, he is confident in his team's ability to compete for the division, county, and state titles. With a strong group of returning players and promising new additions, the team is ready to take on any challenge that comes their way.
When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach Dial immediately mentions Sully Dunn and Ryan Turner. Both players have proven themselves on the field and have the potential to make a big impact this year. Dunn, a speedy outfielder, was the team's hottest hitter towards the end of last season and has impressive speed and power at the plate. Turner, a versatile player who can pitch, play the infield and hit, has already shown his potential in his first varsity start last year. These two players will play a key role in the team's success this season.
In addition to these returning players, Coach Dial also has high hopes for Max Orlins, Ajani Bowrin, Andrew Epitropakis, Ryan Nelson, Max Higgiston, and Matt Brennan. These players will bring a mix of talent and leadership to the team, making them strong candidates for team captains. Coach Dial looks for consistency in work ethic, inclusivity, and leadership in potential captains, and believes that these players possess those qualities.
Creating team chemistry and camaraderie is crucial for any successful team. Coach Dial plans on fostering this through team bonding activities and emphasizing the importance of supporting and encouraging each other on and off the field. He believes that a strong team dynamic will translate to better performance on the field.
When it comes to motivating his players to reach their full potential, Coach Dial focuses on teaching them the value of hard work and dedication. He also shows them the amount of effort and time professional athletes put into their craft, giving them perspective and inspiration to push themselves. He also stresses the importance of the mental aspect of the game, encouraging his players to play with confidence and without fear of failure.
Preparing for this season has come with its own set of challenges, as Mendham High School plays in the toughest division in the North Jersey Athletic Conference. However, Coach Dial and his team are ready to take on all their opponents, with a special focus on their rivals, West Morris Central. The team also has a highly anticipated game at TB Bank Park in Bridgewater, which Coach Dial believes will be a major highlight of the season.
This year, Coach Dial has incorporated a new approach to training for his players. The installation of a new weight room at the school has been beneficial for the team's physical strength and conditioning. Additionally, he has implemented "Motor Preferences" testing, which helps determine the most effective conditioning and mechanics for each individual player. This tailored approach will help each player reach their full potential and contribute to the team's success.
While the team may have a weakness in their youth, with the graduation of 14 seniors last year, Coach Dial sees this as an opportunity for growth. He believes that as the junior class merges with the senior class, their inexperience will quickly turn into strength and contribute to the team's overall success.
In conclusion, the Mendham High School baseball team is well-prepared for the upcoming season with a strong group of returning players, promising new additions, and a dedicated coach who prioritizes both the physical and mental aspects of the game. With high goals and a determination to succeed, the team is ready to compete and bring home some titles this season.
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