As the Roncalli High School baseball team gears up for the 2025 season, head coach Tony Vittorio is excited about the potential of his team. With a strong group of returning players and some promising new additions, the Royals have their sights set on multiple championships this year. In this article, we will take a closer look at the team's top returning players, newcomers, and the strategies Coach Vittorio is implementing to lead his team to success.
The Royals have six returning starters and four returning pitchers, making for a solid foundation for the team. Coach Vittorio is particularly excited about the impact players from last season who will be returning this year. Collin Ash, a 2026 graduate, was a standout player last season with a .364 batting average, 7 doubles, 24 RBI, and 13 stolen bases.
He also proved to be a strong pitcher with a 4-2 record, 30 innings pitched, 47 strikeouts, and a 3.97 ERA. Sam Roeder, a 2025 middle infielder, also had a stellar season with a .451 batting average, 8 doubles, 33 runs, 18 RBI, and 22 stolen bases. Another key returning player is Nico Amodeo, a 2025 graduate who played both catcher and pitcher. He had a 1.50 ERA in five appearances last season.
Coach Vittorio has high expectations for the new players joining the team this year. One to watch is Luke Greene, a 2025 left-handed pitcher with a 3-1 record, 31.2 innings pitched, and 31 strikeouts last season. Infielder Gio Ardizzone, a 2027 graduate, is also expected to make an immediate impact with his strong defensive skills.
Johnny Jaffe, a 2025 first baseman, had an impressive .414 batting average and 13 RBI in his last season, and outfielder Rudy Schoettle had a .297 batting average, 4 extra-base hits, and 18 stolen bases in 2025. Other newcomers include Will Manship, Maddox Haworth, and Daylan Powers, who all had strong performances in their last season.
Leadership is crucial for any successful team, and Coach Vittorio has identified three potential team captains for this season. Luke Roeder, Aiden Hartman, and Gio Ardizzone, all sophomores, are all in the running for this role. Coach Vittorio looks for players who demonstrate qualities such as dedication, hard work, and strong communication skills when selecting team captains.
Team chemistry and camaraderie are essential for a successful team, and Coach Vittorio emphasizes the importance of these qualities. He believes that leaders are at their best when they are needed on and off the field, in the classroom, and in the community. This season, senior Rudy Schoettle and junior Collin Ash will be leading by example and setting the tone for the team.
To push his players to their full potential, Coach Vittorio focuses on winning in the present moment, both in practice and on the field. He believes that success in the present leads to long-term success and unity within the team. He also encourages his players to set goals and work towards them consistently. This year, the Royals have their sights set on winning multiple championships, including conference, county, sectional, regional, semi-state, and state.
Like any team, the Royals have faced challenges in preparing for this season. With the unpredictable weather in Indiana, Coach Vittorio and his team have had to be flexible and adaptable in their training and game schedules. However, they have stayed true to their approach, focusing on fundamentals and the process of improvement.
The Royals have a competitive schedule, with a mix of teams they may face in regional play and beyond. Coach Vittorio's coaching style remains consistent, with an upbeat and intense approach to the game. He believes that passion is essential for success in the field.
The mental aspect of the game is crucial for the Royals, and Coach Vittorio works to instill a sense of mental toughness in his players. He believes that having a positive mindset and staying focused are key to overcoming challenges and achieving success. The team's training and conditioning program has also been a focus, with Coach Vittorio emphasizing its importance in achieving success on the field.
According to Coach Vittorio, the team's strengths lie in their offensive and baserunning approach. However, there is room for improvement in their defense, which they will be focusing on this season. With consistent effort and focus, the Royals hope to build upon their strengths and improve their weaknesses.
As Roncalli High School's baseball team prepares for the 2025 season, there is a sense of excitement and determination in the air. With a strong group of returning players, promising newcomers, and a dedicated coaching staff, the Royals are poised for success. As they work towards their goals of winning multiple championships, Coach Vittorio and his team are staying focused, consistent, and mentally tough. This season is sure to be an exciting one for the Roncalli Royals.
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