Shawnee Mission North High School Baseball Season Preview

As the new high school baseball season approaches, the Shawnee Mission North High School team is preparing for an exciting year under the leadership of Coach Rustin Jones. With a mix of returning players and new talent, the team is looking to make a strong impression in their competitive division. We sat down with Coach Jones to get a preview of the team and their plans for the upcoming season. When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach Jones highlights two standouts, Cash Messenger and Haiden Peterson. Both players bring a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. Messenger, a senior, was selected as a team captain for his strong work ethic and positive attitude on and off the field. He is known for his performance and ability to motivate his teammates. Peterson, also a senior, has been a key player for the team in the past and is looking to continue his success this season. Coach Jones praises his arm care and open gym practices, which have helped him develop into a top player. Looking at new players making an immediate impact, Coach Jones mentions Cale Fossett. A junior transfer from another school, Fossett brings a competitive edge to the team and is expected to make a big impact on the field. With strong potential and a drive to succeed, he adds depth to the team's roster. When it comes to selecting team captains, Coach Jones looks for players who possess qualities such as strong performance, a good work ethic, and a positive attitude. These qualities are essential for building team chemistry and camaraderie. Both Messenger and Peterson fit these criteria and are currently competing for the captain role, which speaks to their dedication and leadership on the team. Coach Jones understands the importance of team chemistry and camaraderie, which is why he plans to focus on these aspects throughout the season. He believes that a strong bond between teammates can create a winning culture and lead to success on the field. By promoting a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and open communication, he hopes to foster a sense of camaraderie among the players. To motivate his players to push themselves to their full potential, Coach Jones challenges them at practices. He believes that challenging his players in practice will prepare them for tough opponents and ultimately lead to success on the field. He also focuses on the mental aspect of the game, pushing his players to have a strong mindset and positive attitude towards their performance. However, preparing for this season has come with its own set of challenges.