St. Mary’s Central High School Baseball Season Preview

As the St. Mary's Central High School baseball team gears up for their upcoming season, Coach Michael Feldman is determined to improve upon the fundamentals and develop a stronger approach at the plate. With a focus on consistency on the mound and a quick pace, the team is ready to take on any challenge that comes their way. The team is fortunate to have a talented group of returning players, including Connor Schatz (12) and Jacoby Grimm (11). Both players are versatile athletes who play multiple positions and are also the leaders of the team. Their experience and leadership will be crucial in setting the tone for the younger athletes. But it's not just about individual talent, Coach Feldman looks for specific qualities in potential team captains. This year, freshmen Camden Hase, Bennett Grimm, and Dylan Iverson have already shown their potential as leaders by stepping up on the varsity team as 8th graders. They have demonstrated grit and a strong work ethic, making them valuable assets to the team. Creating team chemistry and camaraderie is an important aspect of any successful team. Coach Feldman believes in the family dynamic within the team, where each member is accountable for their actions and works together towards a common goal. As the saying goes, "A family that plays together, stays together." But team chemistry is not the only thing that fuels a successful team. Coach Feldman also emphasizes the importance of pushing oneself to their full potential. He believes that the more the team prepares and practices as they would in a game, the easier the actual games will be. This mindset of hard work and dedication will be crucial in overcoming the challenges that come with a lack of experience and depth on the team this year. Speaking of challenges, the team will face a tough schedule this season with two conference doubleheaders per week and tough opponents in the state. However, Coach Feldman is confident in his coaching staff, with years of experience playing and coaching at various levels. Their focus on the fundamentals of fielding and hitting, and not overcomplicating the game, will be key in navigating through the tough schedule. The mental aspect of the game is also crucial for the team's success. With a "one play ahead" mentality, the team is constantly thinking about the next move and being mentally prepared for any situation on the field. This focus on the mental side of the game is a reflection of Coach Feldman's coaching philosophy, where the main goal is to not make the game harder than it already is. In terms of training and conditioning, the team has made improvements with the addition of a strength and conditioning coach at their school. This has not only benefited the baseball team but all the sports programs at St. Mary's Central High School. A strong and well-conditioned team is essential for success on the field. As with any team, there are strengths and weaknesses that need to be addressed. The youth of the team is seen as a strength by Coach Feldman, as it provides a great learning opportunity for the players and valuable game time at the varsity level. With this in mind, the team will focus on building on their strengths and improving upon their weaknesses throughout the season. At the end of the day, Coach Feldman's coaching philosophy is centered on the idea of valuing the youth of the program and using it as a learning experience for the team. The focus on fundamentals, mental preparation, and a strong work ethic will ultimately lead to success in the long run. With a dedicated coaching staff and a talented group of players, the St. Mary's Central High School baseball team is ready to take on the challenges of the upcoming season and make their mark on the field.