As the new baseball season approaches, all eyes are on the Sweet Springs High School team. After a successful season last year, expectations are high for the team to continue its growth and success. We had the opportunity to speak with Coach Sean Lock about his team and their prospects for the upcoming season. Coach Lock has been with Sweet Springs for the past two years and has already made a significant impact on the team, leading them to their first double-digit win season in 10 years and their first district win in the same amount of time.
When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach Lock emphasizes the importance of teamwork and contributions from all players. However, he does mention a few standout players who have the potential to make a big impact this season. These players include Drayton Hampton, Ty Murphy, Bryer Fowler, Joey Rapp, Jason Gonzalez, and Levi Hinck. Each player brings a unique set of skills and strengths to the team, making them special in their own way.
One of the new players expected to make an immediate impact on the team is sophomore Drayton Hampton. Coach Lock describes him as a leader on the field with a high motor and strong baseball IQ. Hampton plays multiple positions including pitcher, catcher, and shortstop, and was a key player in the team's success last season. Other new players who will be competing for playing time and contributing to the team's success are Ty Murphy, Bryer Fowler, Joey Rapp, and Jason Gonzalez.
Team chemistry and camaraderie are essential for a successful team, and Coach Lock knows this. He mentions the importance of having players who are mentally tough and able to lead by both example and word. These qualities are crucial for potential team captains, and Coach Lock believes that Ty Murphy, Drayton Hampton, Bryer Fowler, Joey Rapp, and Jason Gonzalez are all strong candidates for the role.
In terms of motivation, Coach Lock believes in setting goals and keeping the team accountable for achieving them. The team practices a lot and also has team meals and meetings where they discuss both team and personal goals. This approach has been successful in pushing players to reach their full potential and improve both individually and as a team.
Preparing for the upcoming season has not been without its challenges. The team has had to deal with bad weather, leading to indoor practices that can only do so much. However, Coach Lock remains optimistic and believes that the team will be prepared for the season despite the obstacles.
Looking at the team's schedule, Coach Lock acknowledges that they have some tough opponents, but he also sees it as an opportunity for the team to compete and prove themselves. The team's conference is particularly challenging, with teams like Concordia, St. Paul, Lone Jack, Crest Ridge, and Wellington. These are the games that Coach Lock is looking forward to the most, as he believes they will be a test for his team and a chance to measure their growth and progress.
When it comes to coaching style, Coach Lock mentions that he wants to see the team improve on their 10-14 record from last year and make it a winning season. He is focused on competing against tough opponents and helping his team reach their full potential. Coach Lock also mentions that he and his assistant coach, Kevin Hicks, have been working together to build a strong program for the younger players, investing in their development to ensure a bright future for the team.
One significant change this season is the focus on the mental aspect of the game. Coach Lock believes that being mentally strong is crucial for both success and failure in baseball and in life. He wants his players to not only become strong baseball players but also strong-minded men who can make a difference in the world. This focus on the mental game is a reflection of Coach Lock's coaching philosophy and is evident in the team's gameplay.
The team's strengths lie in their young age and the potential for playing together for years to come. They also have a strong emphasis on speed and base running, utilizing their fast players to put pressure on the opposing team's defense. However, Coach Lock acknowledges that the team still has room for improvement, particularly in making routine plays and reducing mistakes.
In terms of training and conditioning, the team has been adding more equipment each year, thanks to the support of the administration and staff. Coach Lock also mentions the importance of investing in the younger players and building a strong program for the future.
The Sweet Springs High School baseball team has high hopes for the upcoming season, and Coach Sean Lock is confident in his team's ability to compete and continue their growth. With a young and talented group of players, a focus on the mental aspect of the game, and a strong emphasis on teamwork, the team is poised for success. We look forward to seeing what this team can accomplish this season and in the years to come.
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