As the new season approaches, Coach Perry Cunningham of Waynesburg Central High School is excited to lead his team to victory. With a strong group of returning players and some promising new additions, the team is determined to improve upon last year's performance and make a deep run in the postseason.
One of the biggest strengths of the team this year is their focus and attention to detail. Coach Cunningham emphasizes the importance of competing every day and having a strong work ethic. This mindset is instilled in the players and they are determined to push themselves to their full potential.
The top returning players from last season are Alex VanSickle, Derek Turcheck, Tyler Groves, Austin Surber, and Ethan Kiger. These players not only bring skill to the team, but they also possess great leadership qualities. VanSickle, a senior, is a polished hitter and a great athlete. Turcheck, also a senior, is a five-tool player and a leader on and off the field. Groves, a senior pitcher, will start off the season as the team's number one pitcher. Surber, a junior, is expected to hit towards the top of the lineup. And Kiger, a senior, is described as the "heartbeat" of the team.
In addition to these returning players, Coach Cunningham is also excited about the new players who will make an immediate impact on the team. These include Alex VanSickle, who was named 2024 All-State and is a polished hitter and leader, and Derek Turcheck, also named 2024 All-State and a five-tool player and leader. Tyler Groves, a senior, will start off the season as the team's number-one pitcher. Austin Surber, a junior, is expected to contribute to the team's offense, and Ethan Kiger, a senior, will play in the outfield and also pitch.
Team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial for a successful season, and Coach Cunningham plans on implementing this through accountability and a strong work ethic. He believes that the seniors and juniors, who have played together through the youth system, are familiar with each other and will set the tone for the rest of the team.
To motivate his players to push themselves to their full potential, Coach Cunningham focuses on the team's hunger for success. After falling short of their goals last season, the players are determined to work hard and improve upon their performance.
One of the biggest challenges in preparing for this season has been adapting to the differences between high school and college baseball, where Coach Cunningham spent the last 17 years. However, he is confident in his coaching abilities and is excited to get to know the players and lead them to victory.
The team's schedule for this season is yet to be determined, but Coach Cunningham is looking forward to facing tough opponents and is determined to give each game and opponent the proper respect. He believes that it is important to coach to the strengths of the team and not force a certain style that may not suit the players.
The mental aspect of the game is also crucial for the team's success. Coach Cunningham emphasizes the importance of being mentally tough and being able to deal with adversity in order to win big games.
As for changes or improvements to the team's training and conditioning program, Coach Cunningham believes in constantly evolving and adapting to what works best for the team. He believes that mental toughness and adaptability are key components in building a successful team.
With this being his first year as the head coach, Coach Cunningham's philosophy is centered around using the team's strengths to their advantage. The team's experience on the field, on the mound, and at the plate will be crucial to their success. He also hopes to help the team overcome their struggles in the postseason and make a deep run.
In conclusion, the team at Waynesburg Central High School has high hopes for the upcoming season. With a strong focus on competing every day, a talented group of players, and a determined coach, they are ready to take on any challenges that come their way and make a name for themselves in the postseason.
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