The Hillers are ready to take the field this year for another successful season. They will look to build off of their winning ways from last year where they made the playoffs. They took a hard-fought 1-0 loss to Pine Richland in the first round but look to go even further this season. Their goal this year is to improve from last year and win their conference, then WPIAL, and, ultimately, States.
Senior Leo Carder spoke to the quality of the group this year: “The team is absolutely stacked, and we got a crazy good group this year.”
This year the Head Coach is Jon Stack, aided by assistant coaches Jason VanKirk, Brandon Robaugh and history teacher Mr. Polansky. The captains are Seniors Jonah Williamson, Derek Falvo and Zach Schrader.
The Hillers play their home games at Ross Memorial Park at 7 p.m. The JV plays at Trinity South Elementary School. The boys usually play their conference games on Monday and Tuesday while they play their other non-conference games on other days throughout the week.
VanKirk stressed the benefits of playing baseball for the Hillers: “Baseball teaches you a lot of life lessons and it is America’s pastime.”
The Hillers started their season by traveling to Myrtle Beach on March 19-22. Any player who made the varsity team, as well as any other junior or senior on the JV team, went on this trip.
The sport of baseball is dearly loved both in and outside of the team.
Senior Jase Hartley spoke on what he loves about the sport: “My favorite part of playing baseball is being able to play baseball with my friends. I also love being able to play under the lights.”
A huge part of being on the team is the environment and the overall attitude of the team. Both players and coaches emphasize how everybody on the team supports each other.
Vankirk also spoke on the attitude of the team: “As a coach, my favorite part is showing up every day for a group that is ready to work. We have a special group of student athletes.”
Another important part of baseball is the fans’ impact on the team and the game.
“It is super important for fans to be at the games, and that’s probably the biggest way they can support us,” Hartley expressed.
Lastly the coaches are incredibly thankful for the support the baseball team gets.
“I want to give a huge thank you to the School District and the Athletic Department for their overall support of the baseball program and these student athletes,” Stack conveyed.
Be sure to support the Hillers at Ross Memorial Park for their home games and cheer them on loud and proud!
