The varsity baseball team finished its season May 22, ending with a 7-13 record following a 9-8 loss in the first round of the postseason tournament against Beecher High School. 

Luke Zavala, head coach, noticed an increased presence of underclassmen on higher levels of the team.

“We saw a lot of development from some of our younger players,” he said. “We really only had four seniors in the lineup, and so we had a lot of underclassmen that saw a lot of varsity time this year.”

Coach Zavala noted that the lack of a field to use at U-High created challenges in finding ways to practice and locations to host games.

“Trying to schedule practices when we don’t have an actual field can be unique,” he said. “We’re sharing spaces. We’re trying to utilize the places that we can to be able to have the best practices that we can. That can always be a little bit of a challenge.”

Sophomore Bryce Kenny, a varsity catcher and pitcher, wishes there was more appreciation for the dedication that goes into the sport.

“We really put in the work, even though not everybody sees it,” he said. “Sometimes in the off-season beforehand, always working in the mornings, in the gym all the time. Just always working hard towards our accomplishments, even if they don’t always show.” 

Bryce noticed the impact his discipline in baseball has had on his wider work ethic.

“I learned how important hard work is,” he said. “Even last year, I knew that I had to work hard, but it fell mostly on the coaches. Now I’m realizing how important that is.” 

Despite some of the disadvantages the team faces, Coach Zavala admires the players’ determination.

“We have some of the hardest-working kids in the school,” he said. “I think the challenges of playing baseball here make it unique for the kids that are willing to put in the work year-round. It’s really to be commended.”