By Theresa O’Connor 

   Seven innings. Less than two hours. The daunting words of “strike THREE.” These factors contribute to the levels of pressure faced by the Tempe Prep high school baseball team at each game this season. But despite the immense pressure put upon such a small team, the players are willing to put in hard work and commitment to enhance their abilities throughout the season.

   Returning for his third year coaching Tempe Prep baseball is Head Coach Brad Sullivan. Coach Sullivan initially coached basketball and baseball at Valley Christian High School, where he was at for 10 years. He says that this year, Tempe Prep’s baseball team has 10 “focused and highly motivated” athletes who have the ability to play multiple positions. Because of the team’s minimal size, its players must maintain readiness to play these different positions. Through this readiness, they will be able to have flexibility in any given circumstance during a game. 

   To prepare for their upcoming games, the baseball players are practicing basic skills in repetition to refine their technique. Junior Jack Sayer says, “We work hard and get better each week. We work on our defense and hitting every day.” Due to their repetitive drills, the team will become more consistent in pitching, hitting, and fielding. Coach Sullivan says these drills are followed by game-like situational scenarios which allow the players to apply their flexibility in practices. 

   In addition to specific drills, Coach Sullivan also integrates his own values into practices and games, expected to be upheld by each and every player on the team. “The basic core belief of any program I’m coaching is respect,” Coach Sullivan says. “Respect for your opponent, respect for your teammates and respect for the game.”

   The baseball team is looking forward to making major improvements this year along with utilizing the new TPA Athletic Performance Center. “We will be using the athletic center in the off-season to keep our arms strong and healthy,” senior Jacob Dendy says. 

   With a focused attention on certain skill areas, there is no doubt that the athletes will learn and grow during the season. Coach Sullivan says, “This year we are being more intentional with our hitting and offensive skill development and we expect that to play a big part in our success going forward.”

   The team’s next game is scheduled for Mar. 11 at 4 p.m. against Hayden High School.