Strong swing, quick pitch, fast reflexes, eyes on the ball. These are the qualities that FHN varsity baseball coach assistant Mike Freedline has been searching for within the past week of tryouts.

“I’m excited to see what we can do this season,” Freedline said. “We have a strong group of seniors returning and stepping up to the plate.”

The season officially starts with the first game on March 18 at home, but players started preparing on Jan. 1 during winter workouts. The varsity coaches have high expectations and push their players to the max all throughout the season. The team is currently working hard to find a strong, starting pitcher and to improve their overall strength as a team.

“We do well with working together as a team,” senior varsity player Jacob Kalusniak said. “We need to improve on not worrying about who we’re playing because we have the talent to beat any team out there.”

The players are already anticipating competing in the Troy tournament on March 18. The varsity team has been practicing every day after school in preparation for this tournament, and FHN’s biggest baseball rivals, FHH and FHC. The boys have typically done well against these schools, but they’re powering through every hit and throw to secure each win.

“I look forward to winning and playing with everything I’ve got this season, no school is a match for us.” senior varsity player Jarrett O’Brien said.

The coaches plan on maintaining the title of GAC champs and carrying heavy momentum into districts at the end of the year. By improving fitness, keeping consistency and holding onto the team’s notorious teamwork, the varsity baseball program doesn’t doubt that they will have a strong year.

“We’ll be on top of all baseball programs if we keep up the good work.” Freedline said.