It is the start of 2023-24 Baseball season at Rock Island High School. A few athletes who were interviewed on the team have some insight on how they feel the season is going and what there is to look forward to. From teamwork amongst teammates to the changes overall, they are currently preparing because the Conference is right around the corner, and the boys are ready.
Baseball has been an important sport at Rocky for decades. While it is a sport that requires hard work and dedication, it never fails to be one of America’s favorite pastimes. Sophomore, Ayden Braud has many things to say involving his season. When asked, Braud said his favorite part of the season so far, has been, “I most enjoy the interactions with my teammates.” The connections you make amongst your team are important, especially when you will be on the same team for years while being in high school. Braud may only be a sophomore, but his talent is Varsity level. “The most rewarding part about being on Varsity would have to be the only Sophomore starting.” Lots of opportunities are reachable to the underclassmen on Varsity is people “Put in effort, and don’t waste an opportunity,” states Braud.
As some players are getting welcomed to the Varsity team, some players like Conner Diiulio are saying their goodbyes. Diiulio has collected many memories from his baseball career. “My favorite part about being on the team is getting to hangout and compete with guys I’ve played baseball with for years,” states Diiulio. As they experience many positives throughout the season, it requires the players to face challenges along the way. “I think that everyone dropping their egos, playing small ball, and playing with each other, instead of themselves is what changed this season for us. Even though this is Diiulio’s Senior season for the RIHS baseball team, he is still collecting memories and striving for more accomplishments. “Honestly, I’m looking forward to seeing where we end up in the Conference, and how the postseason plays out for us. We have the tools and players to make a good run in the postseason,”states Diiulio.
In conclusion, there are many things to come with this new season, the boys have been putting in hard work. So, only time will tell for the baseball team of the Rock Island Rocks. They might still face challenges, as well as experiencing losses and victories. But dedication is key, and the RIHS baseball team shows that they have all the dedication they need and more to spread throughout the 2023-24 baseball season.
