Spring Baseball at UHS

The New Year is here again, and the Urbana Tigers are in full stride to another season of spring baseball. Thrill and excitement fill the bodies of the athletes as the season inches closer to the tryout dates. The players, ranging from freshmen to seniors, have been in the weight room constantly since October 2011.

The young team hopes to move more toward success this season after suffering from a sub-five hundred record last year.

“We will try to improve on being more competitive,” second year head coach Mike Johnson said, “In doing this, we will create a everyday competitive atmosphere, whether it be practice or game time. This should lead to success and achievement.”
Last year, being Johnson’s first season, he knew that the players were young, and this would be a learning experience for him and the players, especially at the varsity level.

“The team has a lot of talent, and we just need to find ways to incorporate everyone’s skill to become a better team. These younger players can help a lot through experience on the field, essentially allowing them to learn as they go. Overall, I believe that we are making strides in the right direction,” said Johnson.

Junior Brian Summers was on the varsity team his sophomore year. Summers said, “[Last season] was a learning experience, especially playing against older and talented teams. But at the same time, I had a great time spending the season with friends playing a sport that I love.” Summers could improve and, he “would work more on becoming a team leader,” said Summers.

The returning varsity players from last season are anticipating on a good season and are energized to play with the upcoming players from the junior varsity team. Urbana fans and students hope to see great skill, a winning attitude and competitive spirit out of their players this upcoming season.