Hit after hit, out after out. Though scoring did not come as easily in a game with few base hits, FHC compensated by pitching their way to victory, 5-3 over Unity Christian.
“I really thought we had great pitching today,” head coach Thad Abel said. “[Junior] Marcus Gignac did a great job starting off pitching four innings and he had the win. Also, [sophomore] Aaron Schwark really came through for us, he pitched the next three innings. Ending the game, we had [junior] Taylor Thewes who also did well. Aaron got the hold, and Taylor got the save.”
Junior Paul Kersjes, Schwark, and senior Mick VanVossen all led the team today with solid hitting.
“We were all hitting the ball real well and would have scored more runs if some of our well hit balls dropped for hits. Sometimes you get unlucky,” junior Jonah Lakatos said. “Paul had some great base hits which was really good. Aside from hitting, Marcus threw a great game and Aaron and Taylor both helped the cause. I think we’re gaining momentum and will be a hard team to beat.”
Though pitching was key in the April 14 game, it was not only the pitchers who stepped up. After graduating eight players from the previous year, this years seniors have provided great leadership.
“The seniors, Jake Boles, Mick VanVossen, Drake Hoffman and Ben Coiner, have really helped out a lot,” Abel said. “There are only four of them, but those guys really do a great job of leading the team. This year we hope to win conference and districts, so with good playing and the great leadership we have, I think we can do it.”
Coming off a successful previous year, and also graduating many key players, many thought the team would not be able to live up to its past season. However, by continuing to win games and playing well together, FHC proves others wrong.
“We’re a young team, but we’re really meshing well as a team, and winning ballgames,” Abel said. “That’s what’s important.”
by Anna Wilner
