First-time head coach Sam Michel brings renewed optimism to Highland High School’s baseball program. Though new to the role, Michael is hardly a newcomer; this marks his eighth season on staff and his 12th year in coaching overall.
Under his turf, the Trojans aim to build on last year’s success, when Highland won its first sectional title since 2000 before losing in the regional to the eventual state champion. Michel, a longtime local coach who has worked with players from Little League to varsity, said offseason preparation and young pitching talent will be key to the team’s performance.
“Last couple seasons, we graduated a ton of pitching, about 300 innings combined between the two senior classes,” Michel said. “We do have a lot of young pitching talent that I’m really excited about.”
On keeping the team connected in the offseason, Michel explained that he schedules more games on weekdays, leaving the rest of the week open so players can compete elsewhere as much as they choose.
“I try to play more Monday through Thursdays now and avoid Friday through Sunday and let those guys go play as much as they need to, as much as they feel is necessary,” he said.
