April 16, 2024
By Isabella Apple
Staff Writer
Spring began with athleticism, excitement and travel for 20 members of the baseball team.
Its varsity players and some junior varsity players competing for spots on varsity attended the team’s annual spring training, which took place in Fort Pierce, Florida from March 20-25.
Senior Michael Rizzo, who has been on varsity for three years, said the trip gave the players a chance to hone their skills, strengthen their communication and prepare for the upcoming season.
“While it seems like a vacation, we [were] there to work. We [were] extremely lucky to have the opportunity to practice and compete in the Florida weather,” Rizzo said.
During the trip, LHS played six games against six schools spanning four states. Even though the athletic aspect of spring training was intense, Rizzo said it was fun and an incredible bonding experience.
Rizzo said he hopes to make the most of his senior season.
“I am looking to be the best leader and player that I can be on and off the field,” Rizzo said.
“This trip made us more connected. It made us understand one another and each other’s capabilities.”
Like Rizzo, senior Matteo Morelli, who has been on varsity for three years, said the players’ experiences at spring training will contribute to the team’s success.
“This trip made us more connected. It made us understand one another and each other’s capabilities,” Morelli said.
He said to be successful, the team needs to continue strengthening its weaknesses.
“I believe we need to improve on working as a team instead of focusing on individual stats,” Morelli said.
Junior Shawn Bellenger, who has been on varsity for three years, said this season he wants the team to win a league championship, and he intends to contribute to that goal by strengthening his skills.
“The most I want to improve upon is my pitching and my ability to produce outs on the mound,” Bellenger said.
He said spring training in Florida will pay off in the results of the team’s games.
“The trip only made our team closer with one another, and that benefits our play throughout the season,” Bellenger said.
As of April 15, the team’s record was 4-4.
