Flames stay connected during COVID-19 pandemic
Photo courtesy of Lee Flames.
The baseball season was cut short due to COVID-19, but the team is working hard to keep in touch and work on their game during this pandemic.
“Communication is key for any team, and even more so during this time,” stated Mark Brew, head coach of the men’s baseball team. “We have been communicating via Zoom, GroupMe and other methods. It’s important that we stay connected. Secondly, the academic delivery is different now, and we as a staff are trying to make sure our guys are staying on top of academics and have the necessary resources to take care of the academic requirements.”
The baseball team was off to a 14-9 record before the season was canceled. This was an improved start compared to last year’s 23-26 season.
“As a competitor and someone who loves the game of baseball, it has been very tough to deal with,” said Ryan Beamish, senior first baseman. “Our team was on a winning streak and really trending upward. All of a sudden, within a few days, our season was ended by something completely out of our control. But even more than the season ending, it was even tougher having to say goodbye to a lot of my teammates, some who went home and won’t come back and play next year.”
This experience has been sad for both players and coaches to say goodbye to each other, knowing some won’t return. Some players may choose not to accept the extra year of eligibility; others may choose to transfer schools.
“This team had grown close this year, and they clearly loved each other,” said Brew. “But first and foremost, we are just trying to make sure everyone and their families are safe.”
While away, the players are working hard to train and improve themselves for next season.
“I haven’t stopped working on getting better,” said fielder Thomas Zazzaro. “Although the season came to an abrupt ending, we still have to prepare for next year, and that starts now. We are bringing back a lot of key parts, and I believe we will have a great shot at this thing come next year.”
