By Chris Bennett
Correspondent
Here’s hoping the rebuilding project that is the Elkhorn Area High School baseball team nets more than five wins this season.
Last season no question existed that the Elks, under the tutelage and guidance of first-year coach Jon Anzalone, were in the process of figuring out what it took to win and be successful at the varsity level.
The program went back to square one and emphasized fundamentals – not only those associated with playing, but also those expectations associated with being a high school varsity athlete.
Anzalone and staff talked about character and commitment as much as they did using the proper batting stance and hitting cut-off men.
The talk of positive attitude and energy netted the Elks just one more win last season from 2014. Elkhorn went 5-17 overall in 2015 after finishing 4-16 in 2014.
The Elks’ record in the Southern Lakes Conference improved in 2015. Elkhorn finished 2-10 and in eighth place in the SLC last season after going winless in conference play in 2014.
A bloop single in the bottom of the seventh inning June 2 at Oregon in a WIAA Division 1 regional semifinal game ended the Elkhorn Area High School baseball team’s 2015 season.
The infield hit allowed Oregon to score its only run of the game, and the Panthers beat the Elks 1-0.
The Elks last won a playoff game in 2011. Elkhorn beat Racine Horlick 14-13 in a WIAA Division 1 regional semifinal game May 31 at home.
The Elks opened their 2016 season Tuesday at home against Clinton, and play Racine Park today at home. Both non-conference games were played at Elkhorn Area High School. The Elks open SLC play April 5 at Waterford.
Returning starters for Elkhorn include Dylan Peterson and Patrick Glogovsky in the outfield, catcher/second baseman Lucas Harding and pitcher/third baseman Brandon Komar.
“The returning starters showed promise and leadership last season,” Anzalone said. “It’s anticipated they will pick-up where they left off, with great attitudes and great effort.”
Anzalone said several juniors are expected to contribute, including shortstop Jet Weber, outfielder Ian Nowell, pitcher/infielder Jordan VanDyke, and pitcher/infielder Ross Ingersoll.
“The junior class is a group that’s worked hard and continues to work hard,” Anzalone said. “Great kids, with great work ethic and selflessness. I’m confident these kids will prepare daily to meet the challenges ahead.”
Juniors Kyle Gosh and Ben McConnell and senior jack Keller will contribute in a pitching and utility capacity, Anzalone said.
Anzalone said he expects Burlington and Waterford to be strong in the SLC. Waterford is the defending conference champion. After those two teams, Anzalone said, the SLC could be up for grabs.
