Head coach Ryan Hathaway is preparing for another season at the helm of the Fredericktown baseball team, with a focus on hard work, attention to detail, and player development.
Hathaway's enthusiasm for coaching began early in his life and developed further during his playing career at the University of Charleston. After spending three years coaching at Ohio Wesleyan University, he returned to Fredericktown as head coach. "I knew from a very early age that I wanted to coach," Hathaway said. "I’m very happy my coaching career led me back to Fredericktown."
As the new season approaches, Hathaway is eager to witness his players' progress. According to him, an increased emphasis on offseason workouts and strength training has laid a solid foundation. "We spent more time in the summer and offseason training than ever before," he said. He noted that many players were thrust into varsity action last year before they were fully prepared, which is common in smaller schools. This year, however, he hopes their attitude and attention to detail will yield positive results.
Two players expected to make significant contributions are Carter Mull and Kaine Sheriff. Mull was recognized as a second-team Knox Morrow Athletic Conference (KMAC) selection last season and aims to build on that success. Sheriff will lead the pitching staff, with both players taking on leadership roles within the team.
Hathaway derives motivation from observing his players' growth in both mechanics and mindset. "Their focus on improvement has us excited to see where we’ll be by the end of the season," Hathaway said.
