By William Morgan
Baseball season has arrived and with it are the 2026 Federal Hocking Lancers. This year’steam is looking to capitalize off of the new talent and the skill as well as the older veteran experience of the senior class. There are high hopes going into this season for the Fed Hock Lancers they are looking to comeback from the slump that they have been in in the last two years with the 0-44 record this year they are hoping to win big and with the new leadership of Dominic Branch, Jake Amlin, and Kyle Grove. They are hoping to lead the team to high and prominent success throughout the season.
Branch is leading the charge for the lancers this season with high hopes for success
“I expect more team play and more team chemistry, as well as wins.”
Other coaches are also setting high standards and goals. For the team this year many believe that the lancers can achieve high success and accomplish great feats. The Lancers are taking things one at a time this year getting the proper reps in and pushing their limits to see how well they can perform practices that are three hours long with exceptions on irregular days. During this time the lancers are working hard and striving to accomplish their goals. It’s not just about the sports. Coach Amlin has a strategy.
“My motivation is to help prepare the student athletes to be successful adults and to build a program that we are proud to have in our community.”
The three coaches are all teaching the student athletes not only to win and work as a team not only on the field but out in the world as well. The players have high hopes for success and are looking to secure their first win in the last two years. Many are looking forward to the opportunity to break the cycle that has plagued the program. Many underclassmen are looking to be that light in the dark this year. Freshman Tristan McPherson is excited to join the team.
“It’s my first year of high school and I am looking to have a successful season and make positive memories along the way.”
Though there was struggle throughout the last couple years that never stopped the Federal Hocking fans and community from supporting and being there for the Lancers during the hardships, the bond of the community is strong. The Lancers strive to be a great team. Many of the upperclassmen are looking forward to success this year and coming back from the rough times that the last couple years brought to the program. They are looking for a positive change within FHbaseball.
“It’s my first time playing baseball and I already enjoy it very much and am looking forward to success, and being a positive impact on this team,” Senior Jrandon Mayle said.
Many of the older seniors are looking for a positive change within the culture. Senior Brody Rutter, who has been a part of the varsity baseball team all four years is looking to capitalize on this year.
“I am done losing. I want to be a part of a winning program that wants to win and has a positive mindset. I think that if we lock in then this year will go by very well.”
Hopes are high and the future is bright for this team, as they took their first win in the last two and a half years. Go, Lancers!
