The crowd buzzes with energy as the sound of bats hitting the ball and players chanting from the dugout. But instead of coaches barking orders, it’s high school students running the show. For these teenage coaches, it’s more than just a game-it’s middle school madness.
“I coach because it’s a great experience,” junior Mason McConnell said. “We get to watch other players improve and see them grow as young men and people.”
Because Mansfield middle schools don’t have middle school baseball, the players receive their first opportunity to play for their schools. The high school players offer experience–they have the task of managing these middle schoolers and supporting them during new experiences.
“It’s these kids’ first time playing for their school,” junior Jake Jenkins said. “It’s an exciting time and with my little brother being on the team, I want to be there to support him and his teammates.”
Now that these players became coaches, they’re learning some of the challenges their own coaches face with them.
“It’s challenging sometimes because when they do the wrong things you can’t show them how to do it,” Jenkins said. “You just have to hope they listen to you.”
Still, they also get to experience some of the triumphs of baseball without being on the field like they’re used to.
“My favorite thing about coaching is when we get a big win,” Jenkins said. “Everyone gets excited and knowing you had something to do with it as a coach is a cool feeling.”
According to the athletes, coaching for the first time brings some new experiences and challenges, specifically with the age group they’re coaching.
“Sometimes I forget about the age gap between me and the players,” Jenkins said. “They can be immature and sometimes they can’t focus, but it’s my job to help with that.”
This tournament leads to more than just a trophy.The teams you’ll see will be the future of high school in Mansfield. Participating doesn’t just impact them currently, it leads to long-term relationships and team chemistry that stays with them forever.
“We want to get the kids better for their future,” McConnell said. “This tournament is just the start of maybe playing in college. It’ll build more chemistry between the players and will help each other learn their future teammates’ playstyles.”
