Throughout program history, the varsity baseball team triumphed to two state titles during the 2006 and 2015 seasons. Since then, the Firebirds have gotten close to their past success, but have fallen short.

The program remains a powerhouse in the state, winning three regional championships in a row. The Firebirds are ranked sixth in class 6A per Kansas Sports Central, seeding behind Mill Valley. According to assistant coach Matt Hill, this year, players and coaches alike are poised to make a strong push with their eyes firmly set on the state championship.

“[Last year] was a good year finishing third,” Hill said. “It’s nothing to be upset about, but after two years, we want to move past that third place and hopefully win a championship.”

Reflecting on how the season unfolded last year, junior RHP Ben Graves said that there was some frustration in the dugout after consecutive third place state finishes; however, he said the team is remaining focused on their long-term goals, using the past seasons’ results as motivation.

Returning production from last year, the team is equipped with a set of experienced hitters and pitchers. The squad features eleven seniors, four juniors and three sophomores.

Hill said that the roster’s experience comes from a group of dedicated players who have played the sport during the summer and fall. Many of them play club baseball in the off-season, which Hill says puts the team on a competitive edge.

Senior catcher Andrew Zimmerschied also said the senior leadership will help instill the team’s culture in younger players. Zimmerschied and Hill added that fostering a strong sense of work ethic will be key to the team’s success.

“You’ve always looked up to those seniors to guide you … being able to help those younger guys know what they’re doing is going to be irreplaceable this year in our success, ” Zimmerschied said.

With the firm goal and competitive morale cultivated with this team during the preseason, they are set to play a series of 25 games in the Sunflower League and a few out-of-state schools namely from Oklahoma and South Dakota over the course of a lengthy season.

“Our program is built on good morals and a winning foundation,” Zimmerschied said. “ Our coaches know how to get the job done.”