Coach expects aggressive play, plus faster lineup

Coach Mac Hurley is only returning two seniors to his starting lineup this year, but a strong offseason has Hurley excited about his squad. “We lost one of our top pitchers, senior Keaton Hixon, due to injury,” Hurley said. “We are very excited and have high expectations for this group. The kids work hard and play for each other as a team — probably one of the closest teams I’ve had in my career.” Hurley has been coaching for 19 years, six of those at Lake Hamilton. “I think this year’s team will be a more aggressive, better offensive team,” Hurley said. “We don’t have that ace on the mound but five to six pitchers who will give us quality innings, pitching to contact. We want to play more aggressive on defense. We want to get off the field in less that 12 pitches each inning. Offensively, I think we will be a faster team than in the past. The lineup will be better offensively, as a unit.” The team did not post a winning record last year, but that’s not uncommon in the 6A. Still, this year, the team wants more, the coach said. “We never really got in a groove last season due to injuries and a few mishaps,” Hurley said. “This year, the kids are hungry. They are more focused on the task at hand. They have worked extremely hard and have a hard-nosed attitude and work ethic.” Hurley will look to his seniors to provide leadership and keep everyone on track this year. “I expect my seniors, Tanner King and Utah Aitken, to be my leaders this year,” he said. “Both have big bats and play solid defense. Both have a lot of experience — Aitken a three-year starter and King a two-year starter.” The Wolves are looking ahead with a strong team-first attitude, and the coaches are excited to see where the team can end up at the end of the season, Hurley said. “Our bunch has the best chemistry that I have had since I’ve been here,” he said. “The kids care about the game and each other. They all have a great bond and have fun each day. I’m very proud of that. We are very blessed to be at Lake Hamilton. We have great support from our administration and parents, and we are looking forward to the season.”