OAKWOOD CHRISTIAN EAGLES
Last Year: 3-4 overall, 0-4 in GAPPS Div. I-A
Head Coach: Kraig Givens (14th season) Assistant Coaches: Matthew McDonough, David Tindell, Sr.
Givens has built the Eagles’ program from the ground floor, but the fruits of his labor are starting to develop. OCA has an ever-improving roster of players that has continued to gain experience and skill and the team could challenge for its first state playoff spot in 2023.
You’ve developed the OCA baseball program from the ground up. In your opinion, what’s been the biggest or most important thing you’ve been able to implement within this program?
Givens: “I think the biggest thing is helping them to realize they are in charge of their own growth. Understanding that it takes hard work. Helping them to see that their mistakes or inabilities are nobody’s fault but their own. Our focus has been ‘ you don’t have the right to be angry or frustrated if you don’t put in the work’. If you don’t put in the work then any mistake you make or inability you have is your work on display.”
What is the strength of this year’s team, or what do you think it will be by the time the race for the playoffs really starts to heat up?
Givens: “I think a big strength for our guys is their love for the game and their teammates. Last year, that really started to come together at the end of the season and it made the difference.”
What is the key or keys to the season for your team?
“The key to our success will be pitching. If we can develop one or two more guys with durability on the mound, we will be at our best.”
The team does not expect to have any seniors on its roster this spring.