Nearing the end of the season, North Harford baseball has positioned itself firmly in winning territory. After last year’s memorable “blonde brigade,” the Hawks are hoping for another deep postseason run — ideally without the bleach this time around.
Senior Collin Kight is confident the team can keep its momentum. “I hope that we can get to regionals again, and maybe even states too,” he says. Junior Nathaniel Burd shares that ambition. “I’m looking forward to [making] another run deep into the playoffs but trying to get a state championship this time.”
With last year’s success still fresh, expectations are high. “There is a set standard that we will go all the way,” Burd adds. Junior Jedd Carll remains optimistic despite the pressure: “It will all be okay in the end.”
For many players, the best part of the season has been the team chemistry. Kight says his favorite thing is “playing and having fun with the team.” Carll agrees, simply adding, “Having fun with the team.” Burd values the atmosphere the most: “The team atmosphere and when all the boys are getting along, on and off the field.” Junior Luke Gantt echoes that sentiment. “I enjoy the team connection that we have, and it makes it fun every day going out on the field,” he says.
Gantt, a new addition to the varsity roster, has quickly made his mark — including one of the lowest ERAs in the state. He explains what the season has been like so far as a new pitcher. “My experience has been really good. Going to middle school at North Harford helped me already get to know all the players.”
Looking ahead, several Hawks hope baseball remains part of their future. Burd says his motivation comes from what’s next: “[What motivates me is] what’s ahead. My goal is to go to college baseball one day, so I will keep working to get there.” Gantt shares a similar vision. “The compassion I have for the game motivates me, and since I really like baseball I hope to continue playing in college.”
Although there are a lot of other strong high school teams in the state, NH players have the drive to not let that get in their way. “We have nothing to worry about,” says Carll. “We rock!”
