Kaneland’s varsity baseball team is gearing up for the upcoming season.

     The team kicked off their new season by playing three games over spring break. This year Kaneland traveled to Cincinnati, Ohio in April.

     The team began their trip by playing Elder High School on April 3, and the next day Archbishop Moeller High School finishing off the trip with a game against Dixie Heights High School.

     The varsity team had their work cut out for them; Archbishop Moeller High School is defending back-to-back Ohio State Champions. They are also ranked in the top 20 in the nation and have four Division one athletes on their team.

     Elder High School is also a powerhouse opponent with an impressive 12 state championships in Ohio.

     Tyler Carlson is a senior who will have to lead younger players after losing 15 seniors to graduation last year.

     “It’s definitely different from last season, but basketball has helped me step into a leadership role in baseball,” Carlson said.

     The spring break trip gave the Knights a gauge of their early season play compared to some challenging competition. This helps them prepare for the rest of the season ahead.

     “We want to start off strong with the Spring Break trip this year. Of course we want to win conference and then have a good showing in the playoffs,” Carlson said.

     The first baseman believes that his team can win a Regional Championship and advance deep into the playoffs.

     The Knights have seen some setbacks due to the weather but are doing all that they can to keep practicing.

     “Obviously baseball is a game played on dirt and grass. Unfortunately, due to the weather, we’ve had to practice inside. Although we have been able to use the tennis courts a few times this year,” Coach Brian Aversa said.

     In addition to indoor practices, the varsity team has been getting up for 6:00 a.m. lifting during the school week and conditioning on the weekends.

     All of the time spent practicing and conditioning have created a close relationship between teammates.

     “I just want to play the game I love with my teammates who are my second family,” junior Joey Panico said.

     Panico who plays shortstop, is anticipating the start of his first year on varsity.

     “I’ve been having a lot of fun with this group of guys this year. It’s definitely a family feeling,” said Carlson.

     “I want to finish with a winning record, compete in every game giving it 110 percent effort, and finish the season on top,” Panico said.

     “I expect us to be competitive and win the Northern Illinois Big 12,” Aversa said.

     Varsity is looking to improve on a 11-13 record from last season and finish on top of their conference.