It’s been a historic first half of the season for baseball, as the Cougars are off to their best start in 22 years. The team has shown resilience and strong chemistry on the field, setting the tone for what could be a memorable year. They are focused on finishing the season strong as they push to clinch the program’s first-ever ODAC playoff berth.
“Naturally, playoffs are on everyone’s mind, and we are definitely aware of where we are at, but our ultimate goal is that No. 1 seed, so we still have work to do,” junior pitcher Tim Schware said. “We just have to constantly remind ourselves to keep doing our job every day, and I think we will find ourselves in a good spot come May.”
Picked 11th in the ODAC preseason poll, this start to the season has surprised everyone—except the players in the locker room. They believed they had the keys to success before the year began.
“Playing our game, working together offensively, defensively and pitching. Putting together good at-bats, compounding innings, along with good pitching,” sophomore first baseman Jack Turner said. “Knowing what team we are, continuing to have great at-bats as a team, and putting up big numbers in the score column.”
The culture of the Cougars has shifted in a positive direction in 2025. Assistant coach Tyler Smith, a former four-year player for the team, has seen a noticeable change since his playing days.
“The biggest change in culture is that everyone is bought in. The team’s culture went from a coach-led team to a player-led team. We’ve seen it every day on and off the field, whether it’s during practice when an upperclassman takes charge, or the leaders checking in and making sure everyone is doing well in their classes,” Smith said. “Another thing is they find ways to be around each other off the field. That goes to the family-like culture that’s been built since I was a player here.”
With a first half full of standout moments and victories, one series, in particular, sticks out to freshman pitcher Adan True.
“My favorite memory so far is the sweep against Brevard. Coming out and absolutely balling out, starting the season on our [win] streak. It was just memorable, to be honest,” True said. “The vibes with the fellas and just every day at practice from there on out were just amazing.”
At the time of publication, the Cougars are 13-6 overall and 5-3 in conference play. They currently sit sixth in the ODAC standings, with the top eight teams qualifying for the playoffs.
