Emma Cordes

This year, the Phoenixville Phantom Baseball team had a successful season. With starting pitcher junior Jake Waller out for the season due to a broken foot, juniors Devon Landis and Jeremy Burgess stepped up to the challenge. “With mental game help from The Dog (Mike Matson), the season went well,” said Landis. “I felt myself improving and learning after every game we played. It doesn’t matter what sport it is, The Dog knows how to win.” Varsity’s record this season was 8-10, while JV’s record was 6-10 overall. Owen J. Roberts beat Methacton for the Pac 10 Title.

The Phantoms’ most memorable game this season was against one of the team’s toughest opponents, Boyertown. The Phantoms won the 10 inning game 4 – 3, showing just how much effort and teamwork they possess. “That game was epic,” commented Landis. “We were tied for so long then finally won; it was the first time we beat them in eight years! It was just a good overall feeling.”

In order to be a successful team, you need to be led by outstanding coaches. Leading the Phantoms through their victories is head coach Jack Sturgeon, who completed his 13th year of coaching. Varsity assistant coaches Mr. Huston as well as JV head coach Scott Smiley have both been coaching for about five years. “The staff is really pleased with the youth on our team. This year we only had two seniors,” stated coach Smiley. “As a team, we were able to stick together and work together and we were able to win some close games, which I think shows a lot about our team.”

The varsity team’s pitchers included juniors Devon Landis, Jeremy Burgess and Gary Moses. Catching for the team was junior Derek (Ducky) Ryan and sophomore Tommy Romano played shortstop. At first base was senior John Wieland, at second base junior Cal Milano, and playing third base was Jeremy Burgess. Helping out in the outfield was senior Andrew Ewing, with junior Matt Cohen in left field and junior Sam McQuiston in right field. “The team really worked together,” stated senior John Wieland. “We’ve learned from games throughout the season what works and what doesn’t and we just went out there and gave our all every game, just like Mike Matson would.”

Your browser may not support display of this image.Your browser may not support display of this image.Your browser may not support display of this image.Your browser may not support display of this image. The success the baseball team had this year was a combination of good teamwork, leadership and toughness they displayed all season. With the season over, the underclassmen can expect nothing but success for the future. “I was happy with the overall outcome of the season,” said Smiley. “Now the only thing to do is look forward for next year.” Congratulations on a successful season boys and although I will not be managing the team next year, I know you guys will continue to work hard and play hard!