Hawks looking to make steady progress

By Gloria Austin
Staff Writer
    The Hodgdon Hawks have made steady progress over the last two years and they are hoping to continue to put more Ws in the column this season.
    “We have added a win or two each year and would like to continue on this success,” said third-year coach Rob Smith. “Our goal is to gain confidence at the plate and in the field and build on that in every game. I think if we do this, we will see more wins then the last couple of years.”
    The Hawks’ key losses from a year ago included three seniors — Jamie Ryan, pitcher/third; Tom Brewer, second and Travis Quint, left field/designated hitter.
    The Hawks return a strong nucleus of seniors and a core of freshman players.
    “I will be looking to the seniors for leadership to encourage and teach the freshmen while at practice and during games,” added Smith.
    The Hawks will field a veteran outfield with seniors Daniel McGillicuddy, center and Laurence Burpee, right field aong with junior Jake Tidd in left.
    Around the horn will be first base, sophomore Erik Ryan; second, will be by committee, said Smith, which could either be Andrew Lane or Ira Cohen, who are both seniors; at shortstop will be senior Levi Scott or junior Ryan Wellington, who will also be pitching; and at third, freshman Nick Lunn, who will also be on the mound, as well.
    A newcomer, but former player, senior Mike Brombosz played for the Hawks his freshman and sophomore year before moving to Michigan. He returned in October, and will be the captain of the team. When he’s not pitching, he will see time at shortstop. Another senior, A.J. Acott will be used as a utlity player. “He can play any position and he may see time at six different positions during the year,” said Smith.
    Other freshmen joining the lineup are Chris Wallace, catcher/relief pitcher; Drew Gough, catcher/second/relief pitcher; Matt Harmon, utility player/infield/outfield; Josh Hudson, transfer student from Brewer, designated hitter/infielder.
    Another addition to the Hawks is assistant coach Mark Chamberlain, who had worked previously with the Greater Houlton Christian Academy Eagles.
    “Mark has been gracious enough to devote time to our team as a volunteer coach,” said Smith.
    Breaking down the Hawks, Smith sees defense, not only as a potential strength, but as a drawback, as well.
    “We have a lot of experience in the outfield and in the infield,” Smithe explained. “Most of the positions are filled by players who have played their position for multiple years, whether at the high school, middle school, or other level.”
    On the other side, some infield positions will be manned by numerous players and the Hawks’ relief pitchers are unproven at the varsity level.
    “We have three guys who could start at second base,” said Smith. “They will determine who plays there by proving themselves in practice and in games. It can be nice to have depth at certain positions, but finding the right person may take a few games. Our relief pitchers will be young, but they will get their experience quick.”
    The Hawks already played Central Aroostook, Southern Aroostook and Greater Houlton Christian Academy.
    “With these teams, we will get much needed experience from our younger players, especially our relievers,” said Smith. “The freshmen who make up our relief staff will hopefully gain enough experience over the year to step into starting roles as they move into their sophomore year.”
    Overall, the Hawks appear to have a healthy starting rotation and will be aggressive on the base paths.
    “Our starting pitchers have a lot of games under their belts, having a senior and junior as a starter,” said Smith. “We will be quick on the base paths and will be looking to run when given the chance.”  
    Smith looks at the season simply.
    “If we can meet our goals as a team and as individuals and stay healthy, we can consider it a good year.”
    The Hawks are scheduled to play East Grand at home on Monday, May 3 and Katahdin, Wednesday, May 5, both at 4 p.m.