NPHS baseball creates lasting memories
After a 5-2 winning start, the NPHS varsity baseball team has already created limitless memories and learned many lessons since the beginning of the season. For many, baseball is a lifelong passion, and many student-athletes on the team have been playing since they could barely hold a bat.
As assistant coach for the team, Tim Carr has created many different relationships during his time in Newbury Park. He feels that in a world where travel baseball and individual accomplishments seem to be so prevalent, NPHS still has a hometown feel. “I have many great memories on the field with players but what I love now is seeing players that I’ve coached with families of their own coaching their kids. Living close to where I’ve coached, I’m fortunate to see many former players around town,” Carr said.
Beginning with tee ball at just 4-years-old with his brother, Owen Meli, senior, has been playing baseball ever since. Even after 14 years, Meli still wants to play for as long as he can. “The love for the sport of baseball [motivates me]. Along with the sacrifices my parents have made to give me the opportunity to play baseball most of my life,” Meli said. Meli plans to continue his athletic career at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
Over the years, Meli has learned that success is not always defined by the outcome. “You can gain knowledge throughout the process and being disciplined and patient creates success,” Meli said. However, the sport of baseball is heavily dependent on team bonding and relationships, so Meli also finds that a top priority. “Motivating each other is super important and staying supportive as a team keeps good energy. Holding each other accountable creates good teamwork,” Meli said.
Another teammate who has been playing baseball for as long as he can remember is Bryce Lermer, senior. Introduced to baseball by his dad, who has a love for the game, Lermer recently committed to play at Beloit College in Beloit, Wisconsin. As Lermer continued his baseball career in high school, he was able to learn many life lessons. “Baseball has taught me that failure is acceptable. It is a game [where] mistakes can be made and not control the rest of the game,” Lermer said.
Throughout the time that Carr has spent with the baseball community, he has watched the team grow at NPHS, as well as helped players learn to believe in themselves. “Winning is great but the life lessons of winning and losing are what really matters. All of us have our last day in the game at some point and if you can be a coach that teaches players about believing in themselves, that is bigger than baseball,” Carr said.
