Knights grow through stability
Published 9:56 pm Wednesday, May 3, 2017
Suffolk Christian Academy’s baseball team is undefeated for the season, but the bigger picture could be more important.
The Knights are going through a building phase in their program. In recent years, the Knights’ baseball program went through constant change year in and year out. Coaches come and go, but last fall, coach Ed Feeney was asked to revamp the program. He had been tasked with finding long-term solutions, rather than another year-to-year situation.
As Feeney discussed ways to strengthen the program, the coaching vacancy was open, and he stepped into that role.
Based on talent and the number of players on its teams, SCA decided to combine its junior varsity and varsity programs for the year. Scheduling for the year became difficult, as Feeney searched for opponents with a similar level of talent.
Undefeated in his first season, Feeney sees more than just the wins.
“We have competed well and have added structure, something that hadn’t been in place before,” Feeney said. “The season has gone well for what we are trying to do going forward.”
Feeney wants to establish a year-round baseball program at SCA. His recommendation is to have three teams — junior JV, JV and varsity — for the fall and the spring.
“We are working with business leaders in the community and other athletics associations in the region to put a program in place for SCA,” Feeney said. “We hope that we will field our three teams in the spring in 2018.”
Feeney established a practice program in December of 2016, and he has seen significant progress in his players. He expects the program to continue to grow with all the changes that will be made.
“I’m excited about the future of SCA baseball,” Feeney said. “For them to reach out to me was a privilege to establish a program like this. What I’m most excited about is all of the hard work off the field, just throughout the community and businesses, about our vision. We are putting the right plan in place and people to execute.”
SCA defeated Great Bridge Christian Academy by a score of 13-4 on Saturday. Feeney was able to get less experienced players involved and increase their confidence.
His players understand how to manage the game they are playing and following the game plan.
The Knights will face Williamsburg Christian Academy at home today at 4:30 p.m.