The Salina Central baseball team is excited about a new coach with college level experience and for another chance at state. However the team is saying goodbye to their veteran coach.
Dee Kolzow had been coaching baseball as a head coach for 17 years for Salina Central before retiring last year.
“I worked with Coach Kolzow for 17 seasons. Coach put his team above winning,” assistant coach Richard Brake said “He loved his players and held them accountable. His knowledge of the game is second to none.”
Junior Grayton Gross said Coach Kolzow was offering more than just his serious side to his players.
“I am going to miss Coach Kolzow jokes during team meetings,” Gross said. “He would always say ‘go get them turkeys’.”
This year the team will be coached by former Arkansas Tech baseball player and current gym teacher, Mark Vaughn.
Coach Vaughn has been an assistant coach for two years alongside Kolzow for Central’s baseball. He said that he is looking forward to more than just watching his players improve on the field.
“My goals for the team are to get better everyday, and put ourselves in a position to get to the state tournament again.” Vaughn said. “I also am looking forward to helping build a strong culture at Salina Central and helping my players become better baseball players and better people at the same time.”
Junior Oscar Perez said that they are excited about Vaugnh’s experiences with college baseball.
“I am really excited for Vaughn to coach.” Perez said. “He knows what he is talking about and he has experience with colleges.”
Brake said that he is glad to see a strong returning senior squad this year.
“I can not wait to watch our senior crew,” Brake said, “Their leadership will guide this unit right to where our goals are.”
This year the senior roster will consist of Jack Gordon, Seth Rogers, Tyrus Young, and Maximus Maes.
Junior Bodie Rodriguez said that he is excited about the new chance to win more and get another chance at qualifying for state this year.
“I am hopeful for another state run,” Rodriguez said. “And a lot more wins as well as a better season.”
Last year Central were seeded 16th in the state tournament but lost to Maize High School in the semifinals by a score of 12-2. They then beat South High for third place by a score of 2-0. Central’s overall record last year was 9-15.
Coach Brake said that he is hopeful for what returning pitchers Grayton Gross and Bodie Rodriguez have to offer this year.
“They bring a ton of talent and experience in key situations,” Brake said. “I can not wait to watch them continue to bring it.”
Their next game will be at Wichita-Northwest at 4:30 p.m.on April 4th.
