The UHSSE Hawks baseball team is gearing up for a promising season, backed by passionate leadership, big goals, and a deep love for the game. While the start hasn’t been perfect, the team’s confidence and drive are stronger than ever.

Senior Jovic De León Cruz, who plays right field, believes in the team’s potential to turn things around. “We’re not off to a strong start so far, but I fully believe we’re the best team out there—we just have to put our heads together and lock in,” he said. Jovic is laser-focused on helping the Hawks win the conference this year and is embracing the journey. “My favorite thing this season so far is the competition mixed with having fun overall.”

Fellow senior Isiah Franklin, a key utility player who rotates between pitcher, first base, shortstop, and third, shares  De León Cruz’s optimistic mindset. “The season has started off a little rocky with our first game being lost by 1 point, but it was a good game to start with,” he said. His personal goals extend beyond high school. “I want to play club baseball at UConn and hopefully work my way up to a walk-on spot on the main team.”

Isiah also highlighted what makes the sport so special to him: “My favorite thing about baseball is how unpredictable it can be and how it can change in an instant.”

Despite a few early challenges, the Hawks are hungry, focused, and motivated to grow stronger each game. With senior leaders like De León Cruz and Franklin setting the tone, the team is locked in on building momentum and making this season one to remember.