The UHSSE Hawks baseball team wrapped up a memorable 2025 season filled with growth, grit, and a commitment to the game. Though the season ended with a tough 1–0 loss in the conference championship, the journey was anything but a failure—especially for the seniors leaving their final mark on the field.
Senior Jackson Marchetti, a dependable presence in right field, reflected on the season with both pride and perspective.
“The season went well overall, but we ultimately fell short of our goal, which was winning the conference championship,” he said. “Still, we should be proud of ourselves. We played really well.”
Beyond the game, Jackson shared what he’ll miss most:
“I’m going to miss all my teammates who made this year probably the most fun I’ve ever had playing baseball. It’s like therapy—it helped me escape all the stresses of school and life.”
Jackson will continue his journey at SUNY Purchase, where he’ll bring the same heart and hustle to the next level of competition.
Joining him in senior leadership was Isiah Franklin, who played all over the field, from pitcher to first, shortstop, and third base. He also plans to keep playing the sport he loves.
“The season started off a little rocky, but it became something special,” said Isiah. “My favorite thing about baseball is how unpredictable it is—how it can all change in an instant.”
Isiah will attend UConn, playing club ball with hopes of walking onto the main team.
Senior Jovic De León Cruz, a vocal and passionate leader for the Hawks, also closed out his high school baseball career with pride.
“Baseball is like therapy for me,” Jovic said. “I’ll definitely miss it next year—and I’ll miss my boys too, for sure.”
Though he received offers from several D2 and D3 schools, Jovic has chosen to pursue academic goals instead. His advice to younger players?
“Work hard, especially in the offseason. And don’t be afraid—being a freshman doesn’t mean you won’t play. If you practice hard, good things will come.”
One of those rising underclassmen is sophomore Benedetto Occhiogrosso, who showed off his versatility all season by playing catcher, third base, shortstop, and pitcher.
“We had a good team this year and played some solid baseball,” he said. “When you come together and play good, clean baseball as a team, nothing can stop you.”
And the future looks bright. A freshman catcher and third baseman noted:
“We’re going into the playoffs as the #2 seed, which is a solid spot to be in,” he said. “We’ve had some great games, especially against Innovation and Parish Hill.”
While the championship eluded them, the 2025 Hawks walked away with their heads high, knowing they built a culture of effort, brotherhood, and pride in the jersey. For the graduating seniors, it’s the end of one chapter—and the start of another.
