By Stacey Fisher
Freelance reporter
Special to the Tribune

The Skyline Thunderbird baseball team is six games into a season that has been frustrating at times but has offered many opportunities for growth and improvement. Skyline Baseball is relatively new (started in 2019), so this is not the first time that the team has struggled to find its footing, nor will it be their last.

With a losing record so far, it would seem that there is not much to celebrate, however, it is between the lines of the win-loss column where this team is making strides. For instance, in a loss to Inman in the second game of the season, Skyline was so sure-handed on defense that they committed no fielding errors. This is a rare occurrence for a win and almost unheard of for a loss. It shows the potential of the team in the field. The Birds have led in games and hung with much more experienced teams beyond the third inning. If you watch enough sports, especially at the 1, 2, and 3A levels, these seasonal rises and falls are pretty commonplace unless you are including private or parochial schools that can recruit.

Despite the struggle, this team continues to show up to practice and games with a positive attitude and desire to improve. They play hard and with the kind of sportsmanship that has become a Thunderbird hallmark. This shows a tremendous amount of character during tough losses. Many of the younger players are trying new positions and enjoying some individual success, both on the field and at bat.

“This group was dealt a tough hand this year and is doing a good job improving and building upon the foundation we have,” said Head Coach Lee Kendall. “They are young, which is good news for future seasons. We will continue to work to make strides as the season progresses.”

The Thunderbirds will be playing at home in beautiful Lemon Park on Thursday, April 10 starting at 6:00 p.m.