youth baseball Archives – Your Sports Network

Appearing on the latest episode of the YSN podcast, Kirlik recounted the thrilling at-bat that capped a classic pitcher’s duel. “I was praying on deck that I would get up and deliver the moment. And God has mysterious ways. And it happened,” Kirlik said, describing his mindset as he came to the plate with two runners on.

On the replay, the ball rocketed off his bat and hit the wall, allowing two Spartans to score and sealing the 2-1 victory. “First thoughts, I thought it was gone too. And I just ran hard just in case if it didn’t. And I was just running hard,” he said.

Kirlik credited the close-knit chemistry of the Boardman squad for their success this season. Many of the players have been teammates since they were eight years old, and Kirlik spoke about the deep trust and maturity they’ve developed together. “I think the trust that we have in each other just really goes to show how mature we’ve become as a group,” he shared.

Leadership from seniors like Ivan Rudiak and Kaden Mayhew has also been key. “They have always talked highly about us and worrying about… just playing to the best of our abilities, no matter how the outcome is,” Kirlik said.

Known as “the King” to teammates and the YSN community for his knack for coming through in big moments, Kirlik revealed how his parents instilled the values of teamwork and support. “If you aren’t the one producing, always help your teammates and lift them up,” he recalled advice from his mother and father.

The team, guided by Coach Maine’s “12 a.m. rule,” doesn’t dwell on wins or losses, instead choosing to focus on the next game. “After every game, we go celebrate, have a good time, but as soon as 12 a.m. hits, we forget it and worry about the next game,” Kirlik explained.

With Boardman now making believers out of doubters, the Spartans are keeping their goals focused yet ambitious. “Our end goal is definitely to make it deep in the playoffs, but as of right now, we’re definitely just worrying about winning the AAC and we’re taking it steps at a time,” said Kirlik.

The junior, who hopes to play college baseball, says his ultimate wish is to keep making an impact on any field he steps onto—just as he did in front of the home faithful Tuesday night.

“I just want to make an impact for the team,” Kirlik said, summing up his philosophy that has already delivered some unforgettable moments for the Spartans this season.

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