HILLCREST KNIGHTS BASEBALL
As we reflect on the year that was, we’re excited to share our 2023 journey with you. It’s been an unforgettable season filled with growth, dedication, and some remarkable achievements.
First and foremost, 2023 marked Coach Nick Reichelt’s inaugural season as our Head Coach. His leadership and vision have set the tone for a promising future for the Hillcrest Knights. Joining him in this exciting endeavor were our dedicated returning coaches: Tyler Belnap (Junior Varsity Head Coach), Jon Bailey (Varsity Assistant), and Brennan Mossholder (Varsity Assistant).
The year began with a promising turnout, with 24 young Knights taking to the field for Spring baseball. We fielded both Varsity and Junior Varsity teams and embarked on a memorable journey. Mother Nature threw us a curveball with a cold and snowy winter, pushing our conference games into April. Despite the weather challenges, our team persevered and achieved a record of 7-16 during the spring season, securing a 3rd-place finish in the High Country 4A conference tournament.
One of the highlights of our spring was a remarkable upset victory over Idaho Falls High School in the conference tournament. We won Game 1 with a score of 10-7 and followed it up with a stunning 22-10 victory in Game 2. Although we couldn’t clinch the conference semi-finals against Bonneville High School, it was a season to remember, and Bonneville represented our conference well at the state level.
This year also marked the graduation of some incredible seniors who’ve left an indelible mark on our team: Drew Ferguson, Cooper Jorgensen, Will Morgan, Easton Larsen, and Braden Crystal. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors.
We’d also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our outgoing Booster Club President, Chy Jorgensen, and Vice President, Emma Schultz, for their years of dedicated service. They will be missed, and we welcome Marsi Allen and Rebecca Bailey as they step in to continue our program’s success.
The summer season brought exciting changes as we welcomed two new coaches to our program. Darik Croft, an alumni of Hillcrest High School, and Kolby Rimer, a St. George, UT native, brought their expertise to our team.
Our summer baseball program was bigger and better, with 46 Knights taking the field, including 14U, 16U, and 18U teams. Notably, our 18U team achieved a 20-21 record, including impressive victories over strong teams and participation in exciting tournaments. This year, we separated from the local Legion Post and played independently to further strengthen the Hillcrest program. We hosted all home games for the Idaho Falls Cutthroats, a local semi-pro team, making our field a hub of baseball excitement.
Fall baseball saw 16 dedicated players from 8th to 12th grade come together for a fun season in the Rock Mountain School of Baseball league. The season concluded with an exciting 5-game World Series, ending in a dramatic homerun derby to break the tie.
The year was full of fun and community-building events, including our 2nd annual double elimination Big Wiff Wiffle Ball tournament. Congratulations to the Dirtbags for taking the title, and to the Mother Cluckers for their strong second-place finish.
Our facilities underwent significant renovations, thanks to the hard work of volunteers. The Hackshack now boasts a new classroom/locker room, updated turf, and a refreshed appearance. Our field saw multiple improvements, enhancing the overall player and spectator
experience.
Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our major sponsors this year, including Senske, Members Preferred Credit Union, Edge Financial, Advanced Auto, Shippen Stallings Real Estate, and Crystal Homes Construction. Your support has been instrumental in our success.
As we approach Christmas and the end of this remarkable year, we want to convey our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support. We look forward to the challenges and victories that 2024 will bring. May your holiday season be filled with warmth, love, and the joy of shared memories.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Hillcrest Knights!
