Scrimmage with GCT on 3/6 at 1:00 PM

Conway; make up scheduled for Monday @ 5:00 PM.

It's That Time of the Year!

published Tueday, Jan 13, 2004

On Tuesday, January 6th the 2004 Batesville Pioneers officially practiced for the first time. This was their first practice with returning coach Stu Smith, who has returned to Batesville after a 4 year stint as Head Baseball coach at Van Buren High School. Stu was the Pioneers' first coach, beginning with the programs inception in 1990, a position he maintained for 10 years. During his previous tenure he led the team to 3 State Championships, 1 State Runner Up and 7 Conference Titles. Coach Smith stated that he has the same goal every year; that of obtaining a State Title. The 2004 season is no different in that respect. With a large, strong and experienced group of Seniors who have 2 State Runner-up titles and a very talented Sophomore group his goal is definitely achievable this year. Along the way he hopes to reclaim the Conference championship from 4A east rival Nettleton. After having held it for the last 3 years it is time to return it to Batesville.

The team will begin field practices on February, 2nd. We will see some improvements at the field itself, with the foul line fences being upgraded from 4 to 8 feet in height. The dugouts will be refurbished and a concrete wall will be added behind the stands to allow the placement of bronze plaques commemorating past teams and individuals of note. These improvements are being made at the expense, and with the cooperation, of the Batesville school system. Stu expressed his great appreciation to Superintendent Ted Hall, the Batesville School Board and Maintenance Supervisor Richard O'Neal for their continued support for Pioneer Baseball. Coach Smith will announce time and dates for parents meetings as they become available. It's a great year to be a Pioneer!