Baseball is a sport that relies on individual talent, but leadership is essential as well. Junior Ethan Helbling has the talent needed, and he uses his leadership to keep the team motivated.
“I show leadership on the team by trying to keep all the boys in the game – even when we are losing, to try to spark a comeback to win,” he said.
Senior Matthew Nowicki recognizes Helbling’s leadership.
“He is the first one to pick someone up after an error or bad outing,” Nowicki said. “He brings energy to the bench and helps cheer on the team during every inning.”
Sophomore Matthew Musial cites one key game in which Helbling stepped up as a leader of the team.
“During the game against West Mifflin, going into the last inning, Ethan gave us a speech that motivated us to get the win, and we ended up walking it off in the bottom of the seventh.”
Even outside of the games, Helbling is always trying to encourage the team.
“He brings great energy to our practice, and is always the loudest one there, trying to push us to make us better day by day,” Musial said.
While having great leadership qualities, Helbling is very effective on the field as well. Helbling has a .293 batting average, he has recorded 12 RBI, and has 11 stolen bases on the season.
“Ethan puts the ball in play and always makes the other team have to rush to get him out because of his speed,” Nowicki said. “He is also excellent on the bases and uses his speed to get in scoring position.”
This season has been a success for the boys. They will be playing in the playoffs for the first time since 2014.
“It’s nice to see our hard work pay off and make the playoffs for the first time in 11 years,” Helbling said.
Helbling’s favorite in-game memory, meanwhile comes from before he was in high school.
“My favorite moment from a game was when Trey Alario and I hit back-to-back home runs when we were 12,” Helbling said.
Some of Helbling’s favorite baseball memories come off the field, though.
“Away tournaments and getting to stay in hotels with my teammates are some of my favorite baseball memories,” Helbling said.
Baseball has also taught Helbling some valuable lessons, he said.
“Make sure you never get down on yourself and to be grateful for all your opportunities,” he said.
Athletes who succeed recognize the support they got along the way. For Hebling, his mom has been in his corner the whole time.
“My mom has definitely been my biggest mentor,” Helbling said. “She supports me at every game and helps me stay positive even during the bad games.”
