As the spring sports season is in full swing, our CHS Varsity Baseball team has started the season with a great record, already improving upon last year. The team has started with a 9-5 record. Fresh off a win against Goochland, the score 11-2, the team has its sights set high for this season.
New Coaching, Clear Vision
This season marks the beginning of a new era, as Coaches Mullins and Ness start their first year as assistant coaches alongside Coach Cox. Coach Mullins has had previous experience with the majority of players on the team. “Coach Mullins brings a lot of knowledge and experience,” said junior left fielder Brady Mauder. “And while Coach Ness can be tough, he’s earned our respect. We all know he wants the best for us.” Senior right/center fielder, Mason Divers, noted the shift in focus during practices. “There’s a real sense of direction this year. The coaches have helped us raise our standards.” Although Coach Ness and Mullins are new this year, Coach Cox, the team’s head coach, is returning for his 7th year with the team. Coach Cox notes that he feels blessed that the new coaches were able to help and that the team is very fortunate to have them. Coach Cox also notes the fact that having three coaches is easier and helps individualize help for every player on the team.
A Fresh Start — With New Faces
Among the returning players for the year is Andrew Cullinan, a senior pitcher/first baseman. Andrew has been on the varsity team since his freshman year, and his biggest goal for the season is to be the District Player of the Year. Andrew is a senior, along with Mason Divers. Both players look forward to a winning record this year and share similar input on what they hope comes out of the team this year. The Knights lost a lot of players due to the large number of graduating seniors. This year, the majority of the team is new, with the bulk moving up from the JV team.
Clear Goals, Shared Vision
The Black Knights have set their goals high for the new season, not only for postseason qualification but for a deep playoff run, potentially reaching the state tournament. “Our main team goal is to make the playoffs and go further than we ever have,” said junior shortstop Lucas Arbelaez. “Last year’s two-run loss in the regional quarterfinals showed us how close we are.” For senior standout Andrew Cullinan, individual accolades like District Player of the Year are in sight, but the focus remains on collective achievement. “We want to hit 15 wins and make a serious run in the postseason,” he said.
Learning Through Adversity
After a 4–0 start, the Knights have faced tougher competition in recent games, including their first loss to Goochland, whom they have now beaten at home. Still, players remain optimistic and focused on growth. “Those losses were frustrating because we were capable of winning all of them,” Mauder said. Now, after their last game, up against their rival Goochland, they won 11-2.
Rivalries Renewed
As with any season, rivalries will play a defining role. Orange County, in particular, stands out due to the presence of the Knights’ former coach. “That game always means a little more,” said Divers. “We’re fired up for it.” Other key matchups include Albemarle, Monticello, and Western Albemarle, all programs that have historically pushed the Black Knights to elevate their game.
Charting the Path Ahead
As the Black Knights enter the heart of their schedule, the focus shifts from potential to execution. With strong leadership and a roster that continues to mature each game, the players believe they are capable of something special. “This group has what it takes,” said Divers. “We’ve seen what we can do when we play to our standard. Now it’s about doing that every game.” The coming weeks will test the Knights’ ability to stay sharp, adjust under pressure, and finish strong. If they do, this season could mark a turning point, not just for the team, but for the program as a whole.
