After a nine-year hiatus, Worthing High School’s baseball team is back in action, thanks to the leadership of new head coach Dante Higgins.
The Colts have returned to the diamond this season, and while they’re focused on development, the team is already showing signs of growth.
“My goal is to build a competitive team for the future, but for now, I want the players to enjoy the game and learn as much as they can,” said Higgins.
The lack of youth baseball programs in the area contributed to a decline in player interest over the years making it difficult for the Colts to field a varsity team in recent years. This decline, combined with the challenge of finding a committed coach, led to the team’s inactivity starting in 2016.
“For many of our players, this is their first time playing baseball,” said Higgins. “We’re starting from scratch, teaching them the fundamentals, such as how to properly hold a bat and proper throwing mechanics. This year is all about learning and improving week by week.”
The process of rebuilding the program began last year when Higgins began reaching out to students, encouraging them to join the newly formed team.
J’Vonte Jones, the Colts’ second baseman, was one of the first players to join the team. Originally from St. Louis, Mo., Jones had previous baseball experience but had taken a break from the sport. After hearing that Worthing was bringing back its baseball team, he jumped at the opportunity.
“I moved to Worthing in September 2024, and when I found out the school was bringing back the team, I knew I had to be a part of it,” Jones said.
Sophomore catcher Kameron Guidry, another new addition to the team, echoed similar excitement.
“I didn’t know much about the team’s past, but when I heard it was coming back, I felt really good about being part of it,” he said.
Despite not having a practice field, Higgins kept things fun and engaging with competitive drills.
“The first few practices were tough, especially without a field, but I made sure to keep it fun and keep the players motivated,” said Higgins. “As the team started to come together, our focus shifted from just forming a team to preparing to win games.”
One of the most important positions in baseball is the pitcher, and for the Colts, sophomore Boston Greenwood has stepped up as the team’s ace. Greenwood, who hadn’t played since eighth grade, was eager to contribute this season.
“I adjusted by listening to the coaching staff while also having fun and enjoying the game,” said Greenwood. “When I pitch, I focus on hitting certain spots in the strike zone, like the outside edge on a 0-2 count.”
“Greenwood is our leader on the mound,” said Higgins. “He plays hard and stays positive, which helps keep the team focused.”
Inspired by the football team’s recent success, winning the 4A-1 Region III District 11 title for two straight years, the newly formed baseball team aims to generate the same level of excitement.
“We’re making sure the baseball schedule is visible and announcing upcoming games to keep the school informed,” said Higgins. “It’s been great to see students and teachers asking about the game results the day after. We also wear our baseball gear around campus to let everyone know we’re back.”
Though the team is still in the early stages of its rebuild, the Colts have faced their share of challenges, particularly with skill development and team chemistry. Players recognize the importance of staying composed under pressure.
“One of our challenges is staying calm in tough situations and not overthinking,” said Jones. “We need to be more comfortable with being uncomfortable so we don’t panic.”
Greenwood added, “Owning up to our mistakes instead of blaming others will help us grow as a team. We have to hold each other accountable.”
Despite a 1-6 record so far, Coach Higgins has already accomplished significant goals this season. The team played its first game in nearly a decade and secured its first victory in nine years by defeating Jack Yates. This win has helped instill belief among the players that they can continue to improve.
“Our main focus right now is showing up to practice, attending games, and applying what we’ve learned,” said Higgins. “As long as we keep putting in the effort, I believe we’ll continue to improve and become more competitive.”
