The excitement around Andover Central baseball is building and with players like Easton Elliott returning to the field, the Jaguars look like a contender. Elliott will pitch and play shortstop this season as the team under head coach Grant Bacon look take the field for the first time in over a year.
“Words can’t describe how excited I am to get back on to the field. Andover Central baseball holds a special place in my heart and for last season to get cancelled was truly heartbreaking,” said Elliott.
Entering his final year at Central, Elliott is focused on making the most of every play and every at-bat. Elliott said playing with his teammates and for this coaching staff is what he loves to do more than anything.
“I love the connection that I have with my teammates and coach Bacon and coach Gerwick,” said Elliott. “My expectation for this season is to take it day by day and game by game and to not look ahead. It would be a dream to win that league title and make it back to state for the first time since my freshman year. I am looking forward to leading this team in the best way I can.”
That leadership, alongside other upperclassmen on the team, could be the difference in a good season and an unforgettable season. For Elliott, just having the opportunity to compete means more to him this year than in seasons past. He’s made some great memories as a Jaguar.
“The most memorable thing about Andover Central for me is by far getting to start varsity my freshman year. That is one of my biggest accomplishments in life as I am one of the very few freshmen to ever play varsity under coach Bacon at Andover Central High School,” said Elliott.
Upon graduating from Central, Elliott plans to attend college and continue playing the game he loves.
“My plans are to go to Johnson County Community College to play baseball and see where that takes me with my career,” said Elliott.
Away from sports, Elliott is involved in younglife at Central and said his older brother Cooper, has made a big impact in his life.
“He is someone I have looked up to and now he is playing baseball at Wichita State, “Elliott said.
