Determination Drives Hardin-Simmons Baseball into the New Season By: Aniekeme Andy

The crack of a bat, the early morning workouts, and the echo of gloves snapping shut. Hardin--Simmons University’s baseball team has been living that rhythm all fall. 

“This offseason has been unlike any other during my time at Hardin-Simmons,” Evan Giles, a senior criminal justice major from North Richland Hills and third baseman, said. “In all the best ways, our coaches have been pushing us hard and keeping us grinding throughout the fall. With limited practice days, every session is used to its fullest, whether we’re on the field or in the cages getting our work in.”

That drive has built something new within the Cowboys. The locker room feels tighter. The competition feels stronger. And the belief that this season could be special is growing with every practice. “The atmosphere and player dynamics are completely new this year,” Giles said. “In my four years here, this is the closest and most competitive group of guys we’ve had yet.”

Part of that new energy comes from fresh faces like Cole Chapman, a junior business major from Albany. He is a recent transfer whose work ethic and positivity have made an immediate impact. 

“Chapman’s attitude has helped keep the team grounded through the grind of fall training.” Giles said. “A new transfer, Cole Chapman, has really stood out and motivated me this fall. He’s not only a great friend but also an amazing teammate to be around. In a sport centered around failure, he always brings a great attitude and a kind heart to the field.”

Division III baseball comes with challenges, especially in the offseason. Strict practice limits mean every minute counts. But under head coach Mitch Wilson, players have learned to use that time wisely, keeping intensity high and focus sharp. 

“As Coach Wilson always reminds us, ‘There’s no spot guaranteed to anyone,’ which keeps every day competitive,” Giles said. “That constant drive will definitely pay off once the season starts.”

For Giles and the rest of the Cowboys, this season is about proving something to themselves, to their conference, and to anyone who might have overlooked them last year. 

“Our biggest goal this year is to show our true capabilities,” Giles said. “Everyone is determined to prove a point and show that this coaching staff knows how to get us ready to win.”

When asked to sum up the team’s mindset in one word, Giles didn’t hesitate: determination.