The Palisades Charter High School baseball team, both J.V. and varsity, have been through a traumatic experience recently. A fire ravaged their school and city, displacing many of the players and causing them to practice on a makeshift field at Cheviot Hills Recreation Center. Despite the challenging circumstances, the team is determined to come together, support each other, and prepare for the upcoming season.
The varsity captain, Ryan Hirschberg, has taken on a leadership role, running players-only practices until coaches are allowed to join in February. He emphasizes the importance of focus and effort, holding his teammates accountable for their actions. The team is facing uncertainty about where they will play their home games and what equipment they will use, but their dedication to the sport remains unwavering.
Head coach Mike Voelkel is committed to ensuring that the team plays this season, even if it means playing all their games on the road. The support from the community has been overwhelming, with donations of supplies and offers of assistance pouring in. The team is grateful for the support but knows that the road to recovery will be long and challenging.
Players like Jett Teegardin and Ian Sullivan have lost their homes and belongings in the fire, but they are determined to stay strong and support each other. The team has come together in the face of adversity, using baseball as a way to escape the tragedy and focus on something positive. Their new practice jerseys will bear a “Pali Strong” patch as a symbol of their resilience and unity.
As the team continues to practice and prepare for the season, they are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of coming together in times of crisis. Despite the challenges they face, the players are motivated to succeed and make their community proud. This season is about more than just winning games; it’s about overcoming obstacles, supporting each other, and showing the world what they are made of.
In the midst of tragedy, the Palisades Charter High School baseball team is finding strength, unity, and hope. They may have lost their homes, but they have not lost their spirit. As they take the field once again, they do so with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The road ahead may be difficult, but with each other’s support, they know they can overcome anything.
