A strong foundation built within the Grafton Black Hawks baseball program
GRAFTON, Wis. — Guided by the motto, 鈥淩espect the Game,鈥� the Grafton Black Hawks baseball program has collected years of memorable moments, provided thrilling celebrations, and represented the Grafton community with pride. The philosophy in three points: be on time, run hard to first, and wear your hat right. The consistent message has established a strong foundation for the program.
In the decade following an unforgettable journey to the State Tournament in 2010, the program has boasted a 151-107 record, including an 8-5 record in the postseason since 2015.
However, as part of the program鈥檚 philosophy, team success is not measured by the scoreboard.
More important than win-loss records are the lifelong relationships and success 海角社区 of graduates in their adult lives. The program has also produced dozens of college baseball players (2 drafted by Major League teams) and a growing list of coaches who continue to share their love of the game.
While maintaining consistent expectations, philosophy, and traditions, the program has had to adapt to major changes in the last three years. In 2019 the WIAA shifted summer baseball to the spring season. The Black Hawks adjusted to cooler temperatures and advanced to Sectionals with an opportunity to play for a return to the State Tournament.
In response to the shift to spring, Grafton High School added turf to the infield at 9th Avenue Field and developed a beautiful home athletic complex. After losing the 2020 season to COVID-19, the Black Hawks returned to play on turf in 2021. The baseball program also added American Legion Baseball as an opportunity for players to represent Grafton鈥檚 Rose-Harms Legion Post 355 during the summer months.
As the 2022 season approaches, Coach Durst is excited to see a new group of players create their high school baseball experience. 鈥淓very team is different and establishes its own personality. I look forward to working with a dedicated coaching staff and helping each player find ways to contribute to our program鈥檚 success. Throughout the season, we want to improve as a team while competing against talented Division 1 teams in the North Shore Conference, and be playing our best baseball heading into the tournament.鈥�
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