Drew LaFleur, a senior on the Hamilton Southeastern High School baseball team was mainly inspired by his dad to pursue a high school baseball career rather than pursuing any other sport. LaFleur said, “Starting at such a young age he has given me a huge advantage over many kids throughout my entire time playing…I would not be anywhere near where I am today without my dad.” LaFleur’s dad has done a lot for him ever since he was three years old to make him into the best baseball player that he could possibly be. From “Throwing with me, pitching to me, or hitting me fly balls” LaFleur explained. This is one of the reasons that he is a key aspect to a varsity baseball team currently playing in one of the best high school baseball conferences in Indiana.

LaFleur can recall a lot from his past 3 seasons playing baseball for HSE, but “During our postseason run last season when we made it to semi state” was definitely his favorite moment so far said LaFleur. Even though the Royals came up a game short from playing in a state championship, it was a season to remember, and it won’t be forgotten anytime soon. This season though, LaFleur’s “Goal for the season is to bring home a state championship, which is what we fell just short of last season” LaFleur explained. Because LaFleur isn’t planning on playing college baseball, he is going to give it his all this season and try to enjoy the sport he loves for one last time.

There are many pre-game routines that LaFleur and the team do. One being, “Before every game, we get in a circle to have a team prayer. Personally, I do extra mobility stretches after our team stretch so I can make sure I am fully prepared. Also, I envision myself succeeding as confidence is key in baseball” LaFleur explained. To stay focused and locked in LaFleur and the rest of the team perform these rituals so they can succeed. LaFleur pointed out how playing for the HSE baseball team these last four years has been an honor as they play in a very talented conference loaded with very talented baseball players. He considers himself lucky to be playing for such a great and well-coached program.

LaFleur explained some challenges that he’s had to face when playing high school baseball. He notes how, “Playing back-to-back games every week and having many double headers on Saturday’s is definitely challenging as we have to stay healthy and in good shape.” LaFleur’s training prepares him for a tough baseball schedule as there are more games played in the high school baseball season than most other sports. His training has helped him stay mentally and physically ready for games and practices, and his training helps him stay confident on the diamond.

This season LaFleur said that the team has had a lot of learning experiences and good memories so far. Some key moments and key wins were when, “We were able to sweep Brownsburg and beat one of the top teams in Ohio” LaFleur explained. The 2024 season has already been filled with many games, but there’s only more to come for LaFleur and the rest of the squad. The road to a state title has just begun and LaFleur hopes to make a huge impact down the middle and last stretches of the season.