The Iola High baseball team is getting set to begin their season at home against Independence on Tuesday afternoon.
This is what some of the veteran Mustangs are thinking heading into this season.
— Jarrett Herrmann —
How do you expect to serve as a leader and what are your personal goals?
I’m not much of a vocal leader, I usually lead by my actions and not my words.
My goal this year is to get player of the year but at the same time a bigger goal would be to win the state championship. There’s a lot I can do but I just want to help this team win in any way possible. Hitting, fielding and being the leader I am, hopefully we’ll get there.
What’s one thing you’ve learned playing high school baseball?
No matter the adversity, it’ll be fine. If I struggle a few games or weeks, I know things are going to be alright and that I can’t get down on myself. You’ve still got to come out like you’re the best player in the world.
Coach Ashmore’s impact on the team?
I love him. He’s got a wealth of knowledge for these younger kids. He teaches very well and he knows what he’s talking about. He’s a great leader as a coach and he’ll be great for the town for a long time.
— Brandon McKarnin —
What will be your approach on the mound?
Of course throwing strikes, keeping it consistent, going out there with some confidence and I’m going to get the job done. I know I have a good defense behind me to help me. 
At the plate?
I’m a go-getter. I get up there looking to smack the ball and there’s nothing they can do. If they throw me one over the plate, I’m going to hit it and we’re going to get some runs in and get after it.
