DRESS THE CHAMPIONS
“What Makes YOU a Champion?”
Nomination: Alonso High School Boys Baseball Team
Nominated by: Michael Fahrman, Senior (4-year varsity player)
The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined efforts of each individual.” –
Vince Lombardi
The Alonso High School Varsity Baseball Team are champions and are the results of the combined efforts of each individual. We achieved the pinnacle award in high school sports when we were crowned 2009 Class 6A State Champions. This was the first time in 21 years that a public high school in Hillsborough County had brought home a state title in baseball.
The difference between Alonso and other high schools? Quite simply – our Coach, Landy Faedo. He has built a “championship” baseball program that produces “champions.” The time, dedication, and commitment he puts into baseball and his players far exceeds what one would expect from a high school coach. In only its 10th year of existence, Alonso has earned the reputation of being a quality program – a “perennial powerhouse” – and has received recognition and rankings at the local and national levels. Coach Faedo has high expectations of all of his baseball players, both on and off the field, and holds us accountable for our actions. On the field, he develops our fundamental skills of baseball, implements a regular strength and conditioning program to improve performance and reduce injury, and ensures we are mentally prepared. Our team begins every season with the preparation and confidence that we can win a state title. Off the field, he emphasizes the importance of academics and making good life decisions. Our team has established a relationship with the Shriners Hospital for Children, and Coach has brought our team to the hospital to spend time with the children.
During my 4 years as a member of the Varsity Baseball team, our achievements included:
Class 6A State Champions (2009)
2 Class 6A State Final Four appearances (2009; 2010)
2 Class 6A Regional Champions (2009; 2010)
1 Class 6A District Champions (2010)
2 Saladino Tournament Champions (2009; 2010)
Add 1 State Final Four, 1 Regional, 1 District, and 1 Saladino Tournament to the list since Alonso opened its doors 10 years ago, and you have a “baseball dynasty” in the making.
I am sure you have many qualified candidates to consider in your “Dress The Champions” contest, but we would be honored to join past winners Trinity Boys Baseball, Osceola Boys Basketball, Pine Castle Girls Softball, and Dr. Phillips Girls Basketball in receiving this honor. My parents have always told me that success is measured not only by what you achieve in life, but what you leave behind for others. As a graduating senior, winning this contest for my team and Coach Faedo would be an incredible way to say thank you and an amazing gift to leave behind. The Alonso H.S. Boys Baseball deserve to dress like champions. Thank you, Team Allen, for providing me an opportunity to make a difference.