The park baseball tradition to travel to Arizona for spring training is being kept alive by varsity coach Brian Kelly, despite being canceled for several prior seasons. Kelly said he feels the continuation of the trip is important for the team’s success.

“When I was hired before last season it was important to me to bring back the spring trip. When I was playing at SLP we went on a trip and the memories made were awesome,” Kelly said. “The on field benefit mixed with the team building and fun is a great experience for the boys.”

According to Kelly, the spring training experience yields valuable insight, as it allows the coaching staff to see the players on the field.

“It helped us see who was ready to play varsity because you’re out on a field instead of in the gym. Minnesota baseball is tough when you can’t get outside all winter,” Kelly said.

Junior baseball player Ian Sandbo said he agrees with Kelly and sees several benefits of the trip.

“We got to get outside for the first time and that helps us to practice more than what we can inside, and also we get to see live at bats outside before the season,” Sandbo said.

According to Sandbo he appreciates the memories created in Arizona.

“My favorite memories would include going to the ASU (Arizona State University) game and Diamondbacks game. Also we got to face the best pitcher in Minnesota with a bunch of MLB scouts there,” Sandbo said.

According to Kelly, the camaraderie created in Arizona will carry through the season.

“I feel like we came together in Arizona and we’re ready for another successful season,” Kelly said.