Hebron Rockies Overcome Obstacles to Lead League

The Hebron Minor Rockies baseball team is currently in first place, but the climb to the top has not been easy. According to coach Kristi Palmer, these young men have faced obstacles and adversity from day one and have fought hard to finish on top this season. 

“The Hebron Minor Rockies baseball team has definitely taken their team Bible verse (Luke 1:37  'For nothing is impossible with God') to heart this season,” Palmer wrote in an emailed response to questions.

The team lost two players just days before their first game. It was a hard loss, but it also inspired several other players to step up and achieve great things for their team.

According to Palmer, the team, led by catcher Brett 'Diesel' Stephens, has come together, worked hard and is now excelling on the baseball field. Palmer credited first-time pitcher Grant Miller and strike-throwing Chase Malcolm with rising to the occasion in taking over the mound for their team.

Palmer also praised infielders Daniel Miller, John Provence and Dylan Noce with making outstanding plays in the field and showing excellent baseball presence in key situations.

"Outfielders and first time minor players Tristan Branson, Joshua Brewer and Noah Griggs have made multiple big plays in the outfield, saving the team runs and keeping the Rockies in several hard fought ball games,” Palmer added.

Coach Palmer is clearly proud to be a part of this baseball team and all that they have accomplished so far this season.

“This is a great baseball team to be a part of,” Palmer wrote. “These boys have given their all to win baseball games this season but more importantly they have brought glory and honor to God on the baseball field.” 

As of today, The Hebron Rockies are in first place. They lead the Hebron Rays, with one game left to play in the season. Assistant coach Bart Malcom hopes to see a strong finish to the season and is proud to be a part of this team’s success.

“This team is successful because these boys are passionate, disciplined, and very coachable,” according to Malcom.

As with any great baseball team, the support of involved parents plays an important role in the success of a team. The parents of this amazing young group of athletes are very proud of how well the players have learned to come together as a team.    

In an emailed statement, Jill Stephens, mother of catcher Brett Stephens wrote, “This team has huge heart and determination. These kids have learned that playing with respect and fairness is most important. Despite two players having season-ending injuries, they pulled together and formed a very tight bond. They completely understand that it's not about one or two players -- it's about team. This team exemplifies all-in.”

Terri Miller, mother of second baseman Daniel, also emailed regarding these player’s ability to work as a team, and the great lesson of sportsmanship that they have learned this season.

“What strikes me about this team of kids and coaches is the spirit of true teamwork and encouragement that every member shows,” Miller wrote. “The coaches make every player feel valuable and needed, which has communicated to the boys that every person has an important job to do for the success of the team. Even though the team is made up of mixed abilities and experience, there are no 'stars.' The boys are not playing for their own personal glory, but for the joy of the team's success as a whole, and as a result, they have each had glorious moments. They have also exhibited great sportsmanship, because every player gives their best to the game whether it's a win or a loss. The positive is always brought up to the kids before any corrections are given which fosters a desire to improve as a team and provides an example of encouragement to each other. The Hebron Rockies truly rock!"

Team of the Week: Hebron Minor Rockies

Head coach: Coach “K” – Kristi Palmer

Other coaches: Coach Todd Miller and Coach Bart Malcom

Players: Grant Miller, Danny Palmer, Brett Stephens, Daniel Miller, Chase Malcom, John Provence, Tristan Branson, Joshua Brewer, Noah Griggs, Dylan Noce and Ben Taylor

Players to Watch: Out early with season ending left arm fractures, Danny Palmer and Ben Taylor will definitely be players to look for in the upcoming spring season.

Up next: Thursday, Nov. 3 vs. Dodgers

Send us an email to nominate the next Dacula Patch team of the week!