For second-year baseball coach Scott Davis and the Falcons, the stakes are high as they prepare to take the field. After an up-and-down rookie season, Davis is determined to overcome the challenges he faced last year and lead the Falcons to victory.

With coaching staff changes and a roster shakeup, Davis has taken a proactive approach to ensure his team’s success. As a former Division I player at Clemson University, Davis has a wealth of experience both on and off the field. He has coached travel league baseball for over 20 years, including stints with Clarksburg Baseball and Softball, the Clarksburg Keys, and Bethesda-Chevy Chase Big Train. Davis’ coaching experience has led to him being seen as an exceptional mentor for the younger players. 

“Coach Davis has become a mentor and role model,” said junior Ryan Griffith.

Griffith is entering his first full season as a member of the varsity squad after being called up after the conclusion of last year’s junior varsity season. 

Despite his qualifications, Davis faced significant challenges during his rookie season. The biggest obstacle he encountered was the late offer of the coaching position. As a result, the early part of the season involved a few teething issues.

“The biggest challenge was not knowing the players that well going into the season,” said Davis.

Additionally, the Falcons struggled with consistency throughout the year, finishing with a 9-6 record and a first-round playoff exit at the hands of Walkersville High School. To address these issues, Davis has made several changes this season. He has brought in a new assistant coach, Brady Pearre, a PHS alumni who won a state championship during his time as a Falcon. Davis believes Pearre will help the team improve its overall performance. In fact, his new hire may already be paying off. 

“[Advice from Coach Pearre] has already allowed me to get better as a player,” said junior Andrew Brill, an All-Division First-Team member from last season.

Davis has also been working closely with his players to build stronger relationships and establish clear expectations for the upcoming season. His coaching philosophy is simple.

“[My main goal] is teaching the players the right way to play the game,” he said. 

This simple yet effective mantra has helped ease some of the troubles the players faced last year. According to Brill, one of the biggest struggles for the team last season was adjusting to a new coaching style and techniques. Such a philosophy should ensure that the coaching transition continues to be relatively trouble-free during Davis’ second season.

Another key factor in the team’s success this season will be its roster. Davis has made several changes to the lineup with an eye on improving the team’s overall performance. Between replacing the seniors from last year and bringing in more young talent, the roster looks quite different than it did last season. Although there are only three seniors on the team, there are multiple younger players that Davis says are primed for a breakout season. 

“[Junior] Parker Pearre is due to have a breakout year,” Davis said. “[He] has worked very hard and looked good this winter.”

Pearre had some injury troubles last season, but is fully healthy and has the confidence of the coaching staff. Davis also touched on sophomore Ian Harper, who is set to play a big role this season on the mound.

In addition to the changes he has made on the field, Davis has also been focusing on building a strong team culture off the field. Davis said that continuing to preach competitiveness is essential for success. He believes that this approach, combined with developing young talent, is the key to building a winning culture, team, and program. 

As the baseball season approaches, Davis and the Falcons are poised to overcome the challenges they faced last year and achieve success on the field. With a new coaching staff, a roster shakeup, and a focus on team-building, Davis has taken proactive steps to ensure that his team is prepared for the upcoming season. With hard work and determination, the Falcons are ready to take the field and compete for victory. The team kicked off their season on March 21st, taking a 6-5 victory over Quince Orchard.