Male athlete of the month: Brett Conine

This year, the El Modena baseball team is looking to contend for the league championship and return to the CIF playoffs. The Vanguards have been working all off-season to improve their team and have high hopes for the season. One of the biggest contributors to their team will be the hard-throwing senior pitcher, Brett Conine.

Conine recently received a scholarship offer to pitch at Cal State Fullerton where he will compete for a spot in the starting rotation. Topping out at 91 mph, Conine’s velocity and precision put him ahead of most other high school pitchers, most of whom reach the mid to high 80s. Occasionally, Conine can be found playing third base.

With the help of senior shortstop Paul Gomez, senior right fielder Tyler Wagner, and junior catcher Dominic Casteau, Conine hopes El Modena will win league and advance deep into the CIF tournament. Coach Kliner, who is in his eighth year as head coach, will lead the Vanguards into the inaugural season of Crestview League play. Conine said, “[Coach Kliner] is always pushing us, he wants us to do our best and have fun out there.”

Although the team is very senior heavy, freshman AJ Esperanza will see significant playing time. Even in the tough Century Conference, El Modena will contend for the league title this season.

After a long off-season, and many tiring practices, spring has arrived and it is time for the Vanguards to take the field. Come out and watch the El Modena Vanguard baseball team this year.

—Noah Zedek