As Bridgton Academy joins a growing list of schools still uncertain as to whether or not students will be allowed to return to campus, the fallout from it continues to be a harsh reminder in how life has transformed ever since the coronavirus entered our borders.
The Bridgton baseball team, following a productive fall campaign, was looking forward to seeing that success carry into the spring. However, once word got out that Bridgton was planning to cancel all spring extra-curricular activities and proceed in having online classes from home, it caused some major trepidation within the program.
As the baseball landscape has continued to take shape over the last few weeks, it's become clear that Bridgton may become a popular destination for uncommitted seniors who are looking for a destination to showcase their skills next fall and spring.
"We have run the same gamut that other institutions have had to endure," Bridgton athletic director and head baseball coach Aaron Izaryk said. "While we, as coaches and programs, have a hard time with these decisions and the realities of them, I've found myself reminding, not only my players, but myself as well, that you cannot put the athletic horse ahead of the academic or community health cart. That said, we were extremely excited to follow up a very successful fall with our usual competitive spring schedule highlighted by a trip to Bradenton, Fla., to play in the inaugural Post-Grad World Series hosted by IMG Academy. Our trip to IMG was scheduled for April 23-26, and was the cornerstone of our spring, so that one hurt the guys and coaching staff."
