In a sports team, a coach can completely change the way a team functions and the success a team has. But Berkeley High School’s (BHS) baseball team has a bit of a coaching dilemma.
Last year, a 14-12-1 season was highlighted by a win in the West Alameda County Conference (WACC) championship game, but the Berkeley Varsity Baseball team lost longtime coach Matt Bremer.
In an email sent out to the team, Bremer explained that his difficult decision was due to the time commitment. For players, Coach Bremer was more than a coach.
Along with his hard work during practices and games, Coach Bremer was well known for his devotion to the baseball program as a whole. By picking great coaches for the junior varsity (JV) and freshman teams, he helped ensure success for the future.
An anonymous varsity player said, “He took care of the fields day in and day out, which was very appreciated.” The player also said, “He had a very big impact on the baseball program as a whole.”
Many things remain uncertain for the program. With a new coach, the chemistry of the team could change.
However, the players stay optimistic; “Over the two years I was there, we got better, with a new coach and a new approach to the season, that could change the team’s success.”
Despite Bremer’s departure, the program could continue to improve. The Britta Fjelstrom , the Athletic Director, is in the process of finding a new coach.
Finding the right person for the job is always difficult. For this position Fjelstrom said that she will be looking for a replacement with many of the same qualities Coach Bremer had.
She said, “We look for coaches who will partner with us to create a program that teaches sportsmanship, integrity, discipline, respect and commitment.”
The team and school will miss Coach Bremer, but with a new coach coming, all signs point to the program continuing to improve.