Baseball is Back, with One Big Difference
Dallas College North Lake's baseball team kicked off the 2023 season, and even though the game is full of tradition, there is one big change coming to the Blazer diamond this spring.
For the first time since the spring of 2004, Corey Mercer will not be at the helm of the Blazers baseball program. Mercer transitioned to a new role as the fitness center manager, but is confident about who is now overseeing the program. Two familiar faces will be sharing the responsibilities of the Blazer "Skipper" this spring.
Stepping in as the interim head coach is North Lake Athletic Director Greg Sommers. Sommers is no stranger to coaching Blazer baseball. He was previously Mercer's assistant prior to becoming the athletic director. Sommers will certainly have a lot on his plate, keeping up with both duties, but has long-time assistant baseball coach David Strange at his side.
When asked about his thoughts on Mercer changing roles, Strange said, "I am very excited for him. He is happy, and in a position that will allow all athletes and students on campus to benefit from what he has to offer. He has been a true friend and mentor to me. Players, students, staff and fellow coaches, they all love him."
Strange went on to add, "This team is primed to be a special group. We've only improved from a team that was No. 6 in the nation last season. We will make tremendous growth as a team and as young men, under the leadership of Coach Sommers. I mean the man is a major in the Marines. You don't get a better leader than an officer who leads Marines. Not only has he been a great administrator for Coach Mercer and I, but he has his own skins on-the-wall as a college player and coach. I feel great about knowing I am working with someone who is as passionate about the future of this program as I am."
Sommers shares Strange's optimism about this season.
"Mercer and Strange have done a great job with baseball," he said. "Both men reflect the dedication, passion and commitment I want from an individual leading a program like ours. I am excited to work side by side with Coach Strange, who is a well-respected and well-connected coach in the college ranks. Under Coach Mercer, and through his recruiting efforts, he has been instrumental in the success of this program, turning it into a perennial nationally-ranked program. His efforts developing young men have been rewarded with countless players receiving scholarships from university programs. We are going to make a great team."
The Blazers look to build on last year's success as they enter the year receiving votes and recognition in the national polls.