Coach Casey Burrill

COVID-19 Daily Blog

Finished- 9/27/20

Started- 3/13/20


Sunday September 27, 2020-

Night before our first practice/conditioning! This will be the first time on the field with the players and coaches since our varsity win over Canyon on March 11. HERE is the practice plan for tomorrow.

Reminder, mandatory Zoom meeting tomorrow for all players at 12:45. Then optional conditioning at 2:45 at Wildcat Field!

Parent meeting tomorrow night at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link.

This will be the last daily blog entry. It was started on Friday March 13. Appreciate all the loyal readers and those who commented via text and email. I said all along, once we get back on the field with the players and coaches, then this daily blog will end. You can view all the old daily blog entries HERE.

So here is Coach Casey Burrill signing-off, to hopefully never retrurn to this form of communication again! It has been one heck of a ride!

Stay safe!


Saturday September 26, 2020-

Couple more days and then we are back on Wildcat Field!

Players must be in Zoom meetings at 12:45 on each conditioning day Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Conditioning then starts at 2:45pm and will last for 1 hour.

Parent meeting on Monday September 28 at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link.

Stay safe!


Friday September 25, 2020-

We are looking forward to next week and our first 3 days of WR Baseball since March. Looks like hot, windy, and some smoke in the air. We will adjust all workouts accordingly. Coaches have been given heat index apps for their phones. Anything over 105 and we will cancel practice. Anything over 95 and we will modify. Please have the players bring plenty of water. The canteen will not be open. Dirking fountain will be off. Players cannot share drinks.

Players must be in Zoom meetings at 12:45 on each conditioning day.

Parent meeting also on Monday September 28 at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link.

Have a great weekend1

Stay safe!


Thursday September 24, 2020-

Once we start back with players on the field with coaches, this daily blog will end. Monday September 28 at 2:45pm is our first day back! What a journey it has been. Can't wait for Monday.

Parent meeting next Monday September 28 at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link.

Have a great weekend!

Stay safe!


Wednesday September 23, 2020-

Taught from school today. Good to see my brother, Coach Lindgreen, and Coach Lopez. I took my drone to school today. HERE is the video I took.

Parent meeting next Monday September 28 at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link.

We will see the boys tomorrow at 12:45. We had some tech issues at school today that forced us to cancel our player meeting today.

Stay safe!


Tuesday September 22, 2020-

Hope everyone's Monday went well. Dodgers take the penant, again... Now get that World Series Trophy!!

Next parent meetign will be Monday September 28, the night of our first on campus workout. We will have plenty to talk about!

Thought you all might want to read the latest message from CIF to member schools-

Southern Section Principals and Athletic Directors:

The CIF State office has asked us to clarify something regarding the summer period as there are some schools wanting to play contests during this period. As we stated in our release on July 20 (see below), those types of activities may not take place until allowed by the appropriate state and local agencies. 

Temporary Extension of Bylaws 501.F and 501.G (Summer Period) 

Given that the CIF has moved the start of its traditional seasons of sport to December 2020, once allowed by the appropriate state and local agencies, CIF Sections may extend their summer period up until the first date of their Fall regular season sports calendar. (For the CIF Southern Section, that date is December 12, 2020.) All summer period activities must be authorized by the member school’s principal/designee. As per CIF Article 23, local schools, school districts, leagues, and Sections may develop a more restrictive rule than the CIF State Office with respect to the aforementioned Bylaws.

As of today, the following statement from the California Department of Public Health remains in effect for our schools:

"Outdoor and indoor sporting events, assemblies, dances, rallies, field trips, and other activities that require close contact or that would promote congregating are not permitted at this time. For example, tournaments, events, or competitions, regardless of whether teams are from the same school or from different schools, counties, or states are not permitted at this time." 


Monday September 21, 2020-

Message from our AP in charge of WR Athletics-

Good afternoon Wildcats, 

This is very important information for any student that participates in a Wildcat Athletics Program!  Please read the entire email.  

As you have seen the district email that was sent regarding Voluntary Athletic Conditioning, I would like to provide further information about how we at West Ranch will be moving forward with your student’s safety as our number one priority.   

This year will be functioning with Fall and Spring sports as set by CIF.  

Fall sports include: Boys & Girls Volleyball, Cross Country, Cheer, & Football

Spring sports include: Baseball, Softball, Boys & Girls Basketball, Boys & Girls Golf, Boys & Girls Soccer, Boys & Girls Lacrosse, Boys & Girls Tennis, Swim & Dive, and Track & Field.

Students can only participate in one Fall sport and one Spring sport this year.  Please double check the seasons above to see if the sports you play conflict.  If you have questions, please email the Athletic Director over your sport below.  

A voluntary conditioning program will begin for all students currently enrolled in an athletic class.  Students who are not currently enrolled in an 8th or 9th period athletic class will need to wait to try-out before they can begin attending.  Tryouts will be held at a later date.  For questions about a specific sport, please contact the head coach via email.  

Voluntary Condition program will begin on the following dates:

September 21 - Fall Sports

September 28 - Spring Sports

The time and location of your student’s voluntary conditioning program will be set by your coach.  Coaches will notify students through their Google Classroom prior to the start date.  

This voluntary conditioning program is not tied to the grade in the athletic class; however, it is an opportunity for students to see one another, get out of the house, and return to a place they love, West Ranch.  There are very specific protocols (see attached) set by LA County Department of Public Health and William S. Hart School District.  All conditioning programs will be held outside and students must have their own equipment (facemask, athletic gear/workout attire, and water).  At no time will students be allowed inside classrooms, weight room, locker rooms or the gymnasiums.  This program will begin as conditioning only, students will not be using any equipment (balls, bats, sticks, goals, etc.) for their sport.  

To be able to participate in your program's conditioning, student athletes must have completed the following by Friday, September 18th.  Please contact your head coach if you are not sure if you have already completed these two steps.  

  1. Sports Physical (see attachment on West Ranch Athletics website)

  2. AthleticClearance.com (see instructions on West Ranch Athletics website)

Once you receive confirmation that you have completed the above two steps, students will print the following two documents and bring them with you on the first day of camp.  

  1. Student Liability Release Form (See attached) - Must be turned in on first day of camp

  2. Foothill League Student Participation Admission Ticket (See attached) - Must be turned in daily.  

If you do not have access to a printer, please come to West Ranch and pick up any of the forms from the campus supervisors.  Parents/Students can drive up the fire lane and pick up the forms from the front gate, there is no need to exit your vehicle.  This is available Monday through Friday from 7am - 3pm. 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact one of the members of our Athletic Admin team.  

Mrs. Hinze - Assistant Principal over Athletics

Ms. Garcia - Athletic Director over Tennis, Volleyball, Basketball, and Lacrosse

Ms. Konrad - Athletic Director over Athletic Clearance, Girls Soccer, Softball and Track & Field

Mr. Lindgreen - Athletic Director over Cross Country, Football, Golf, Boys Soccer, Baseball, and Swim & Dive

We are very excited to have students back on campus!  Please help us in following all guidelines so that students can continue with this program and further opportunities.  

Mrs. Hinze

Assistant Principal

West Ranch High School

GO WILDCATS!!


Sunday September 20, 2020-

Go HERE to confirm you are set to return to play. We are one week away! Many of our players are missing a valid physical. About 75% of our players are cleared to play as of today. I continue to list player clearance status on our main roster pages Varsity - JV - Freshmen

Can't wait until September 28 at 2:45pm.

Stay safe!


Saturday September 19, 2020-

College football (no USC), Dodgers, NHL Stanley Cup Finals, NBA playoffs, etc... fun sports day.

Was able to see Blake Burrill from Michigan this afternoon. Blake is my cousin Dan Burrill's son. He is a new Marine and is now stationed in Oceanside at Camp Pendleton. Coach Brady Burrill went and got him from Union Station. He will go hiking with us tomorrow morning as well. What an amazing young man!

No parent meeting this week. Player meetings Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 12:45pm.

Stay safe!


Friday September 18, 2020-

Go HERE to confirm you are set to return to play. Many of our players are missing a valid physical. About half of our players are cleared to play as of today. More information about getting cleared is HERE. Please do not assume that you are cleared. I have also started list clearance status on our main roster pages Varsity - JV - Freshmen.

No parent meeting this week. Player meetings Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 12:45pm.

Stay safe!


Thursday September 17, 2020-

Go HERE to confirm you are set to return to play. Many of our players are missing a valid physical. About half of our players are cleared to play as of today. More information about getting cleared is HERE. Please do not assume that you are cleared. I have also started list clearance status on our main roster pages Varsity - JV - Freshmen.

Coach Lopez and Coach Lindgreen crushed it today handing out gear. They enjoyed seeing everyone! If you did not get your JBands, Hat, and Shirt we will hold onto them and give to you on September 28.

West Ranch grad and 5th round pick by the Boston Red Sox joined our player Zoom meeting today to talk about his baseball journey and memories of West Ranch. He is mature beyond his years. We thank Jagger for his time insight

WR Baseball coaches had a Zoom meeting tonight. Great seeing all the coaches again. We are all looking forward to September 28 and what lies ahead for West Ranch Baseball. Being with the players on Wildcat Field is priority number 1. Even if it is under heavy regulations to start with.

Have a great weekend!

Stay safe!


Wednesday September 16, 2020-

JBands, Hat, and T-Shirt pick-up will be tomorrow 2-4pm at front of West Ranch by the main gate. Pick-up will be immediately following our Zoom meeting with Jagger Rusconi.

Go HERE to confirm you are set to return to play. Many of our players are missing a valid physical. About half of our players are cleared to play as of today. More information about getting cleared is HERE. Please do not assume that you are cleared. I have also started list clearance status on our main roster pages Varsity - JV - Freshmen.

The COVID numbers continue to move in the right direction for LA County. October 5 is the big day when we need to be out of the Purple level. Then we need to stay out of Purple for 14 days.

Stay safe!


Tuesday September 15, 2020-

Hat and T-Shirt pick-up will be Thursday 2-4pm at front of West Ranch by the main gate. Pick-up will be immediately following our Zoom meeting with Jagger Rusconi.

Go HERE to confirm you are set to return to play. Many of our players are missing a valid physical. About half of our players are cleared to play as of today. More information about getting cleared is HERE. Please do not assume that you are cleared. I have also started list clearance status on our main roster pages Varsity - JV - Freshmen.

Stay safe!

 


Monday September 14, 2020-

Good chatting with the parents tonight in our Zoom meeting.

Starting September 28, we start conditioning at Wildcat Field. Players must be on Zoom meetings Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 12:45 for roll and special instructions. Then conditioning will be on those same days 2:45-3:45pm.

Go HERE to confirm you are set to return to play. Many of our players are missing a valid physical. About half of our players are cleared to play as of today. More information about getting cleared is HERE. Please do not assume that you are cleared.

Can't wait until September 28!

Guest speaker Jagger Rusconi will join us on Thursday in our player Zoom meeting.

Stay safe!


Sunday September 13, 2020-

Importnat parent meeting tomorrow night at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link.

We have been cleared to start conditioning on Monday September 28!

Details will be given to the boys at 12:45 tomorrow and the parents at 7pm tomorrow night.

Super excited!

Stay safe!


Saturday September 12, 2020-

Teachers are turning in grades this weekend. Look forward to seeing the success of our players in their virtual classrooms.

On Thursday next week, WR alum Jagger Rusconi will join the players for a little Q & A session. He was a 5th round pick by the Boston Red Sox and is an amazing young man. He, like other minor league players, had his summer baseball canceled. We look forward to catching up with him in our Zoom meeting.

Reminder, parent meeting Monday night at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link.

We are getting closer to some WR Baseball, at least in some format. Parents and players, it is time for you to make sure you have been cleared to play. Go HERE to confirm you are all set. Many of our players are missing a valid physical. About half of our players are cleared to play as of today. More information about getting cleared is HERE. Please do not assume that you are all set to play when we get the green light.

Have a great Sunday.

Stay safe!


Friday September 11, 2020-

Parent meeting Monday night. HERE is the Zoom link. Players will meet with coaches on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday next week at 12:45pm.

I do believe we are getting closer to some WR baseball. Not sure what format, but info coming Monday.

Have a great weekend!

Stay safe!


Thursday September 10, 2020-

Tomorrow is the day we will never forget. I was teaching and coaching at Saugus in 2001 and it was a day that will live with me forever.

We are getting closer to some WR Baseball, at least in some format. Parents and players, it is time for you to make sure you have been cleared to play. Go HERE to confirm you are all set. Many of our players are missing a valid physical. About half of our players are cleared to play as of today. More information about getting cleared is HERE. Please do not assume that you are all set to play when we get the green light.

Friday tomorrow, the start of the weekend!

We will have a parent meeting on Monday September 14 at 7pm.

Stay safe everyone.


Wednesday September 9, 2020-

Player meeting tomorrow at 12:45. Long day of screen time...

Mandatory head coaches meeting with our admin tomorrow evening. Maybe I will have some more info to share tomorrow night?!?!?

Go Dodgers!

Stay safe everyone!


Tuesday September 8, 2020-

Coaches chatted with the players about getting their leads at first in today's zoom meeting. Also worked some signs and lingo with the non-returning players. Good stuff. Next player Zoom meeting will be Thursday at 12:45.

The coaching staff continues to work on the field. Getting it ready for a possible return of players and coaches. I keep watching the numbers and rooting forward continued good news.

Have a great Wednesday! Stay safe!


Monday September 7, 2020-

Hope everyone had a great Labor Day weekend!

Player Zoom meetings this week will be tomorrow and Thursday. No parent meeting this week.

Tomorrow will be Monday's schedule. Wednesday will be Tuesday's normal schedule and the normal Wednesday schedule is thrown out this week because we had today off from school. Thursday and Friday will be normal schedules.

Let's have a great week!


Sunday September 6, 2020-

Smokey and hot in Pine Mountain Club, assume you all are experiencing the same. Everyone asks how hot. Well today we hit 90 up here and tomorrow will be the same. I do not think it is too bad, but the locals are a mess. They say they are melting!

Player Zoom meetings next week will be Tuesday and Thursday. No school tomorrow, so Monday schedule of classes gets moved to Tuesday and Tuesday to Wednesday. No parent meeting this week.

Have a great Labor Day!

Stay safe!


Saturday September 5, 2020-

Hope everyone is having a great holiday weekend. Stay safe!


Friday September 4, 2020-

Happy 3-day weekend everyone! It will be nice to be away from the computer screen for a few days. I, like most teachers, am in front of screen for 8-10 hours a day teaching, planning, and grading. I am sure the students are right there with us. Those of you playing baseball over the next few days, I am jealous. I will be playing pickleball but would rather be at Wildcat field grinding

Stay safe!


Thursday September 3, 2020-

Mr Alvarez was amazing today. His chat with the boys was spot on with real life business stories and examples. Our players were treated to a speaker who is an elite businessman who has taken his experiences from baseball as a young man and applied the lessons learned to his business. His story of reinvention himself and his company during the pandemic should be admired and studies by all. We thank him for his time, encouragement, insight, and energy.

According to the district board meeting Wednesday night, the next earliest date we could start a hybrid school model would be October 19. LA County would need at least 2 weeks of the correct

West Ranch leads the way again as one of the top high schools in the country.  HERE is the signal article.

Due to Monday holiday and no school, we will meet with the boys next week Tuesday and Thursday at 12:45pm.

I hope you all have a great 3-day weekend. Let’s keep those COVID numbers moving in the right direction!

Stay safe everyone!


Wednesday September 2, 2020-

Mr. Alvarez will be our guest speaker tomorrow for the players in our 12:45 Zoom meeting. Looking forward to hearing his message.

Next week player Zoom meetings will be Wednesday and Thursday only as we are off Monday to celebrate Labor Day.

Stay safe everyone!


Tuesday September 1, 2020-

Back to school videos are live and on the School Website HERE.

Tomorrow we will meet quickly with the boys at 12:45 and then we have a guest speaker for them on Thursday.

Keep the great week going,,, 3 day weekend coming up!

Stay safe!


Monday August 31, 2020-

Tomorrow is September, this month has had a faster pace for me. Now that we are back in school, I have a daily schedule and plenty to do. Just need some baseball!

Good talking to the parents tonight on Zoom parent meeting. Great seeing everyone.

Back to school is tomorrow night, online of course. Hit the Back-to-School tab located far right of the drop-down menus on the school site. Videos will be live for viewing around 7pm. The videos will remain online for a few weeks.

School board meeting Wednesday night will focus on a new target date for starting the hybrid schedule.

Have a great week!

Stay safe!


Sunday August 30, 2020-

The revised daily class schedule is located HERE. 10 minute passing periods now between classes. WRTV show 4 days a week. Schedule will be a welcome improvement to the distance learning process and it starts tomorrow.

We will have our next parent meeting tomorrow night, August 31 at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link. Looking forward to chatting with all the parents.

We will meet with boys at 12:45 tomorrow.

Tuesday is back to school night at WR. It will be virtual. Look for a Back to School Night email coming tomorrow!

Stay safe everyone!


Saturday August 29, 2020-

The revised daily class schedule is located HERE. 10 minute passing periods now between classes. WRTV show 4 days a week. Schedule will be a welcome improvement to the distance learning process.

We will have our next parent meeting on Monday night, August 31 at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link. Looking forward to chatting with all the parents.

I get a lot of questions about the hybrid school model.  I am not excited about a hybrid return to school model and what that environment on campus will look/feel like. I do believe many families need their kids back at school in any capacity. This would be a welcomed change for those families. I hear all the time from parents that their kids need the social interaction that school brings. Most of our WR baseball players are already spending time and interacting with their friends. The absence of school clubs, sports, and activities is a problem. Many families are giving these opportunities to their children now away from the school.

What will the hybrid school look like? Plastic sheets, plexiglass, masks, social distancing with markers on the ground, constant application of disinfectants, no groups of people on campus, no activities, no club meetings, students staying in classrooms for breaks/lunches, temperature checks, health questions, rotating system for kids between classes, gloves, students cannot interact with anyone when moving around on campus, regulated bathroom breaks, etc... It will not look/feel anything like a normal school day. I think the students will hate it and they would rather be back online after a hybrid experience. The students will also still be online for at least half of their learning experience in a hybrid model. There may be positive COVID test results for those in the hybrid model. How to handle the positive test results and what number may be acceptable is an interesting topic and rather polarizing. It may cost more money to operate the school under a hybrid model.

HOWEVER, if the hybrid model means WR baseball practice in the afternoon... then get me a spacesuit and some disinfectant spray. I will be there, excited, and ready to go!

You all know that teachers want to be in school with kids on campus. They all want everything back to normal. Vast majority of teachers do not think online learning is better than traditional on campus learning. A hybrid teaching system does not appeal to most of the educators and many believe it is not a better option than all online learning. This is what I hear from my colleagues.

Hope you have a great Sunday! I miss you all!

Stay safe everyone!


Friday August 28, 2020-

We will have our next parent meeting on Monday night, August 31 at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link. Looking forward to chatting with all the parents.

Trying to figure out Governor Newsom's new County color rating system and the opening of campus and/or the start of athletic practices. I will share what I am hearing with the players on Monday at 12:45pm and the parents at 7pm in our meetings.

Back-to-school night on Tuesday September 1 will be virtual. All the teachers are making videos regarding their classes. Other programs and the administration are doing the same. I will be posting all these videos on the school website and it will go live on Tuesday.

The coaching staff, led by Coach Juan Lopez, has been working like crazy on our baseball field. It will be ready when we are!

Have a great weekend. Those playing baseball, know I wish I were with you.

Stay safe!


Thursday August 27, 2020-

Coach Wagner did a great job speaking with the players today. He talked about this year being the year of injuries. He gave the boys some tips on how to stay healthy during the pandemic and eventual restart of baseball. We are extremely fortunate to have Coach Wagner on our West Ranch Baseball staff.

Tomorrow is Friday! I hope everyone has a great weekend full of what you enjoy.

Stay safe everyone!


Wednesday August 26, 2020-

Our guest speakers from Jaeger Sports were amazing yesterday. Jim Vatcher and China McCarney explained and demonstrated how to correctly do arm circles, JBand exercises, and long toss. West Ranch Baseball cannot thank them enough. For the most part, our players were present with their cameras on and engaged in what they were being taught. We were extremely fortunate to have 2 arm care specialists spend time with our boys.

Tomorrow Coach Jim Wagner will expand upon what our players heard today. We look forward to his 8th period presentation.

The new class schedules with more time between classes will start on Monday August 31.

Let's finish off a great week.

Stay safe everyone!


Tuesday August 25, 2020-

Jim Vatcher from Jaeger Sports will present today during our 8th period Zoom class. He is always a highlight of every WR Baseball fall season.

Looks like the district will be updating the weekly schedule for classes starting Monday next week. At the request of students and teachers, the district will increase the time between classes. This will be a much-needed change.

Let's keep the great week rolling!

Stay safe!


Monday August 24, 2020-

Excited for 2 guest speakers this week. Jim Vatcher from Jaeger Sports and Coach Wagner will both discuss techniques that promote healthy throwing arms. They will also discuss building arm strength during unusual times.

Keep the great week going!

Stay safe!


Sunday August 23, 2020-

"Normal" schedule this week for classes. Baseball players will meet tomorrow, Wednesday, and Thursday at 12:45pm. Reminder, players are expected to be in the Zoom meetings on time with their name in the chat room for attendance. This is not optional. No parent meeting this week.

Back-to-school night will be Tuesday September 1st. It will be a virtual this year. More information coming soon.

"College Admissions Workshop for Seniors and Parents" will be held on August 26th at 6:30pm as a Live Webinar. To Register click the following link: Register in advance for this webinar https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jz5TS1xOQR65KCFMI07WMQ

Let's have a great week!

Stay safe!


Saturday August 22, 2020-

Fun Dodgers walk-off tonight! Enjoying the sports on TV, NHL second round playoff, Lakers, and Dodgers made for a great night of sports.

No parent meeting this week. I will see the boys on our Zoom meeting Monday at 12:45pm.

Stay safe everyone!


Friday August 21, 2020-

It is the weekend! We all survived our first full week of a five-day school schedule. Well done! My classes are going well. Hopefully all our players are off to a great start in each of their courses.

Nest week we have player meetings on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Each Zoom meeting will start at 12:45. We have guest speakers lined up for both Wednesday and Thursday.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Stay safe!


Thursday August 20, 2020-

Encourage your son to get to baseball class on time and sign the chat room. They have been reminded of this, but we are still having problems. Their name in the chatroom is how we take roll at our 3 class meetings each week. Attendance is not optional. Our baseball class should be treated like any of their other 5 courses. There have also been a few players who have not completed their workouts for this week. This is also not optional. While we are on distance learning the workouts assigned on Mondays are how they will be evaluated for their baseball PE grade.

We will continue to make the classes something that will be relevant and insightful.  We have lined up several guest speakers who will share their knowledge of the baseball environment.

Lots of smoke in SCV and surrounding areas. The heat continues as well. Be smart and be safe!


Wednesday August 19, 2020-

We had a solid Zoom meeting today in 8th period baseball. Our guest was JC Cloney, a West Ranch alum. He shared with us his journey from West Ranch to the minor leagues. Along the way, the current Kansas City Royals left hander, pitched at three different colleges. Long Beach State, COC, and eventually the University of Arizona. He is the only pitcher in College World Series history to throw a complete game shutout. He was recently named the Kansas City Royals minor league pitcher of the year. His insight into the baseball world after West Ranch was eye opening. We appreciate JC offering to spend time with our boys.

Tomorrow we have our last baseball Zoom meeting of the week. Workouts are due.

Stay cool and stay safe!


Tuesday August 18, 2020-

We had a chance to work on the field today. It was refreshing, even in the smokey 113-degree conditions. Coach Lindgreen, Coach Lopez, and I got the infield up and running. We could have played a game today. It would not have been a great looking field, but we are playable. Reminder, no one is allowed at our facility or on campus grounds.

Tomorrow is our first regular Wednesday where all our classes meet for a short time. We have a guest speaker for our baseball Zoom meeting at 12:45pm tomorrow.

Stay safe!


Monday August 17, 2020-

Good chatting with the parents last night. We will do another parent Zoom meeting in a couple weeks.

Players have their first set of workouts now; they should complete them by 8th period baseball class on Thursday.

1st day of the second week of school was great today. Taught a bunch of content and the students ate it up. I will take it!

Have a great week everyone and stay safe!


Sunday August 16, 2020-

Week 2 of school tomorrow. Look forward to starting our first full week. We will have 2 baseball meetings tomorrow. 8th Period player Zoom link- HERE and the 7pm parent meeting Zoom Link- HERE

Coach Lindgreen and I are going to start working on the baseball field once a week. We will start on Tuesday this week. Players and parents may NOT join us. We still have a closed campus to all but permitted school staff. Coach Lindgreen and I will need to social distance, wear masks, and disinfect.

Please remind your boys to behave in class this week. They must stay positive and follow the online guidelines while in Zoom or Google Meet classes.

Our 8th period baseball class will meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday this week. Class will start at 12:45 and end 30-60 minutes after the start. Reminder, all player workouts are due via Google Classroom on Thursday before baseball class.

Virtual Back to School Night will be on Tuesday, Sept. 1st. More details coming soon.

Let's have a great week!

Stay safe!


Saturday August 15, 2020-

We had an incredible thunderstorm roll through the mountains yesterday. Hail and flooding. Was awesome.

Monday is player meeting at 12:45pm and parent meeting at 7pm. PArent meeting Zoom link HERE. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Stay safe everyone!


Friday August 14, 2020-

Weekend! My butt is tired of sitting and my voice hurts and cuts in and out. But I love my new students and classes. This is going to be a great semester, even if we stay online!

Monday is player meeting at 12:45pm and parent meeting at 7pm.

Enjoy the weekend and stay cool. I hope your power stays on...

Stay safe!


Thursday August 13, 2020-

Solid day in class today. First time having classes for a second day. Three AP classes this morning, 36 students each period, and only 1 absence. They were focused and on task. What an amazing group!

I am sitting in front a screen for 5 hours in a row. Really no break at all. So are our students. Going to see how I can get myself and students up and moving. I will put in some research this weekend. I am so stiff and sore by the time I am done with teaching. I can only assume the students are as well.

Have a great Friday and a great weekend. Player meeting Monday at 12:45pm and parent meeting at 7pm.

Stay safe!


Wednesday August 12, 2020-

2nd day of school in the books. Met with the players again today. We will not meet tomorrow or on Friday this week. On Monday next week the players will be given their workout assignment for the week. It will be due on Thursday next week via our baseball Google Classroom. We will also be on our normal baseball class Zoom schedule next week which consists of meetings on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The meetings will start at 12:45pm and last for 30-60 minutes. We also plan on having our first guest speaker next week. Looking forward to getting into a routine.

There have been a few bahavioral issues come up in Zoom and Google Meet classes for some teachers at WR. Please remind our players that they will need to behave in class. Remind them that poor behavior will not be tolerated and our school tech/admin team is on it.

You can check out my wife's Facebook page for some bear excitement earlier today while we both were online using Zoom with our students. I missed the entire event as I was in full teacher mode. I did hear some banging, crashing, and barking but just dismissed it as the dogs rough housing. We can now officially say we had a bear try and break in to our house.

Some of you have checked on us because of the fire. We are a long way from the Lake Fire. We are on the other side of 5 freeway and 30 minutes west of the 5.

Parent Zoom meeting next Monday at 7pm. I miss you all!

Looking forward to finishing the week strong. Stay safe!


Tuesday August 11, 2020-

My students today were amazing. I had all three of my AP Computer Science classes. These 108 students are the best of the best. I had only one missing student on the day. These youngsters were all attentive, energetic, and ready to go. Loved my first day, although I am tired. All that talking and now all that sitting, I need to get into online teacher shape!

Love sharing this news from our principal- "Once again, West Ranch was ranked as one of the Top 5% of High Schools in the Nation according to the 2020 U.S. News and World Report rankings!!  We have an amazing staff with incredible teachers, and above all outstanding students.  With you support, we are looking to do the same this year!"

We have now changed our 8th period baseball PE class to Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday each week starting at 12:45pm. Zoom link for the baseball class is at the top of this webpage. We had our first baseball PE class zoom meeting today. It was fine. Not what we all want for our PE class. But it was great to see all the players together.

Next parent meeting will be Monday August 17 at 7pm. Zoom link coming soon.

Stay safe everyone!


Monday August 10, 2020-

And so, it begins... School starts tomorrow. I am ready, are you?

HERE is the Zoom link for baseball class tomorrow at 1:40pm. The link is also at the top of this page. I am trying to use the same link for each of the baseball meetings.

This daily blog will continue, as long as we are not back together on Wildcat Field. Once we start practicing, this blog will stop. So keep checking back for daily info.

Go get'em tomorrow! We got this!

Stay safe!


Sunday August 9, 2020-

School is just a couple days away now!

There was a great email sent out to the parents from our principal Mr. Crawford. HERE is a link to that email. Lots of information about the start of the fall semester via distance learning.

Tomorrow the teachers have one last training and get ready day. I am excited to be with my students virtually on Tuesday morning. We will make a it a great semester!

The coaching staff will see all the WR players Tuesday at 1:40pm. We will post a Zoom link here on the baseball website tomorrow night. Do not forget, we will be taking roll.

Stay safe!


Saturday August 8, 2020-

Solid day of quality family time celebrating a couple August birthdays and anniversaries.

Looking forward to the start of school on Tuesday!

I think the next Zoom meeting should be next Monday August 17. That would give us a week into the fall semester and a chance to talk about how things are going.

Stay safe!


Friday August 7, 2020-

Feeling even better now after another day of training. The teachers will be ready for Tuesday. There is energy and optimism amongst the staff. Does not mean there will not be any hiccups the first week. But the teachers will give it their all and learning will occur. I am excited!

There is still a lot of movement with student schedules. So, check 'Monday night, that should be your fall schedule. Remember, look for emails from teachers on Tuesday morning before school. This emails will have Google Meet and Zoom links for class that day.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Stay safe!


Thursday August 6, 2020-

It was a solid day of learning how to teach online. Was also great to "see" all my co-workers again. I do need to get used to getting on a schedule. I am sure our players will struggle with that next week as well.

Each WR student must check their school Gmail early Tuesday morning to receive their meeting links that will be sent out by their teachers. All teachers will be using Google Meet or Zoom for their class lectures.

Teachers will take roll at the start of each class. They will also interact with the students throughout each 75-minute classes. Periods 2, 3, and 4 will meet on Mondays and Thursdays while periods 5, 6, and 7 will meet on Tuesdays and Fridays. On Wednesdays, every class will meet and will be a quick 37 minutes. The Wednesday schedule will be taken out of the weekly rotation if there is a non-school day during the week. For example, next week, we do not have school on Monday. So, the normal Wednesday schedule will be removed from the weekly schedule. The first day of school Tuesday August 11 will be periods 2, 3, 4 (treated like a Monday) and Wednesday will be 5, 6, and 7 (treated like a Tuesday). Thursday and Friday will be normal distance learning schedules. Does that make sense?

Do not forget that periods 1, 8, and 9 meet every day no matter what day or schedule it is. Our baseball class is period 8. We will Zoom meet each day at 1:40pm. We will be taking roll each day.

Period 2 and 5 will have advisory time making those periods 90 minutes on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. News, information, pledge of allegiance, etc... will be conducted during those periods. WRTV will air each Friday during 5th period.

So, a bunch going on. Excited to get it going and meet my kids. Wish there would be some WR baseball, but for now I will enjoy what I got.

Some of you have reached out to me saying that we can have baseball practice now following new health guidelines. That is not the case for our school district sports. We will not be able to have any contact with our players or our facility until we have students on campus for daily classes.

Stay safe!


Wednesday August 5, 2020-

Even though all the teachers I know have been prepping for this coming school year for weeks, tomorrow we all officially report back to school. Three days of training and exploring new ways to teach online starts in the morning. I am ready, cannot wait to meet my new students on Tuesday next week.

Stay safe everyone!


Tuesday August 4, 2020-

School starts one week from today!

I have placed the daily schedule and calendar at the top of our site so you can see what the first 5 weeks of online learning will look like. Remember, each of our players will need to be in a video meeting with their teacher during each of their scheduled classes. 8th period baseball PE class is no exception. We will meet via Zoom every school day at 1:40pm. Let me know if you have any questions. HERE is all the district infomration about our 2020-2021 school year.

We finally found a varsity Spring Break tournament that will fit our needs and our spring break dates. It is the long running Babe Herman Tournament hosted by Crescenta Valley. This will give us strong competition and keep us as close to home as possible. We will be able to host some tournament games as well. We appreciate the WR baseball spies who were on the tournament hunt for us. The spring break tournament has now been added to our finished 2021 spring schedule HERE.

Now several members of the St. Louis Cardinals have come down with COVID. Nightmare! Looks like the NBA and NHL bubbles are working. Where is our WR Baseball bubble?!?!?!

Have a great week and stay safe!


Monday August 3, 2020-

Thanks for all who joined us tonight for our Zoom meeting. We will meet in a couple weeks online once school is up and running. 1 week from tomorrow the school year starts! Our first 8th period Zoom class will be on Tuesday August 11 at 1:40pm. Cannot wait to get it started! Every day is a day closer to some WR Baseball.

HERE is the fall schedule I referenced tonight. And HERE is the varsity roster at this point and HERE is JV.

Have a great last week!

Stay safe!


Sunday August 2, 2020-

HERE is the link to our Zoom meeting tomorrow at 7pm. Everyone is welcome.

Well Kershaw looked good tonight. That was fun.

Looking forward to the Zoom chat tomorrow night.

Stay safe!


Saturday August 1, 2020-

HERE is the link to our Monday Zoom meeting at 7pm. Everyone is welcome.

Have a great Sunday and I will see everyone on Zoom Monday night at 7pm.

Stay safe!


Friday July 31, 2020-

Another long month comes to an end today. Maybe the pace for me, and all of us, will pick-up when we start school August 11. I know we will be online and there will not be WR baseball, but at least we all can have a schedule. We will have work to do each day. Students and teachers will be interacting and conversing daily. I really look forward to catching a groove and getting to know my new students.

My son and I tried pickleball with the mountain folk today. Then we tried our hand at archery and ended up buying some bows and arrows. Looking forward to flining some arrows tomorrow and hitting some pickleballs. Many of you cannot picture me doing either one of these activities. Haha! Let's just say, I will not be turning pro anytime soon, but I did have fun and look forward to doing each activity again.

Darn MLB baseball! More games getting postponed. The NBA and NHL bubbles seem to be working. I am not hopeful for football at any level as I believe they will be like the MLB and will not have bubbles. When do we start the WR baseball bubble?!?!

HERE is the link to our Monday Zoom meeting at 7pm. Everyone is welcome.

Stay safe everyone and have a great weekend!


Thursday July 30, 2020-

HERE is the link to our Monday Zoom meeting at 7pm. Everyone is welcome.

We will chat more at the meeting, but there will not be practice for any sports in our district for the first 5 weeks of the fall semester. While students are learning via online instruction only, then we will not be allowed to meet and/or use our facility. WR campus will remain closed, including the baseball field. The players will be enrolled in our 8th period baseball class. When you get class schedules please confirm that the 8th period baseball class is on your schedule. If not, please contact me. Players will meet each day online to take attendance and check in with the coaching staff. WR Baseball skills will be taught including signs, theories, beliefs, plays, and etiquette. Coaches will also be providing players with workouts to complete. We will be monitoring all player baseball activities and logging them. Participating in all these activities will result in the player receiving credit for the baseball class and earning their PE units.

Obviously, once we get the OK to do any baseball at WR then we will start immediately. Players are encouraged to do what they think is right for themselves and their family. Some will go play baseball elsewhere. We support that. Others will continue to hunker down and avoid contact with others. We support that as well.

Looking forward to giving more information on Monday and answering questions.

We are still not collecting any monthly donations until we start incurring costs. Refunds for summer camp have been approved by the district and are now being processed. Refund checks will be mailed to each family. I hear the good old-fashioned “check is in the mail” quote coming. If you have not received a refund check by end of August, please let me know.

If you are playing baseball have fun and try to stay safe. If you are following stay at home orders, stay safe and find some fun.

Miss you all!


Wednesday July 29, 2020-

It is a sad day in the college baseball community. Mike Gillespie (Skip), my coach at USC, passed away this morning. He is most influential person in my life outside my immediate family. Everyone who played for him would say the same thing. He believed in me, trusted me, pushed me, disciplined me, and made me a better person. I will miss him. RIP Skip. Thanks to all who reached out to me yesterday, it was heartwarming. HERE is the USC press release.

The SCV parks are now closing because of illegal sports gatherings and group activities. This is making it more difficult for local baseball players to get together and workout/play. I feel for those of you looking for a place to enjoy baseball. Watching the COVID numbers, I also understand why the no gathering orders are in place. I understand and appreciate all sides of the COVID debate. I want WR baseball, I also want my family, community, and friends healthy and safe.

HERE is a link to our new winter schedule so you can follow along as we put opponents in place. We have a new spring schedule ready to go! 2021 schedule is HERE. Our next WR Baseball family Zoom meeting will be Monday August 3 at 7pm.

I have a WR head coaches meeting tomorrow afternoon. There should be some useful information coming our way.

Stay safe, I miss you all!


Tuesday July 28, 2020-

Waiting for word from the district athletic meeting this morning. Tomorrow morning at the district board meeting they will finalize some return to school regulations. As I find out information, I will share with all of you.

I know many of our players are playing baseball in some capacity. The West Ranch baseball coaching staff supports this. We recommend these players follow all the recommended health guidelines. Some players are not playing in games or practicing with others, we support those players and their family decisions as well. Players not practicing or playing games should be working out on their own. There is not a suggested plan from the WR coaching staff. Each individual family needs to decide what works for them with risk vs reward in mind. We love, miss, and support any decision you and your family make.

After chatting with college coaches and pro scouts/coaches, we have decided to start playing Ranchers games in January. There are many reasons for this, but the main reason is arm health. I will discuss more in our Zoom meeting next Monday night. HERE is a link to our new winter schedule so you can follow along as we put opponents in place.

We have a new spring schedule ready to go! 2021 schedule is HERE.

Our next WR Baseball family Zoom meeting will be Monday August 3 at 7pm.

The WR coaches wish you all the best during these uncertain times. Stay safe everyone!


Monday July 27, 2020-

District meeting tomorrow and board meeting Wednesday. Next Zoom meeting will be on Monday August 3rd at 7pm.

After chatting with college coaches and pro scouts/coaches, we have decided to start playing Ranchers games in January. There are many reasons for this, but the main reason is arm health. I will discuss more in our Zoom meeting next Monday night. HERE is a link to our new winter schedule so you can follow along as we put opponents in place.

We have a new spring schedule ready to go! 2021 schedule is HERE.

The COVID-19 outbreak in the Marlins is concerning. These are organizations with the best health experts and deep pockets. Not a great sign.

Take care everyone, stay safe!


Sunday July 26, 2020-

T-Dog and Karate Joe came up to the mountains to visit me tonight. Great to see them. Had a chance to see a couple students too. Man, I sure do miss everyone! When do we get to go to school and play some baseball!?!?

District meeting Tuesday and board meeting Wednesday. Thinking Zoom meeting for all of us on Monday August 3rd at 7pm.

I hate the Giants.

Stay safe everyone and have a great week.


Saturday July 25, 2020-

Some of you have asked for the link to the district plan for starting the fall semester. HERE you go.

I am hearing that another district meeting regarding athletics is taking place on Tuesday. I think our next Zoom meeting should be Monday August 3rd. So, a week from this coming Monday.

My Dodgers cannot go undefeated?

Love all the text messages, emails, and pictures of everyone. Miss you all!

Have a great Sunday, and stay safe!


Friday July 24, 2020-

Dodgers are 2-0 and the Giants are 0-2, nice!

We have started to work on our winter schedule with the thought that we can start playing games in January. HERE is a link to our in-progress schedule. Obviously, we could start playing earlier or later depending on when we can start full practices with bullpens.

I miss you all, stay safe!


Thursday July 23, 2020-

It is rare that I get to sit down and watch an entire baseball game on TV. Tonight, because of the pandemic, I was able to watch the Dodgers beat the Giants. That was really a good time. Way to go MLB, love having live baseball back!

Still waiting on fall practice decision from the district. That will give us some clarity on what the first 5 weeks of school will look like. Once our league produces a spring league baseball schedule, then I can get started on a spring schedule. Working on games to play before our season now.

Stay safe everyone!


Wednesday July 22, 2020-

Coach Wife backpacked from Yosemite to Mammoth this week. Trip got cut a day short because of some weather. She said amazing sights with great ladies. She is tired and sore. I am proud of her. She will post pictures on her social media accounts tomorrow.

Want to thank Coach Lindgreen for pinch hitting for me tonight during the Zoom meeting. Received a few messages that he was great and had some information about the upcoming fall and the 2021 spring season.

Another Zoom meeting will come your way late next week as we continue to gather information about our upcoming school year.

Stay safe everyone!


Tuesday July 21, 2020-

We will have a Zoom meeting 7pm tomorrow night. HERE is the link to our Zoom meeting. Everyone is welcome to join our Zoom meeting.

District athletic meeting was this morning. My understanding is that our district did adopt the new CIF calendar and will work to make all sports playable this year using the new athletic calendar. They decided that there will be no summer camps. They are now working on how to refund families for the summer payment.

There are some decisions to be made in terms of practicing as we start distance learning August 11. Looks like the William S Hart school board will need to consider safety and liability issues. Will they allow us to practice under heavy health restrictions right away, or will we need to wait for the restrictions to ease? Do we need to wait until students are back on campus? If we can practice starting August 11, what would practice look like?

See everyone on Zoom tomorrow night.

Stay safe!


Monday July 20, 2020-

So, CIF did its thing today, they set a calendar for the 2020-2021 school year. You can watch their press conference HERE.

As expected, all sports have been pushed back to the spring semester. Baseball has the following dates-

First Contest Date – Friday, March 19, 2021
Sit Out Period (Transfers)– Friday, April 23, 2021 (36 days)
Last League Contest – Friday, May 28, 2021
Last Allowable Contest Date – Saturday, May 29, 2021 (72 days)
CIF Southern Section Championship Finals – Friday/Saturday, June 18/19, 2021
CIF Southern Regional Championship Finals – Saturday, June 26, 2021

We will need a complete re-do of our 2021 spring schedule. We will work on it starting Thursday this week. A league schedule is needed to put together our spring schedule. Our district will start working on the Foothill League schedule ASAP.

What will our fall baseball look like? That decision will fall upon our district. Tomorrow the school district athletic administrators will get together to discuss. We are hoping to be cleared to practice in some capacity. Here is what CIF says about the fall-

Once we had to cancel the remainder of our Spring sports season in April, the decision was made to have our schools go immediately into Summertime Rules, meaning your athletic programs are under the authority of the high school principal. It has been decided that Summertime Rules will be extended from when the school year begins in August/September through December and the beginning of Fall sports. As schools open and students return, provided state and local health authorities deem it safe to do so, schools can begin their pre-season preparations as they see fit, depending on what is allowed by health authorities during that time period. The only real difference is if the principal allows teams to represent member schools as school teams during the off-season during the school year, schools will be allowed to do so during the 2020-2021 school year.

We will have a Zoom meeting 7pm on Wednesday night. HERE is the link to our Zoom meeting. Everyone is welcome to join our Zoom meeting.

Stay safe everyone!


Monday July 20, 2020-

It was good seeing everyone tonight on our Zoom meeting. Looking forward to having more information for all of you next Wednesday July 22. That will be our next Zoom meeting date.

If you have an hour plus and want to hear health experts give information to the Hart District teachers, HERE is a link to the recording. If you are trying to decide if you want your son to go full online distance learning or in the classroom instruction using the hybrid model, then this would be a great video for you to watch.

Stay safe everyone!


Sunday July 19, 2020-

Tomorrow is the much-anticipated CIF meeting/announcement regarding the 2020-2021 high school sports schedule. Meeting starts at 9am.

Tuesday, the district athletic minds will gather to then plan our district sports based upon the CIF schedule.

We will have a Zoom meeting 7pm on Wednesday night. HERE is the link to our Zoom meeting.

Stay safe!


Saturday July 18, 2020-

Reminders, CIF meeting Monday setting the sports calendar for 2020-2021 school year. District athletic meeting on Tuesday. We will have a Zoom meeting 7pm on Wednesday night. HERE is the link to our Zoom meeting.

Stay safe!


Friday July 17, 2020-

Governor Newsom has closed all on campus classes and activities. He is mandating that schools located in the counties that are on his watch list go online to start the school year. He has also put together plans for when schools reopen with their hybrid model.

HERE is a ABC News article about his guidelines.

Reminders, CIF meeting Monday setting the sports calendar for 2020-2021 school year. District athletic meeting on Tuesday. We will have a Zoom meeting 7pm on Wednesday night.

Stay safe everyone.


Thursday July 16, 2020-

HERE is the link to the district information about the start to the fall semester. At the bottom of the district page is a PDF file that includes more information and the daily schedules for high school and junior high.

Appreciate you all keeping me in the loop of our players baseball adventures. Keep the text messages coming. I wish I were with you!

Stay safe!


Wednesday July 15, 2020-

Crazy Wm S Hart School board meeting tonight. But a decision has been made for the start of the fall semester. Here is what our Superintendent sent to the teachers tonight-

Classes will begin on August 11, 2020, in an online format

Online instruction will continue for approximately five weeks, through the period of the first progress reporting period (September 11, 2020)

Staff will report to work as assigned for the start of the school year

Training will commence tomorrow to enhance online instruction, to prepare for the next phase of Blended Learning, and to implement safety procedures as outlined in the School Reopening Protocol – with the overriding goal to fully open.

There are many details that still need to be worked out. For baseball, does this mean no practice for the fall? How about games? Can we start practice on August 11? Can we start baseball activities after 5 weeks? My guess is athletic decisions will be made next Tuesday when all the district athletic administrators get together. That will be the day after the CIF meeting on Monday.

I am excited to get back to teaching and coaching. Any capacity or format works for me at this point.

Stay safe!


Tuesday July 14, 2020-

Well, most school districts keep opting for online education to start the year. Antelope Valley, Bakersfield, LA, and San Diego have all decided to use distant learning to start the school year in August. Orange County has recommended to their districts to go back to school like normal. That is an interesting twist. Santa Ana in Orange County just announced they are starting online, defying the recommendations of their County. Crazy stuff.  Politicians are weighing in and everyone is picking sides. Tomorrow there is a Wm S Hart board meeting where I am sure this will be the main topic. Maybe a decision will be made??

Next Zoom meeting will be next Wednesday July 22.

Stay safe everyone, I miss you all!


Sunday July 12, 2020-

Next program meeting will be tomorrow July 13 at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link. There is not a seperate meeting for incoming freshmen. Players and parents are welcome to join this meeting.

Hoping for some better COVID stats tomorrow from this weekend. We need to start going in the right direction.

Stay safe everyone, and I will see you tomorrow night on Zoom.


Saturday July 11, 2020-

Next program meeting will be Monday July 13 at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link. Everyone is welcome.

I continue to get videos and pictures from WR players showing them working on baseball skills and playing baseball games. Love it. I am jealous and wish I was on the field with you all.

Reminder, the big date in terms of high school sports will be July 20, this is when CIFSS will be meeting to make a decision on the 2020-2021 high school sports schedule.

COVID cases and hospitalizations continue to stay high. Not good...

Stay safe everyone.


Friday July 10, 2020-

Next meeting for everyone including returning families and incoming freshmen families will be Monday July 13 at 7pm. HERE is the Zoom link.

Los Angeles Unified School District is hinting at going all online for the fall semester. If you remember last spring when the virus hit forcing us online to end the semester, our district mirrored what LA Unified did. So, we will see how all this shakes out. The current COVID numbers are not encouraging.

Stay safe everyone and have a great weekend!


Thursday July 9, 2020-

Many of you have asked for the hybrid schedules that the school board approved. So here they are. One for high school one for junior high. Baseball practice would be an 8th period class starting at 1:40pm each day. Click on the image to see a larger version of the image.

Obviously, these models are the current target for our school district and can change as the health department makes new guidelines. Hopefully, it changes towards more on campus time with the virus is in retreat. If the virus gets worse, then we could be forced to more online teaching and less classroom time. And it is possible we get forced to complete online education for the semester.

Once again, you can select online only learning for this semester and still come to practice each day at 1:40pm.

Stay safe everyone!


Wedensday July 8, 2020-

Next Zoom meeting will be Monday July 13 at 7pm. It will be for parents and players. There will be just the one meeting for returning players and incoming freshmen. Zoom link coming soon.

Not much more to add since my post yesterday. A bunch of information from Tuesday.

Stay safeveryone!


Tuesday July 7, 2020-

The debate is on. A nationwide debate. Should schools open to in person instruction or should the first semester be all online? I sure understand both sides. If I had a school age child, I would be begging to get him/her back to school.  As of today, and the current trend of the CORONA Virus, there is no way I would want my child back in school. It has turned political, each side digging in. So now what?

Here are my own thoughts for my own situation. Yours may be different and I except and honor your thoughts and opinions. I am nervous for my own safety. My wife teaches too. I am not confident there will be enough protection for the students and staff. I also do not think there is a solid plan in place in case someone is infected by the virus and attends school for a day. I am yearning for some time in the classroom with my students. No baseball with the boys is slowly killing me. I sure would like to be back on campus with everyone. I would like things to be normal again. Vaccine please!

Today with what I know and hear, I would prefer distance learning and keeping everyone safe. But I will be a good soldier and fall in line just like our health care workers have been doing all along. If I am asked to go back to school and teach/coach, I will do it with the same energy and enthusiasm that I always have. My dedication to the safety of the students will be at the forefront of every move I make. It will be a challenging, emotional, exciting, and nervous time for sure. So, I wait for a decision to be made. There is a little more time for our district to reach the best decision for everyone involved. School is scheduled to start August 11.

The parents have been asked to voice their opinions.  Our district is asking for parents to decide on an educational model for their own children. Below is the information sent out by our district to help parents make a decision based upon today’s health recommendations.  

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Good Morning Hart District Families,
Our schools sent out a survey asking families to indicate their plan for the fall (exclusive online learning or blended learning). We realize that many of you do not have the information you need to make this decision. The following is a review of the important factors to consider when deciding between the exclusive online learning model and the blended learning model. An FAQ page is being created and will be added to the District web site. Additional details will be shared on a weekly basis. 
Exclusive Online Learning

  • Students will remain enrolled at the current school unless the parent indicates that the preference is for long term online learning through Learning Post Academy/Hart at Home.
  • Students will be scheduled in the same manner as peers who will return to campus.
  • Teachers will utilize Google Classroom to deliver the instruction each week.
  • Teachers will be required to use ZOOM or Google Meet to interact virtually with students providing instruction to support Google Classroom content.
  • If a student elects to participate in the exclusive online learning environment, he or she may still participate in extra-curricular and co-curricular activities such as athletics, ASB, etc…
  • If a student elects to begin the semester in the exclusive online learning environment, he or she may switch to the blended learning model at any time during the semester.  Once a switch has been made, students will be expected to continue with that option through the semester unless presented with extenuating circumstances.
  • Teachers will provide targeted intervention for struggling students.
  • Teachers will be receiving professional development to increase effectiveness of online instructional practices and students will be held accountable for integrity of assignments and due dates.

Blended Learning

  • Students will be divided into two cohorts based on first initial of last name (A-K Cohort A, L-Z Cohort B).  Based on the requirement to maintain social distance, the schools can only accommodate 19-20 students per classroom.
  • Students in Cohort A will attend school on a block schedule Monday and Tuesday.  Students will be dismissed at lunch.
  • Lunch will be “grab and go”.
  • Students in Cohort B will attend school on a block schedule Thursday and Friday. 
  • Wednesdays will be rotated between cohorts weekly unless there is a holiday on a Monday in which case Cohort A will attend Wednesday on the block schedule.
  • Block schedule allows for three classes per day at the junior high.
  • The high school schedule has three classes per day along with additional time in the early morning for dual enrollment and the afternoon for athletics and other school specific courses.
  • All students and staff are required to wear masks.
  • Anyone entering campus will need to sanitize their hands prior to entrance and sanitize again prior to entering any classroom or building.
  • Both core curriculum and elective courses will be offered.
  • Students are expected to be participating virtually in the instructional process when not on campus.
  • Students will be required to rotate classrooms per their individual schedule.
  • Parents are expected to keep children home if they are displaying any COVID-19 related symptoms.
  • Campuses will be marked with social distancing indicators in all areas where a line may form.
  • There will be occupancy limits for restrooms, libraries, and wellness centers.
  • All students from the same family will be placed in the same cohort.
  • Changes to the assigned cohort can be requested and will be accommodated until the requested cohort is at capacity. 
  • Students or staff testing positive for COVID-19 will be quarantined.  Contact tracing will be completed and students who have been exposed will be notified and quarantined for 14 days or until a negative COVID test is provided. 
  • If there is an outbreak, which is defined as three or more positive cases within a 14 day period, the Department of Public Health will be notified and the school will follow their directives.

We value the partnership we have with you as we work together through this unprecedented time to continue providing the best education for your children. We hope that with this added information you will be able to let your school know your preference.

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Good luck on your decisions. Stay safe!


Monday July 6, 2020-

I heard back from the WR Admin who contacted our district and CIFSS officials. You would be allowed to play any sports at WR if you choose to be exclusively online for your education this fall semester. So there is no pressure to make your decision as to whether you want to return to campus for the hybrid schedule or stay at home during the day for the online curriculum.

The COVID-19 numbers from the weekend are not encouraging.

Have a safe and healthy week!


Sunday July 5, 2020-

Thanks for joining me for the Zoom meetings tonight. Here is a short recap-

  • Summer camp starting tomorrow has been canceled by the district due to health concerns
  • Thanks to Lindgreen, Cardamone, Imbert, Powers, and my brother for working on the camp planning
  • Thanks to the parents who donated time, energy, and money towards the camp
  • We feel like we were ready to conduct the camp and keep our players, coaches, staff, and families healthy
  • WR coaches can not have contact live face-to-face interactions with the WR players
  • West Ranch High School is closed, you may not use the baseball facility
  • We encourage and support our players playing baseball elsewhere this summer
  • Makes sense to us if you decide not to play baseball to keep your family safe
  • Camp refunds will be completed when school starts
  • July 20 CIFSS will produce a 2020-2021 sports calendar; this will tell us a lot about the plan for next school year’s sports
  • First day of school is August 11
  • Parents have been sent a questionnaire to decide if the want online or hybrid education this fall
  • Most colleges and universities in California are now online for the fall
  • There does not look like a scenario where there is a baseball PE class
  • We have no word on after school WR baseball practices
  • College coaches cannot recruit or watch players play until at least September 1st
  • Our seniors should be contacting college coaches and sending video of play
  • We will not make summer cuts
  • Tryouts will be held later when we can play normal baseball

Let me know of any questions.  I am looking into a player being online for classes and still be able to practice with the team in the afternoon. I will continue to post information here on my daily blog as it comes my way.


I will continue the expansion of the Burrill LEGO City and watch the bears up here in Pine Mountain Club. I would rather be with our players on Wildcat Field…


Stay safe everyone!


Saturday July 4, 2020-

Happy birthday America! We continue to see our great nation grow. And 2020 has been no exception.

Tomorrow night we will have our Zoom meetings. Returning families 7pm meeting link is HERE. Incoming Freshmen families 7:30pm meeting link is HERE. Have a great 4th of July weekend.

Stay safe everyone!


Friday July 3, 2020-

Sunday night July 5th we will have our Zoom meetings. Returning families 7pm meeting link is HERE. Incoming Freshmen families 7:30pm meeting link is HERE. Have a great 4th of July weekend.

Hope you all have a great 4th of July! May you and your family be healthy over the holiday weekend!

Stay safe eveyone!


Thursday July 2, 2020-

It looks like UC schools and several private universities like USC are now going online for the Fall semester. Maybe not having our camp is a wise move in terms of safety for all of us.

I am still trying to recover from the news of no camp this coming Monday. I so want to see all of our players. We will eventually get everything back up and running and baseball will be as strong as ever.

Sunday night July 5th we will have our Zoom meetings. Returning families 7pm meeting link is HERE. Incoming Freshmen families 7:30pm meeting link is HERE. Have a great 4th of July weekend.

Please stay safe.


Wednesday July 1, 2020-

Click HERE for The Signal article about summer camps being postponed.

So for us, we need to follow the current district rules.

  • No coach to player practices or workouts
  • WR Baseball facility cannot be used
  • Players can participate in club or scout teams as they wish
  • West Ranch players cannot wear West Ranch gear with other teams
  • July 20 is next target date for summer camp decision

Although the coaching staff is extremely disappointed with this decision, we are for the health and safety of the player, coaches, support staff, and families.  So, we will be thankful for everyone’s health and are hopeful for a safe return to Wildcat Field in the future. The coaching staff put together a practice plan that we think would be productive for the players while keeping everyone safe. You can see that practice plan HERE.

To our players- I appreciate your patience.  I know you want to get on the field and compete with your teammates. Please know the coaches feel the same way. Our program will be ready when we get the all clear. Please continue to work out and train for the sport we all love to play. You need to play catch. I love seeing the pictures and videos of you all playing baseball and getting better. Feel free to play somewhere else that is safe for you and your family. You have our full support to finish this summer with another organization. Contact me if you need help finding places to play. Keep me in the loop as I will enjoy following your baseball travels. I will live vicariously thru your baseball experiences. I also understand if you want to keep your distance from others to keep you and your family healthy. There is no correct way to end your summer this year. What you decide to do will be driven by the comfort level of you and your family. Take care of YOU and what is best for your family. I am just a phone call or text message away and will always be here for you!

I will be watching the news and bugging our district for information. The Burrill LEGO City will get lots of love.

Sunday night July 5th we will keep our Zoom meetings, but we will turn them into family meetings. Returning families 7pm meeting link is HERE. Incoming Freshmen families 7:30pm meeting link is HERE.

Stay safe everyone, I miss you all!


Tuesday June 30, 2020-

Another long month coming to an end. July starts tomorrow! Coaches had COVID training this morning and there is more tomorrow.

We have a working shell for our practice plan for Monday's first day of camp. Take a look at it. Like always, you can find the daily practice plan here on our website. Go to the "Schedules" drop down menu, then select "Today's Plan".

Thanks to those who have donated thermometers to the program. Always a generous group.

Sunday night July 5th we will have one last Zoom meeting before we start camp the next morning.  Returning player 7pm meeting link is HERE.  Incoming Freshmen player 7:30pm meeting link is HERE.

Each player must bring a copy of their completed physical exam on the first day. Players must register/pay for the camp and have completed the online Athletic Clearance.

Each player will need to bring to camp a completed Sports Liability Release Form.  Download it HERE.

Stay safe!


Monday June 29, 2020

We are one week away from our camp! Met with all the players tonight to get ready and explain some of the rules we will need to follow.

We will need to take temperatures at the start of the camp. The school only has 5 thermometers. We would like a few of our own. If anyone could donate the thermometers to our program that would speed up our process at the start of camp each day. Below is a picture of what we need. Thermometer can be found on Amazon. Contact Coach C Burrill if you can help.

Each player will need to bring to camp on the first day a completed Sports Liability Release Form.  Download it HERE.  Each player must bring a copy of their completed physical exam form well. Players must register/pay for the camp and have completed the online Athletic Clearance. We appreciate you all jumping thru the hoops to participate in our summer camp. Coaches will work hard to make it a productive and positive experience.

Sunday night July 5th we will have one last Zoom meeting before we start camp the next morning.  Returning player 7pm meeting link is HERE.  Incoming Freshmen player 7:30pm meeting link is HERE.

Keep checking this blog for more information about the summer camp.

Have a great week and stay safe!


Sunday June 28, 2020

I will meet with all the players tomorrow. Here are the links for the Zoom meetings-

Returning player meeting next Monday June 29, 7pm- LINK HERE

Incoming Freshmen player meeting next Monday June 29, 7:30pm- LINK HERE

Coaches have COVID-19 training this week. As I get a better understanding of the restictions for the camp starting in 8 days, I will list the rules and regulations here on our website.

Looking forward to seeing the players on the field!

Stay Safe!


Saturday June 27, 2020

Nothing new to reposrt today. Hoping for a stop in the spike of COVID cases. Look forward to chatting with the players on Monday night.

Stay safe everyone!


Friday June 26, 2020

The coaching staff has signed-up for the COVID-19 training for next week. Should be interesting. The state is reporting a surge in cases and hospitalizations. That makes me nervous. Hoping for better numbers this weekend.

Physical exams sponsored by West Ranch HS at Henry Mayo Urgent Care are up and running. Cost is $25 and they take most forms of payment. More infomration on the school summer sport web page HERE

I will meet with all the players on Monday July 29. Here are the links for the Zoom meetings-

Returning player meeting next Monday June 29, 7pm- LINK HERE

Incoming Freshmen player meeting next Monday June 29, 7:30pm- LINK HERE

Stay Safe!


Thursday June 25, 2020

Below are the physical exam dates sponsored by West Ranch HS at Henry Mayo Urgent Care-

Physical Exam Dates @ Henry Mayo Urgent Care-
 

I will meet with all the players on Monday July 29. Here are the links for the Zoom meetings-

Returning player meeting next Monday June 29, 7pm- LINK HERE

Incoming Freshmen player meeting next Monday June 29, 7:30pm- LINK HERE

Stay safe everyone!

 


Wednesday June 24, 2020

Returning player meeting next Monday June 29, 7pm- LINK HERE

Incoming Freshmen player meeting next Monday June 29, 7:30pm- LINK HERE

This morning the school board had a chance to look at some options for next fall. Interesting stuff. A couple different schedules were proposed. Of course, both class schedules are using today’s health recommendations. So there certainly could be plenty of change by the time we hit August 11. The district is anticipating a challenging budget as well.  There were layoffs announced and a discussion on administrative and teacher salary cuts. There was a brief discussion on sports and activities using today’s health recommendations from the county and state.

HERE is The Signal article about next fall. I believe the school board will be voting on a plan next Tuesday.

On the summer baseball topic, the free physicals from the district has been canceled as the business that was going to perform the physicals is super busy with Covid-19 testing and treatment. A new location is trying to be located by West Ranch admin. Keep checking school website HERE.

All games for this summer have now been canceled. This includes the tournament we are scheduled to host at the end of July. If along the way the healthy restrictions are relaxed and we can have a real baseball game, then we will hold intersquad games or find other schools who are permitted to compete.

  • Registration will open on the ASB webstore on Wednesday, June 24, 2020.  Players must go online to register and pay ($100) the summer athletic camp.
  • PHYSICALS- All student-athletes MUST have a current athletic physical to participate in the summer athletic program.  Kylie has set up dates at Exer Urgent Care. HERE is the link to all the info.
  • Athletic Clearance- All student-athletes must also have an account on athleticclearance.com prior to starting any athletic activity through school.  This forum also them to complete all paperwork involved with athletics.  Information on how to complete the process is posted on the school web site HERE.

Looking forward to some baseball, in any format!

Stay safe everyone.


Tuesday June 23, 2020

Tomorrow morning the school district will be talking about what the fall school semester might look like under current health requirements. HERE is article in The Signal. Probably more of a discussion tomorrow, but maybe a small glimpse into what the start of school might be like. No true information on what the budget might be and the virus may be at a different level when we hit August.

Fresno canceled their summer tournament.  Dana Hills in Orange County canceled their tourney as well.  It does not look like we will be playing games against other teams this summer.  Our toureny that we host is now end of July, crossing my fingers that it happens.

I hold onto faith that our summer camp will still happen.

  • Registration will open on the ASB webstore on Wednesday, June 24, 2020.  Players must go online to register and pay ($100) the summer athletic camp.
  • PHYSICALS- All student-athletes MUST have a current athletic physical to participate in the summer athletic program.  Kylie has set up dates at Exer Urgent Care. HERE is the link to all the info.
  • Athletic Clearance- All student-athletes must also have an account on athleticclearance.com prior to starting any athletic activity through school.  This forum also them to complete all paperwork involved with athletics.  Information on how to complete the process is posted on the school web site HERE.

Stay safe!


Monday June 22, 2020

Great chatting with all the parents tonight. Next Monday June 29 I will talk with the players on Zoom. Returning players at 7pm. Incoming freshmen at 7:30pm. Links coming soon.

Reminders-

  • Registration will open on the ASB webstore on Wednesday, June 24, 2020.  Players must go online to register and pay ($100) the summer athletic camp.
  • PHYSICALS- All student-athletes MUST have a current athletic physical to participate in the summer athletic program.  Kylie has set up dates at Exer Urgent Care. HERE is the link to all the info.
  • Athletic Clearance- All student-athletes must also have an account on athleticclearance.com prior to starting any athletic activity through school.  This forum also them to complete all paperwork involved with athletics.  Information on how to complete the process is posted on the school web site HERE.

Stay safe everyone!


Sunday June 21, 2020

Hope everyone had a fantastic Fahter's Day today. I got to see Papa Burrill this morning. He is doing great and still in the Burrill Bunker.

Some summer camp info-

  • Registration will open on the ASB webstore on Wednesday, June 24, 2020.  Players must go online to register and pay ($100) the summer athletic camp.
  • PHYSICALS- All student-athletes MUST have a current athletic physical to participate in the summer athletic program.  Kylie has set up dates at Exer Urgent Care. HERE is the link to all the info.
  • Athletic Clearance- All student-athletes must also have an account on athleticclearance.com prior to starting any athletic activity through school.  This forum also them to complete all paperwork involved with athletics.  Information on how to complete the process is posted on the school web site HERE.

Parent meetings tomorrow!

Returning parent meeting June 22 starts at 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81073377282?pwd=NnErOGdVN0pkVXZVb01DRjVRUndBdz09

Incoming freshmen parent meeting Monday June 22 at 7:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88597496661?pwd=ZFRyemsxRFdmVEVWSGc3bEVsdXRadz09

Stay safe!


Saturday June 20, 2020

Hope each of our baseball dads have a great Father's Day tomorrow!

Parent meetings on Monday!

Returning parent meeting June 22 starts at 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81073377282?pwd=NnErOGdVN0pkVXZVb01DRjVRUndBdz09

Incoming freshmen parent meeting Monday June 22 at 7:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88597496661?pwd=ZFRyemsxRFdmVEVWSGc3bEVsdXRadz09

Stay safe!


Friday June 19, 2020

If you still need a physical for the summer camp, the school is sponsoring a couple dates of free physicals. Info and dates are listed on school website HERE.

Had a chance to ride the Miller Jeep Trail. What an amazing experience! The Jeeps were awesome machines. An experience way outside my comfort zone. I never knew how much fun that could be.

Parent meetings on Monday!

Returning parent meeting June 22 starts at 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81073377282?pwd=NnErOGdVN0pkVXZVb01DRjVRUndBdz09

Incoming freshmen parent meeting Monday June 22 at 7:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88597496661?pwd=ZFRyemsxRFdmVEVWSGc3bEVsdXRadz09

Have a great weekend and stay safe!


Thursday June 18, 2020

Parent meetings on Monday!

Returning parent meeting June 22 starts at 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81073377282?pwd=NnErOGdVN0pkVXZVb01DRjVRUndBdz09

Incoming freshmen parent meeting Monday June 22 at 7:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88597496661?pwd=ZFRyemsxRFdmVEVWSGc3bEVsdXRadz09

Have a great weekend and stay safe!


Wednesday June 17, 2020

Coach Lindgreen came up to the mountains to visit us today, we were able to put together a plan for our summer camp starting on Monday July 6. We developed a strategy using today’s current health guidelines from NFHS and the LA County Health Department. Obviously, if these guidelines change by July 6 then we will make some adjustments to our camp plans.

Here are some of the highlights of what we came up with-

  • Players temperature will be taken
  • Health questions will be asked to each player
  • JV Navy will be with the incoming freshmen 9-10:30am to balance the numbers for the 2 camp sessions
  • We will have groups of 10 players to stay together each day of the camp
  • 6’ social distancing will remain in affect
  • Coaches will wear masks
  • Deep cleaning of the field and facility from 8:30-9am, between the 2 levels of camps
  • We will add some conditioning and strength each day, no weight room this summer
  • Players will perform baseball skills based upon the current health guidelines
  • We will add mental training, signs, plays, and other non-physical teaching to our camp schedule each day
  • Players should bring their own baseball equipment, water, and a baseball
  • No sharing of equipment this summer, have your own baseball equipment
  • All players should clean their equipment each night
  • After camp players should immediately go home and wash themselves and their practice clothes
  • The baseball field and cages will not be available at this time for extra player usage
  • Currently, we are not allowed to play games at West Ranch or travel to play
  • We will continue to plan for and schedule games for this summer
  • Coaches and school admin will continue to monitor health guidelines and regulations
  • Most of all, we are super excited to be back with the boys on Monday July 6, coaches cannot wait

Sign-up for the summer camp will be early next week.  I will have a link and information on the baseball website.

Returning parent meeting June 22 starts at 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81073377282?pwd=NnErOGdVN0pkVXZVb01DRjVRUndBdz09

Incoming freshmen parent meeting Monday June 22 at 7:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88597496661?pwd=ZFRyemsxRFdmVEVWSGc3bEVsdXRadz09

Stay safe everyone!


Tuesday June 16, 2020

Returning parent meeting June 22 starts at 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81073377282?pwd=NnErOGdVN0pkVXZVb01DRjVRUndBdz09

Incoming freshmen parent meeting Monday June 22 at 7:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88597496661?pwd=ZFRyemsxRFdmVEVWSGc3bEVsdXRadz09

We have moved the SCV Summer Tournament from July 10-12 to July 31- Aug 2. Buying us more time to get clearance to play games at West Ranch. More summer updates coming soon.

Stay safe everyone!


Monday June 15, 2020

Returning parent meeting on June 22 starts at 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81073377282?pwd=NnErOGdVN0pkVXZVb01DRjVRUndBdz09

Incoming freshmen parent meeting Monday June 22 at 7:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88597496661?pwd=ZFRyemsxRFdmVEVWSGc3bEVsdXRadz09

Coaches will be working hard Tuesday and Wednesday this week to plan for our 4 week summer camp and a possible summer game schedule. At this point, we are not cleared to play games this summer. But we will continue to plan and hope for an all-clear.

Stay safe!


Sunday June 14, 2020

IF starting summer camp today, we would have to follow some very restrictive health guidelines.  But we would still have plenty of baseball to cover. Many drills would still fit under the current health regulations.  Plays, signs, mental game, pitch sequences, fundamentals, etc… can all be a focus each day. These stringent rules may ease by the time we get to July 6 or even dissipate during the camp. Competing against other schools currently would not work under current conditions, but we are still planning for game action this summer. We are just not sure in what format or when.

Returning parent meeting on June 22 starts at 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81073377282?pwd=NnErOGdVN0pkVXZVb01DRjVRUndBdz09

Incoming freshmen parent meeting Monday June 22 at 7:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88597496661?pwd=ZFRyemsxRFdmVEVWSGc3bEVsdXRadz09

Coach Wife and I had dinner at the Pine Mountain Club clubhouse Saturday night. It was our first meal dining in. Staff was well covered, we had to wear masks unless eating, plenty of social distancing, and the food was fantastic.  Mike, the Pine Mountain Club chef, was rockin! Chicken and garlic mashed potatoes were amazing. Overall a great experience, and we both felt comfortable being there.

Stay safe everyone!


Saturday June 13, 2020

Moving forward with the July 6 summer start date.

Returning parent meeting on June 22 starts at 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81073377282?pwd=NnErOGdVN0pkVXZVb01DRjVRUndBdz09

Incoming freshmen parent meeting Monday June 22 at 7:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88597496661?pwd=ZFRyemsxRFdmVEVWSGc3bEVsdXRadz09

Stay safe everyone!


Friday June 12, 2020

Rumor on the street says District sports camps may start July 6. In what form and under what restrictions is still TBA. Health and safety guidelines at that time will dictate what our morning camps will look like.

So, we are looking at a summer camp schedule that looks like this-
First Day- Monday July 6
Last Day- Thursday July 30
Monday – Thursday for 4 weeks
Varsity & JV- 7:00-8:30am
Clean and Disinfect Facility & Equipment- 8:30-9:00am
Incoming Freshmen- 9:00-10:30am
Payment instructions ($100) is still TBA

And of course, this is all subject to change as health experts determine what is best for student and staff safety.

There is no guidance yet on games and competitions against other schools. So, I continue to plan for some weekend tournaments in July.

Keep prepping for some summer baseball!

Stay safe!


Thursday June 11, 2020

Well, I still do not know what it will look like, but we will have summer baseball. I am not sure the start date. I have been told there will be a distirct press release about summer sports any day now.

Players get ready to play ball!

Stay safe everyone!


Wednesday June 10, 2020

Cool how some of the players taken in the first round of the MLB draft our West Ranch / Ranchers players competed against this year or in years past. Continuing rounds will not be any different. One player was still on our spring schedule this year when we got canceled due to the Coronavirus. West Ranch always striving to play against the best opponents.

The trend of college players taken over high school players continued again last night in the first round. Universities offer players more time to mature and perfect their craft.  Plus, the caliber of college coaches is impressive. MLB teams have more time to evaluate and track the players.

Still waiting for official start date for our summer baseball camp and what health guidelines we will need to follow.  I have been told information from the district is coming soon.

Stay safe!


Tuesday June 9, 2020

Coaching staff is planing for summer baseball. Not sure the start date. Not sure if we will have games or if we will be able to travel. But we will at least be practicing and holding our 4 week summer camp. I can't wait for the final decision so we can put together our summer baseball season!

As I get info, I will share here. Players should be in full preperation for baseball starting again!

We will not hold another player or parent zoom meeting until we have some solid information about what the summer will look like.

Stay safe everyone!


Monday June 8, 2020

Today was our original day to start summer camp, way back when. JV teams would have been back from Las Vegas and we would be up and running this morning with our camp. So, what is the current plan? Well... I do know that we will have a summer camp. The district is currently working on the safety rules, start dates, and activity guidelines. The decisions made will have the safety of the athlete first. Then the best available options to let our athletes train. There are still a lot to be decided. Each of our players and families should be ready for a June 22 start, but we could start as late as the middle of July. I am thrilled that baseball is coming our way this summer, at least in some format. I am thankful to all the district and school personnel who are working hard to get us back on the field!!

What I do know. The cost of the camp will be $100, you can pay for it online soon. The camp will run for 4 weeks. We will be on the field Monday-Thursday each week and we will practice in the morning.

As far as games go... We are just not sure. There is a lot involved in making the decision to compete against another school. We may not be able to play any games. We may have to only travel to areas where contests have been approved. It is also possible we can host, and we will have a fairly "normal" schedule of summer games. We will receive information on contests soon.

So, I will keep you posted! Players should be now working out with a purpose. Extended throwing and arm care is now a must. Baseball is close!!

Stay safe!


Sunday June 7, 2020

Here is the non-varsity player meeting zoom link for tomorrrow at 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82082040160?pwd=TkVkOTZjSkg0UHNNQUdSNC8yS2pKUT09

We will get some information this week about the status of our summer program. Looking forward to the "All Clear"!

Players should be using these next 2 weekes to get ready for return to action! Playing catch is a must! Running, JBands, arm circles, etc... all highly recomended.

Stay safe everyone!


Saturday June 6, 2020

Looks like I will have some information Monday about the summer camp. District admin met with athletic directors on Friday. We will follow any guidelines that come our way to make summer baseball happen. Stay tuned!

Here is the non-varsity player meeting zoom link for Monday- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82082040160?pwd=TkVkOTZjSkg0UHNNQUdSNC8yS2pKUT09

Stay safe!


Friday June 5, 2020

Yesterday was a busy day of grading and collecting last minute work from students. This morning I turned in my grades. Semester done! School year done! Worst one ever!!

We had a faculty meeting this morning in the student parking lot. Breakfast burrito from "The Office" and saw all the school staff. Awesome! Great way to end the year. Just being around the West Ranch faculty made my week!

There was a meeting this morning with district and school administrators about sports for the summer and next fall. No news from the meeting yet. You all will be the first to know of any baseball decisions. I continue to plan the summer and fall like we are back at it.

The State has said we can resume school. But it will be with what rules? Accomidations for Corona? Class sizes? Safety measures? Still too much unknown to get a read on what this means.

Here is the non-varsity player meeting zoom link for Monday- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82082040160?pwd=TkVkOTZjSkg0UHNNQUdSNC8yS2pKUT09

Have a great weekend! Stay safe everyone!


Wednesday June 3, 2020

Graduation is tomorrow. My shift is 8:30-9:30am. I will be there around 8am.

SCV protest tomorrow. Should be interesting after listening to everyone talk about it last few days.

Tomorrow is last day for students to turn in work!!! Let's get it done and finish this school year!

Stay safe everyone!


Tuesday June 2, 2020

Reminders- Textbook return make-up day is Wednesday at 9:30am. All returning players and incoming-freshmen players must complete the online school registration on Infinite Campus. If you have any summer school referrals, COC College Now forms or any other counselor inquiries, please reach out to your counselor no later than June 8th at 3pm.

We are all hearing of a large demonstration in SCV for Thursday. Same day as West Ranch graduation at Central Park. We will see how that plays out. I will be at graduation 8:30-9:30am.

I will do a zoom meeting for all the non-varsity summer players for Monday June 8. Hopefully, we will have some good news by then from the district. Remember, this Friday is a district athletic meeting. Here is the non-varsity player meeting zoom link for next Monday- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82082040160?pwd=TkVkOTZjSkg0UHNNQUdSNC8yS2pKUT09

Stay safe everyone!


Monday June 1, 2020

Varsity team meeting went well tonight. We have a plan, especially for the arms. Now we just need to get the all clear for June 22. Parent meting tonight was good. I will try and get some details tomorrow on the Athletic Clearance online registration. I will put information and links on the baseball site.

I will do a zoom meeting for all the non-varsity summer players for Monday June 8. Hopefully, we will have some good news by then from the district. Remember, this Friday is a district athletic meeting. Here is the non-varsity player meeting zoom link for next Monday- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82082040160?pwd=TkVkOTZjSkg0UHNNQUdSNC8yS2pKUT09

Reminders- Textbook return make-up day is Wednesday at 9:30am. All returning players and incoming-freshmen players must complete the online school registration on Infinite Campus. If you have any summer school referrals, COC College Now forms or any other counselor inquiries, please reach out to your counselor no later than June 8th at 3pm.

Hoping for a more peaceful evening in LA County and across our great nation tonight!

Stay safe!


Sunday May 31, 2020

2 meetings tomorrow night are listed below-

2021 Varsity Roster, mandatory summer set-up zoom meeting 6:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83926126055?pwd=eWpFL2hmWkx1Yk9IYXhyelJ6eURIQT09

General Parent zoom meeting 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85092856882?pwd=WlRObmw1bGl4NWpoTjQxa3I3ei8xUT09

So tonight all of LA County has a 6pm curfew. What in the world. This school year needs to end.

Thursday June 4th is the last school day and drive-thru graduation. Players, turn-in all work this last week of school!!

Reminders- Textbook return make-up day is Wednesday at 9:30am. All returning players and incoming-freshmen players must complete the online registration. Also each player must complete the athletic clearance. Athletic clearance will start June 1, student registration is live now. If you have any summer school referrals, COC College Now forms or any other counselor inquiries, please reach out to your counselor no later than June 8th at 3pm.

Please veryone, stay safe and healthy!


Saturday May 30, 2020

I cannot believe what is happening across this country. I get the protest, I really do. But the destruction and violence? Praying and hoping for a united and safe tomorrow.

We have 2 program meetings for Monday, see zoom links below.

2021 Varsity Roster, mandatory summer set-up zoom meeting 6:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83926126055?pwd=eWpFL2hmWkx1Yk9IYXhyelJ6eURIQT09

General Parent zoom meeting 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85092856882?pwd=WlRObmw1bGl4NWpoTjQxa3I3ei8xUT09

Stay safe everyone!


Friday May 29, 2020

We have 2 program meetings for Monday, see zoom links below.

2021 Varsity Roster, mandatory summer set-up zoom meeting 6:30pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83926126055?pwd=eWpFL2hmWkx1Yk9IYXhyelJ6eURIQT09

Genreal Parent zoom meeting 7pm- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85092856882?pwd=WlRObmw1bGl4NWpoTjQxa3I3ei8xUT09

We will have meeting for all returning non-varsity players later in the week. Details coming soon.

The new 2020-2021 remind app codes are here. To get on board text to 81010 the message- @h36b37

The riots and distruction is heart breaking. Need our country to unite, heal, and prosper.

Stay safe everyone!


Thursday May 28, 2020

I am sure that by now you have heard about the possibility of a Drive Thru Graduation after the announcement from L.A. County stating school districts are now permitted to take part in this. Given this information all high schools in the William S. Hart School District will be participating in a Drive Thru Graduation. The date we have been given for West Ranch is Thursday, June 4th. All Drive Thru Graduations will take place at Central Park and will begin at 8am. This will replace the original plans we had for June 4th on the West Ranch campus.

I hope to have hotel information up tomorrow for the Fresno varsity tourney in July.

Stay safe everyone!


Wednesday May 27, 2020

Thanks to the more than 80 zoom connections we had tonight for our 2020 WR Baseball Banquet. I was reminded how much this pandemic has turned our world upside down. But I was also reassured that all will be OK because of the quality of young men we are sending out into our society.  Our 8 seniors exibit the best of mankind.  They are determined and optimistic. Congrats to our seniors for an amazing 4 years.  Those who remain at WR and are set to take the field again, follow the example our seniors left for you. It will take you down the correct path.

Here is a recap of the senior awards handed out tonight-
MVP – RJ Gordon
Offensive POY- RJ Gordon 
Defensive POY – Nicholas Perez 
Paul Hammons Most Inspirational – Nicholas Perez 
Senior Pitcher of the Year – Luke St Amand 
Maureen Burrill Most Improved- Brandon Wyre 
Suzanne Fogel Highest GPA – Ryan Farr
Lori Alvarez Highest Moral Character – Ryan Farr
Mr.Versatility Award – Matt Striplin
Coaches' Perseverance Award – Josh Yosfan
Play of the Year - Carson Lagana

Reminder, no player meeting Friday.  Parent meeting for next Monday is on and will take place at 7pm.

Have a great rest of your week!

Stay safe!


Tuesday May 26, 2020

Here is the zoom.com link for our online Baseball Banquet tomorrow night- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81708387068?pwd=L3hMNExnOWo0a1RWN1VreTI4cHBzUT09

No player meeting on Friday as that is now a school day because yesterday was a holiday.

Working on Fresno hotel booking for July 17-19. I will have more info on summer page soon.

See you tomorrow night for the online banquet. Looking forward to celebrating our seniors.

Stay safe!


Monday May 25, 2020

Hope you had a great memorial day, safe and healthy.

Here is the zoom.com link for our 2020 online Baseball Banquet on Wednesday May 27- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81708387068?pwd=L3hMNExnOWo0a1RWN1VreTI4cHBzUT09

No parent meeting this week. No player meeting this week.

Varsity summer game schedule is changing again. Looks like we are back in the Fresno Tourney. I will work on it today.

Our security cameras caught our first visitor last night. Good size brown bear. I am sure Coach Wife will post online sometime today.

Looking forward to honoring our seniors on Wednesday night!

Stay safe everyone!


Sunday May 24, 2020

Here is the zoom.com link for our 2020 online Baseball Banquet on Wednesday May 27- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81708387068?pwd=L3hMNExnOWo0a1RWN1VreTI4cHBzUT09

No parent meeting this week. No player meeting this week. Enjoy your Memorial Day tomorrow and honor those who have served our great country.

Players should check with teachers about the district's flexible finish. Textbook collection is this week, go to school website for more information.

All returning families to West Ranch, along with those coming to us from 8th grade, need to being the Online Registration Process (OLR) for the 2020-2021 school year.  The window in Infinite Campus is now open.  Even if your student is returning to West Ranch, EVERY parent needs to create and/or log into their portal account and submit an Online Registration application for the 2020-21 school year. OLR has been updated to include all the new notices and forms for the upcoming school year.  

Seniors, ou can start to order your Official/Final transcripts now. All you need to do is to fill out the following google form: https://bit.ly/WR2020Transcripts. Senior survey is here- https://forms.gle/FjNn2r3DNdgPdSKb6

Everyone stay safe, and I will see you online Wednesday night for our virtual banquet.


Saturday May 23, 2020

Here is the zoom.com link for our 2020 online Baseball Banquet on Wednesday May 27- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81708387068?pwd=L3hMNExnOWo0a1RWN1VreTI4cHBzUT09

No parent meeting Monday. No player meeting Friday.

I will see everyone Wednesday night for the online banquet! Enjoy your Memorial Day on Monday and honor those who have served our great country.

Stay safe everyone!


Friday May 22, 2020

Today was the Flexible Finish start date. This is where our players, parents, and teachers could agree upon the finish to the semester. All three parties need to agree. Contact individual teachers for more information on each class.

Today I had a faculty meeting, department meeting, and our player meeting. The news from the faculty meeting was that the teachers in our district need to be prepared for a different looking fall semester. The start of the semester has the chance of looking different this year. In what way?? No one knows. It will all depend on what LA County decides are the new health mandates. It is everyone’s best guess on what all this means for sports, clubs, and activities.

The department meeting was more of the same discussion. Then I relayed all this information and speculation on to our players in our weekly zoom meeting.

Do not forget, this is a three-day weekend.  So, classes will be Tuesday – Friday next week. No online school on Monday.

No parent meeting Monday and no player meeting Friday because of the holiday week.

Stay safe everyone!


Thursday May 21, 2020

Player meeting tomorrow will be at 10am, here is the link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88479527731?pwd=R2ZpMDVYa2FSaEFlQldjWXZ3K1k3QT09

We bought a Subaru to drive up & down the mountain. So now we just need the all-clear to go back to work, play ball, and be normal again. Coach Wife and I are ready to make the commute!

MLB needs to get their act together and plan for a shortened season. The country needs baseball. Can’t someone order them to play?

Last day in Canada, it has been an amazing coast to coast virtual trip. I cannot wait to take coach wife, Max, and pile in an RV to make the journey for real. So today to finish off the trip we take the ferry from Sydney to Newfoundland where will finish our French Canadian tour.
Stay safe everyone!


Wednesday May 20, 2020

Friday player meeting will be at 10am, here is the link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88479527731?pwd=R2ZpMDVYa2FSaEFlQldjWXZ3K1k3QT09

Not much new to report today. Here are some upcoming event reminders. This Friday is the "Flexible Finish" date for classes. Check with your teacher on how they will be handling the end of the semester. Tuesday next week is West Ranch Senior Awards Night. Email with details will be sent out from the school. Next Wednesday is our annua baseball banquet, online of course. I will post a zoom link this weekend.

COC is going to be online for the fall semester. Not a good sign...

Canadain online tour is close to completion, we have arrived at the east coast of Canada and Nova Scotia. First stop is Dartmouth. We will otur the Dartmouth Crossing, Shearwater Aviation Museum, and the Subenacadie Canal Waterway.

Stay safe everyone!


Tuesday May 19, 2020

Friday player meeting will be at 10am, here is the link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88479527731?pwd=R2ZpMDVYa2FSaEFlQldjWXZ3K1k3QT09

LA County is on a push to reopen on July 4. Not sure what that means for our June 22 start. I believe we can push everything to July if needed. We will wait and see. I know our district is going to monitor and make the appropriate decision based on everyone’s safety. There have been so many dates thrown out as restart dates, none have been accurate yet. So I will be patient.

I hear from parents and players that they feel like they are falling behind because they are not playing baseball. This is not the case. No one is playing right now. If you are working out, eating right, and working on basic baseball skills, then you are ahead of the game. Do not go do something that would put your family and friends in danger because you feel like you are behind. Think smart, don’t be emotional.

Do not give anyone money for future baseball, including West Ranch. The baseball world is full of people who make money off of families desperate to play.They offer false hopes and promises. You may not get your money back! Most of the options out there, especially in today's environment, are only money makers for the organizers of the teams and events. Best case basbeall scenario now is you put your son, family, and friends at risk to play an irrelevent weekend of baseball. And of course this cost you a bunch of money.

I have been asked about throwing and arm care. I believe that you need to find your own personal balance. I understand and agree with the following tactics: do not throw at all during the pandemic and rest my arm, do long toss, throw heavy bullpens each week, and just do arm care exercises with light throwing. Really, I get all angles and thoughts. If your arm responds to rest, then do it. If your arm responds best to constant throwing and/or training, then have at it. My 20+ years of coaches and 20+ years of playing, I have concluded that no arms are alike. I have seen it all! So be your own expert and advocate. You can always contact me for my free opinions.

Today we start to get to the end of the Canadian virtual tour. The Burrills are heading to Fredericton which is the capital of New Brunswick in eastern Canada, on the St. John River. It is known for its Historic Garrison District and 18th-century British army base now home to a Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Stay safe everyone!


Monday May 18, 2020

Solid parent meeting last night, thanks to all who took the time to participate.

Continue to hold the end of the year awards date. We will recognize our short season, celebrate the school year, and honor our seniors. Event will take place online Wednesday May 27 at 7pm. Link to the event will be posted on the baseball website.

The senior awards banquet for the school will be the night before. Several baseball seniors will be receiving awards and honors. Might be a fun program to watch. Your truly put on his baseball uniform to record a handful of presentations.

Keep following the school website and West ranch social media for all the latest happenings and updates.

Next player meeting will be Friday at 10am.

Off to the Burrill Canadian virtual tour we go… we stopped in a small French-Canadian town of Caribou. Hoping to see some caribou.

Stay safe everyone!


Sunday May 17, 2020

Parent meeting tomorrow night 7pm. Here is the zoom link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85650509967?pwd=U1pBVjB5dU9LTkVLdVkrR1ZIb0lWdz09

As we near the end of the school year (only 3 weeks left!), teachers have the option of working together with their students using a flexible finish.  This means that, AFTER May 22nd, if a student is good with their current grade, AND the teacher wants to work with this model, they can agree to end the year with that grade in this Flexible Finish. We are now just one week away from this. Please talk with your player about their grade and the “finish line.” Remember, this is only a 2-week window. There probably is not a good chance for a student with a C to jump to an A in two weeks. The player must work with their teacher.  Encourage your player to reach out as soon as possible. The new grading policy along with all information regarding Distance Learning is available on the following District Link:  https://www.hartdistrict.org/apps/pages/distance-learning

Textbook collection will occur by grade level during the week of May 26th.  You will receive an email about the books your player currently has checked out this week.

Please encourage your senior player to take a few moments to fill out the senior survey.  Just click on the following link:  https://forms.gle/FjNn2r3DNdgPdSKb6

Coach Wife and I took the ferry across the St. Lawrence river in Canada today and continued east to Lac-Témiscouata National Park where we did some hiking and exploring.

Stay safe everyone!


Saturday May 16, 2020

Congratulations to Brandon Wyre who received a California Baseball Coaches Association Award for leadership. He was recognized for his dedication to two sports and his ability to overcome his injuries. HERE is the list of the players recognized.

Monday night we will have our next parent zoom meeting. Here is the link to the 7pm meeting- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85650509967?pwd=U1pBVjB5dU9LTkVLdVkrR1ZIb0lWdz09

We have been informed that our summer camp that starts on June 22 will be $100. It will be payable online at the ASB website. The payment link will be active shortly before the camp starts in June, the district is going to wait till the last possible day to decide on the summer camps. Our baseball camp will go for 4 weeks and will finish on Thursday July 16. Hoping we get the all clear to get on the field again.

The virtual Burrill Canadian tour takes to Parc de la Rivière-du-Moulin for some incredible scenery and hiking.

Stay safe everyone!


Friday May 15, 2020

Great chatting with all the baseball players this morning at 10am. We will meet next week on Friday, same time. We talked about summer rosters, spring semester grading, summer ball, and the start of the fall semester.

Tonight, the senior celebration/cap & gown pick-up was legit. Tears, laughter, cheers, and a carnival atmosphere! Great to see most of the baseball seniors tonight. There they were, live in their cars. It was just so nice to see people. Simply great to see all our senior students. I sure do miss them all!  Our staff was amazing last night, 60+ teachers, counselors, administration, campus supervisors, and custodial staff were all there to celebrate with our class of 2020 seniors.

Tonight, the wife and I stay in Quebec City Canada and visit online- Old Quebec, Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, Terrasse Dufferin, and La Citadelle de Quebec.

Stay safe everyone, and have a great weekend!


Thursday May 14, 2020

Tomorrow evening, we get to see our seniors at the cap & gown distribution! Cannot wait to celebrate the class of 2020 in the West Ranch parking lot. Seniors should have received information on this event. Let me know if you did not.

I will be in the SCV all day tomorrow getting some shopping done and running arrands. Then the big event in the evening with the seniors. I will of course check on the field.

Tomorrow morning, we will have our next player meeting at 10am. Here is the link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86588037445?pwd=VXBpcFZTSyt1UVdmSmR3b3lIenJ4dz09

Today's journey in Canada keeps us in French Canada and a virtual trip to Quebec City.

Satay safe eveyone!


Wednesday May 13, 2020

Today I posted our preliminary summer rosters. You can find them HERE. Tougher this year to place our players on rosters because we did not have a chance to watch them compete this spring.  These rosters will give us starting point. Summer rosters are never the same as when we start the following spring.  So, to all our players, work hard to get and keep the level of play you want. The sport of baseball has a “grind” that is like no other. Many a talented baseball player has given up, quit, or become discouraged. The game of baseball is a test of one’s desire, courage, endurance, and competitive spirit.  Contact me if there are any questions.

Friday evening, we get to see our seniors at the cap & gown distribution! Cannot wait to celebrate the class of 2020 in the West Ranch parking lot. Seniors should have received information on this event. Let me know if you did not.

This Friday morning, we will have our next player meeting at 10am. Here is the link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86588037445?pwd=VXBpcFZTSyt1UVdmSmR3b3lIenJ4dz09

Next Monday May 18th we will have our next parent meeting at 7pm. Tuesday May 26th is West Ranch Senior Awards Night. Wednesday May 27th Is our baseball banquet at 7pm.

The Canadian journey takes us out of Montreal and into Trois-Rivières, even deeper into French Canada. So much to see and do.

Stay safe everyone!


Tuesday May 12, 2020

Well… that was not good news from LA County officials today. They eluded to a few more months of “safer at home” orders.  I hope this is not the case. Fingers are still crossed for a June 22 start to our summer baseball program. People have asked me what the stance of our district is on all of this. Honestly, our district leadership has fallen in line with every decision the state and local government has made. They have no choice but to follow the orders as West Ranch is a public school. In the end, I know the health and safety of all of us will be the driving force of all decisions. I do acknowledge the economic impact these decisions have made on individuals and families.

I am hearing some positive news from our baseball players taking AP Exams this week. Keep up the great work men, we are immensely proud of you!

Friday I will see all the players at 10am for a zoom meeting. Then in the evening I will see the seniors in person at West Ranch HS as there will be a carnival like atmosphere while our 2020 Seniors pick-up their caps and gowns. Coaches Brady Burrill, Ryan Lindgreen, Juan Lopez, Jon Walsh, and I will be there socially distant of course. I will try and take a some of pictures.

I am sure by now no one is following Coach Wife and I as we continue our virtual tour of Canada. I do not care; this has been so therapeutic for me. Feel free to skip this section. I look forward to finding a new place to visit each day and then reading all about it. So, with that, we cruise into Montreal Canada for the Hockey Hall of Fame. Hockey is my favorite sport to watch. This will be a religious experience for me.

Stay safe everyone!


Monday May 11, 2020

I got to introduce the program to a bunch of the incoming freshmen families tonight via a zoom meeting. What a great group, I am super excited to welcome them to the program. Special shout-out to our Athletic Director Dody Garcia for joining us last night.

The new semester and temporary grading policy along with all information regarding Distance Learning is available on the following District Link:  https://www.hartdistrict.org/apps/pages/distance-learning

Next current player zoom meeting (all grades) will be Friday at 10am. Here is the zoom link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86588037445?pwd=VXBpcFZTSyt1UVdmSmR3b3lIenJ4dz09

Also this Friday I will be at school in the evening for senior cap and gown distribution. Can't wait to see all the seniors this Friday at West Ranch. I'll take some pictures.

Coach Wife and I are still in Ottawa, the Capital of Canada. We will visit the Parliment Building, The Market, Museum of History, and eat at BeaverTails.

Stay safe everyone!


Sunday May 10, 2020

Hope all our baseball moms had a great Mother's Day! Behind every great WR baseball player there is amazing parent support. We salute our baseball moms.

I got out to the field yesterday, here is the latest look-

We will hold a zoom meeting tomorrow night for the incoming freshmen families at 7pm. Spread the word. Here is the zoom link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89157665864?pwd=YmZUU3BNTHR1cXpMR0F3dWpwV3BEZz09

Next current player zoom meeting (all grades) will be Friday at 10am. Here is the zoom link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86588037445?pwd=VXBpcFZTSyt1UVdmSmR3b3lIenJ4dz09

The new semester and temporary grading policy along with all information regarding Distance Learning is available on the following District Link:  https://www.hartdistrict.org/apps/pages/distance-learning

AP Exams begin this week and will be given on-line this year. The dates of each exam have been released along with other information.  You can access information, including online reviews, through the following website: https://apcoronavirusupdates.collegeboard.org/students

Seniors and their families, please be on the lookout for all the messages going out regarding cap and gown pick up to occur on Friday. Brady Burrill, Ryan Lindgreen, and I will be there!

Stay in touch with all that is happening at West Ranch by following its social media links.

Coach Wife, Max (dog), and I have been doing a bunch of hiking. The Los Padres National Forest our house is in has a ton of hiking trails and service roads.

Virtual tour continues to move East as we visit the Canadian Capital Ottawa. Much to see here.

Please stay safe, looking forward to the day we are all back on the field. June 22 is my target date.


Saturday May 9, 2020

Busy day today, no update. Don't forget Monday night Incoming Freshmen zoom meeting here- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89157665864?pwd=YmZUU3BNTHR1cXpMR0F3dWpwV3BEZz09

Stay safe!


Friday May 8, 2020

Got to meet with all the players on zoom.com this morning. Shared some information and thoughts. Great to "see" all of them again.

I will be down in SCV today and will be visiting Wildcat Field. Can't wait to put a little time and energy into the facility. I will post pictures of the field tomorrow night.

We will hold a zoom meeting Monday night for the incoming freshmen families at 7pm. Spread the word. Here is the zoom link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89157665864?pwd=YmZUU3BNTHR1cXpMR0F3dWpwV3BEZz09

Next player zoom meeting (all grades) will be Friday at 10am. Here is the zoom link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86588037445?pwd=VXBpcFZTSyt1UVdmSmR3b3lIenJ4dz09

Canadian online tour rolls back into Canada to do some hiking at Hiawatha Highlands.

June 22 and an "All Clear" can't come fast enough!

Stay safe everyone.


Thursday May 7, 2020

All player zoom meeting tomorrow at 10am- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85708492278?pwd=Q1lFdGdLV09HSG9xM1RKU29JdlFQQT09

Phase 2 of the opening of the state of California continues to keep my hopes up for a June 22 baseball start.  Praying that the virus continues to stay in check, and we see a return to normalcy.

The Hart District released a temporary grading policy that will be put in place for just this semester. I have a faculty meeting tomorrow and I am sure this will be explained to the teachers in detail. But from what I understand students can take a letter grade of A, B, or C. If they do not want to take a letter grade, then they can receive a pass or fail mark for the course. If a student has a letter grade with 2 weeks left in the course that they like, then they can keep that grade and be done with the course early. This way teachers can work on the students who have not performed well during the distant learning. By having less students to work with for the last 2 weeks of the semester, this will give teachers a chance to work with students with poor grades. I think all of this is a good idea considering today’s unprecedented academic environment.

Got to see Coach Brady Burrill today. It has been a while. They traveled up the 5 to see Coach Wife and I. He and is family are doing great. They have the same pandemic challenges as everyone else. Coach and his wife both teach upper level AP math courses and are busy getting their students ready for the AP exams. And of course, they have a couple grade schoolers. They are teaching their own youngsters at home.

The virtual Canadian journey now has the Burrills crossing the border at Sault Ste Marie so we can make a quick trip to Mackinac Island in the northern part of Michigan. WR Baseball team grandpa Jerry Burrill was born on the island. My great grandfather was in the US Coast Guard and was stationed on Mackinac Island. Also, the island is where Coach Wife and I went on our honeymoon. We will get back up into Canada tomorrow, but a short trip crossing the border was in order so we could see a special place for the Burrill family.

Stay safe everyone!


Wednesday May 6, 2020

I have home internet now!

All player zoom meeting on Friday at 10am- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85708492278?pwd=Q1lFdGdLV09HSG9xM1RKU29JdlFQQT09

I am going to co-head coach the with Coach Lindgreen starting this fall. With my new commute, I am going to try and limit my travel. I will still work on schedules, facility improvements, website, budget, uniforms, program promotion, etc…  But I will only be attending varsity practices, games, and functions. Coach Lindgreen and I are excited to make this work. We will have more information and details as we get closer to August so players and parent will be able to approach both Coach Lindgreen and I with any questions or concerns.

I will not have a 1st period next year. Players with 1st period class should take their gear to their 1st period, then store it in my classroom starting at 8am. My classroom will still be open for tutorial, brunch, and lunch. Players will still get ready for practice in room 513. I will have open 6th and 7th periods, so I will make every practice. Coach Wife and I will be commuting together on non-varsity game days. There are a handful of teachers who live up in the mountain communities, so there will be some carpooling as well. Kern county runs bus service from the SCV transit center by the mall to Frazier Park, so that is another good option for me as well. My brother’s spare bedroom will be a solid place to crash when needed.

States, counties, cities, are all starting to reopen different businesses and activities. Of course, we are all waiting for the go play baseball order. It is a good sign that all this is happening.  Still holding onto the June 22 start date for summer morning baseball camp.  Going to continue to work on games for July.

Roster information- Next week we will post 3 rosters for the summer. Varsity, JV Gold, and JV Navy. Varsity will be the players at this time that will compete this summer to grab a fall varsity spot. JV Gold will be the players who are not varsity level at this time but will be moving forward in the program. JV Navy are the athletes we have that are looking to show this summer that they should have a spot on one of the fall rosters. Player cuts will be done at the end of the summer program.

I will be setting up a zoom meeting with incoming freshmen parents and players for next Monday at 7pm. We got a list of 24 incoming freshmen who are interested in baseball. Looking forward to meeting all the new Wildcat families.

Starting back up with my online Canadian tour takes coach Wife and I to Eagle Canyon Adventures and Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park.

Stay healthy and stay safe!


Tuesday May 5, 2020

We will have a player Zoom meeting (all grade levels at once) at 10am on Friday. No Zoom meetings until then. Here is the Friday morning Zoom link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85708492278?pwd=Q1lFdGdLV09HSG9xM1RKU29JdlFQQT09

I am still updating using my cell phone, so this will be short and quick again today.

There continues to be news, plans, thoughts, concerns, etc... about opening the state. Getting some businesses open. Schools back in session. So, I remain optimistic about starting baseball June 22!

Stay safe everyone. Hopefully, I have internet tomorrow.

 


Monday May 4, 2020

Congrats to senior infielder Ryan Farr for signing with Cal Lutheran University to play baseball next year. Coach Slimak of the Kingsmen is getting a fantastic player and person.

May the 4th be with you. Good seeing/chatting with the parents tonight. Coach Cardamone and Coach Sreden jumped in the zoom meeting as well.

I am still having internet issues at the new house. So, I will be short again tonight with this update as I am using my phone.

I have moved the fall/winter schedule for next year onto the main fall webpage HERE. You can follow my progress.

Stay safe everyone!


Sunday May 3, 2020

Lindgreen baby boy Van is doing great, so is mom and Coach Lindgreen. Still updating from my cell phone, hope the picture of Van makes it to the web.

Parent meeting tonight tomorrow night at 7pm. Here is the zoom link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87283539293?pwd=d2QwTDhwV3hXZ1pVR3FxdXVjazY5Zz09

No senior meeting today, I am getting internet service installed at my new home this afternoon. I will have a zoom meeting later this week for all players, regardless of their grade level. Date and time to be annonced. So no noon player meetings this week.

Hope all is well, see the parents tomorrow night!

Stay Safe!


Saturday May 2, 2020

The Lindgreen Family welcomed Van to the world tonight. Mom and baby are healthy and doing great. Van's dad is exhausted. More info coming tomorrow.

Updating the web page from my phone in the mountains, slow but doable. Parent Meeting Monday night. Zoom link tomorrow night.

Have a great Sunday!

Stay safe everyone.


Friday May 1, 2020

I think it took 2 years to get done with the month of April.

This week would have ended our Foothill League play with our senior day honoring our 8 seniors. Playoffs next week.

No Lindgreen baby boy yet… Sounds like they are set to go get him at 10am tomorrow if no excitement tonight.

Congrats to Nicholas Perez for making the Southern Section D1 all senior team. Some amazing names on that list. Proud of Nicholas and his amazing career at West Ranch.

T-Dog got word his UPS route will be around Hwy 126 and Hasley Cyn. Go T!!!

Got keys to our new house today. Move starts early tomorrow. Will be a long day, but totally worth it. Mountain living and a commute in our future.

I am off to bed. The movers will be here at the crack of dawn. Appreciate all the kind words of support and encouragement.

Stay safe everyone.


Thursday April 30, 2020

No Lindgreen baby boy yet…

Faculty and department meetings for me tomorrow. Of course, some more grading that never ends. Then Coach Wife and I get keys to our new house in the afternoon and we will make a 4 car run up to the new house for our first delivery of Burrill stuff. Saturday morning the movers come and take care of all the big items. Saturday will be our first night in the woods. We are excited and nervous all at the same time. It has been a journey, and we are hoping for a smooth weekend of moving. My family of 4 has only known the SCV as home. It is the best place to raise a family!

My next zoom meeting will be Monday night with the parents at 7pm. Zoom link will be online Sunday night.

Canadian online adventure takes the Burrills to beautiful Theunder Bay on the edge of Lake Superior.

From my family to yours, we hope you are safe and healthy! Me miss you all!


Wednesday April 29, 2020

No Lindgreen baby boy yet…

Reminder, no player noon zoom meetings this week with Coach Casey Burrill. Next zoom meeting will be Monday "May the 4th be with you", 7pm with the parents.

You can follow my future scheduling progress with the links below-
2020- Summer Schedule- HERE
2020- Summer SCV Tourney- HERE
2020-21 Fall/Winter schedule- HERE
2021 Spring Schedule- HERE

It is looking like our Hart District will hold summer school classes online. I do not like hearing that. Riverside County extended their "safer at home" orders until June 19. That is not good news. I continue to plan like we can use the baseball field on Monday June 22.

There is talk about starting the school year sooner, maybe late July or start of August. That works, just as long as we can start baseball too. All this stuff makes my head spin. So many emotions. It will pass, it will pass...

Today Coach Wife and I are in Kakabeka Falls Ontario. The online Canadian journey continues. This virtual trip wil be a real life Burrill RV journey one day for sure.

Stay safe everyone, I miss you!


Tuesday April 28, 2020

No Lindgreen baby boy yet…

The 12-car varsity underclassman caravan went out last night to honor the 2020 seniors. Just fantastic! Each senior received a collage poster, you can see them by following the link HERE. Well done varsity parents and players! There just can't be a better high school baseball family.

Reminder, no player noon zoom meetings this week with Coach Casey Burrill. Next zoom meeting will be Monday May the 4th be with you, 7pm with the parents.

There is chatter that start of the school year may be moved up next year to recover some of the instruction time lost this semester. I just want the all clear. I want to play baseball, teach my classes, and have everything back to normal. I do not care when we start the school year. I continue to plan for future baseball.

You can follow my future scheduling progress with the links below-
2020- Summer Schedule- HERE
2020- Summer SCV Tourney- HERE
2020-21 Fall/Winter schedule- HERE
2021 Spring Schedule- HERE

Grades should be available for everyone in Infinite Campus. We just turned in the 15-week progress grades. All baseball players should have a 4.0+. There is no excuse. Let me know if I can help in any way.

Went into work today, WR is a Ghost Town. Uncomfortable. Here are some pictures of the field. The facility is overgrown and not fit for baseball. We will have some work to do when we get the go ahead to play.

I can speak with incoming freshmen and their parents starting May 1st.  So I will reach out to them and do a zoom meeting sometime next week.  We welcome you all to The Ranch. Wish it was under different circumstances, but this will eventually pass.

I am moving East on my virtual Canadian Tour, today we hit Voyageurs National Park for some hiking, swimming, and touring.

Stay safe everyone! Miss you all!

 


Monday April 27, 2020

No Lindgreen baby boy yet…

UPDATE- I will not be available for player meetings at noon the rest of this week. I will start zoom meetings again next week on May 4th with a parent meeting at 7pm.

There are many senior events being planned by our school and our baseball program. Details will be made available soon. Do not forget to save the online date for our year ending Awards Ceremony. Scheduled for May 27 at 7pm.

Continuing to make progress for our upcoming schedules. It sure has been fun to connect with my coaching friends. Great to hear their voices and commiserate together. We are laughing and crying all at the same time. One thing is for sure, we feel horrible for our seniors.

You can follow my scheduling progress with the links below-
2020- Summer Schedule- HERE
2020- Summer SCV Tourney- HERE
2020-21 Fall/Winter schedule- HERE
2021 Spring Schedule- HERE

I turned in grades today. My students have been resilient and almost all of them are cranking out amazing work. All our baseball players should have a 4.0+ this semester. There is no excuse. Contact me if anyone needs help with school related issues.

Tomorrow I will have a chance to work on the field and in my classroom. I am looking forward to it. I will post pictures tomorrow night. Last time I was there it looked like a scene from The Walking Dead. Eerie stuff. The field and my classroom were frozen in time.

Canadian road trip has Coach Wife and I in Ontario at Nester Falls. The amount of lakes and rivers in lower Ontario is unbelievable.

Stay safe my friends. I miss you!


Sunday April 26, 2020

No Lindgreen baby boy yet…

Coach Wife birthday today, some of her co-workers from Placerita JrHS did a drive-bye. What a great gesture! It was fun to see her friends and just chat with them for a while. I miss face-to-face conversations.

I will meet with the seniors tomorrow at noon on zoom, here is the link- https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86772939171?pwd=alJRMG9CUjZrUlJPTGw3dGxvdnZrZz09

West Ranch dead period officially moved.  It is now June 8-21. This means no sports or activities on campus for those first 2 weeks of summer.  We will start our morning summer camp on Monday June 22, and it will go for 4 weeks ending on Thursday July 16.  We will hold camp Monday – Thursday, we will now have Fridays off. Varsity and JV will be 7:30-9am, and incoming freshmen will go 8:30-10am. Sign-up cost and other information coming soon. Because of the move of the dead period, we will not play any games at any level until the weekend of July 11. Follow the latest confirmed information on our summer page HERE.

Next school year baseball game schedules are in production, you can view these unpublished pages to follow my progress. I hope to have them completed by the emd of May.
2020-21 Fall/Winter schedule- HERE
Spring 2021- HERE

I have been given permission to go to the field on Tuesday. I will mow again. Picture will be online Tuesday night.

Keeping up with the virtual Burrill’s cruising Canada…  Next stop is Nopiming Provincial Park.  Stunning lakes with amazing hikes.

Stay safe my friends, look forward to being with you all at Wildcat field!


2020 Varsity Underclassmen Visited All the Seniors Tonight With a Drive-By Salute

Each Senior Was Presented With a Picture Poster

View the Senior Posters HERE


Saturday April 25, 2020

No Lindgreen baby yet...

Made some progress today on the Varsity 2021 spring schedule. You can follow my progress HERE. We are back in the Easton Tourney and we picked-up a couple great out of league/tourney games already. The National Classic tournament does not match up with our spring break.  We do not get a chance to defend our title! I am on a hunt for a spring break tournament now.

Congratulations to Brandon Wyre for being voted onto the Prom Court. Check out the school social media for videos and other content. Coach Wife and I would have chaperoned the prom tonight, we think it would have been our 22nd prom. COVID-19 sucks.

The online Canadian adventure has Coach Wife and I on a walk at Seine River Greenway’s Trail in Winnipeg.

Stay safe everyone. Miss you!


Friday April 24, 2020

Today we were supposed to play Valencia for the last time this spring, leaving us with just 2 more spring games. Senior day would be next Wednesday April 28 against Golden Valley. So curious how the Foothill League would have played out. Our pre-season schedule was the most difficult in school history, and our preparation was second to none. Our 2020 undefeated (3-0) league season is what it is. Can’t help to think there was more… I sure believed in our squad and was excited to move deeper into league play and beyond.

Tomorrow is the due date for little Lindgreen. When I hear any intel, I will post on this website. The Lindgreen sisters are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their little brother. Coach T-Dog completed his UPS driver training and is now a fully credentialed 22.4 combo driver. Well done T! All the WR baseball coaches are safe and healthy. They miss the baseball program and all of you!

I am thrilled that our senior baseball players wanting to continue to play ball in 2021 are finding homes for next year. Well done men, what a resilient group! Even our seniors becoming civilians and hanging up the spikes, are finding their way. We are proud of our 2020 seniors!

Do not forget our year ending awards ceremony will be online Wednesday May 27 at 7pm.  Join us for the celebration and year in review.

Teachers are turning in grades this weekend. This is the 15-week progress report. Only 5 weeks left of the 2019-2020 year.  Honestly, I am ready for this school year to just go away. All our players should have a 4.0, there is no excuse now. Let me know if anyone needs any help with their academics.

Keep checking the summer schedule page for new information and changing dates. Still waiting for the official move of the summer camps to June 22.

Burrill family is now 1 week away from our move to 6,500 feet. Excited and busy preparing.

Virtual Canadian tour takes Coach Wife and I to Winnipeg. We will visit the Museum for Human Rights, Assiniboine Zoo, Royal Canadian Mint, and Manitoba Museum.

Enjoy your weekend. Recharge for another historic week sponsored by COVID-19.


Thursday April 23, 2020

2 Days away from due date for Baby Lindgreen. We do know a boy is on the way. Updates will be posted here on our website.

Got a chance to visit the baseball field today. Mowed the infield grass and dragged the dirt. You all know I do not have a green thumb; however, this morning was magical. Just to be on the field as the sun was coming up was therapeutic. The smell of the grass, the fresh air, the familiar surroundings, man I miss baseball and everything that goes with it. I miss the ping of the bat, roar of the crowd, pitchers working, infielders diving, outfielders throwing, catchers getting dirty, and even bad umpire calls. Baseball cannot return soon enough.

I have a faculty meeting tomorrow morning and then my department meeting, each on zoom. I assume we will receive information on grading, graduation, and moving the WR sports dead period. Grades are due this weekend, so make sure all our players have their grades updated and all assignments are in.

Oh Canada…  After stops at Prince Albert and Saskatoon, Coach Wife and I are off to Moose Jaw. We will partake in both “Tunnels of Moose Jaw” tours.

Stay the course. Keep your family healthy and safe. I have hope that I will see everyone soon.


Wednesday April 22, 2020

Enjoyed my meeting with the sophomores today, I will meet with the freshmen tomorrow using this link- https://zoom.us/j/94176973617?pwd=R2xMMGwwcFM0ZHE4ME9PV3krcEtjQT09

Tomorrow I am going to try and work on the field. I promised my admin I would do it alone.  Would love help, but the campus is closed. So please do not come my way. I will post pictures tomorrow night.

The weather is finally starting to feel like baseball season. Some sunshine and heat. This will make me miss baseball even more. Looking back on this lost season, the rain would have made this spring super challenging.

Keep checking the summer page. As there are official changes, I will post them and make adjustments to the schedules.

Congrats on the West Ranch family, as the national rankings have our school in the top 5% in the country. This is includes all high schools, both private and public. What an accomplishment. You all had a part in it and should be proud.

My Canadian online adventure continues, tonight I am in Prince Albert and will travel to Saskatoon tomorrow.

Stay safe everyone, and take care of others!


Tuesday April 21, 2020

Good chatting with the juniors today. Sophomores tomorrw using this link- https://zoom.us/j/99142513449?pwd=R0RsK3NUTUNvakQ5MG4vWHp0QWRzUT09

Check out our summer schedule for changes. Once camp or games are officially moved, then the summer schedule will reflect it. There is now a lot of movement regarding WR Baseball summer plans.

West Ranch HS received some high marks from US News and World Report. It is nice to be recognized for the efforts of the students, faculty, and community. We all know how special a place WRHS is, but always reassuring to have it verified by an outside source. Our West Ranch family should be proud!

Thursday, I get to go to the field and mow the infield. I don’t have a green thumb, but for some reason I am especially excited to do some yard work!  I promised I would go alone, so please resist the temptation to come help. I will take pictures.

My Canadian virtual adventure continues. A long hike to Grey Owl’s Cabin in Prince Albert National Park is on the itinerary today.

Please stay safe and healthy. I miss all of you and can’t wait to get the all clear to play the game we love!


Monday April 20, 2020

Great talking to the seniors and the parents today. Love seeing everyone. Wish it was at WR.

Tomorrow I will meet with the Juniors, here is the link- https://zoom.us/j/92583301674?pwd=WWZIY1JwSXpJWlZzVlNmcUsxYnQ4dz09

Summer is changing, daily now. Morning camp might start June 22 instead of June 8. If this happens, we will be canceling all games and tournaments in June. We would then have camp go for 4 weeks instead of 3 weeks. Monday - Thursday 7:30-9am. Last camp date would be Thursday July 16. Waiting for WR admin to confirm. You can keep up with confirmed changes and info HERE.

We have also moved our annual SCV Tournament to July 10-13. We are getting great reaction to this tournament with several schools committing to play and many college coaches and pro scouts asking to attend. The tourney we host will be a labor of love and is a work in progress. We have jumped into the Oarnage County Dana Hills Tourney the following weekend July 17 & 18.

JV games will be schedule in July as well. We will keep updating the summer page.

Incoming freshmen camp may start June 22 as well. If this happens, we will go for 4 weeks instead of 3 weeks. Monday - Thursday 8:30-10am. Last date would be Thursday July 16.

If any of the above changes conflict with vacations, that is OK. Enjoy your vacation. All is good. We will see you before and after your travels.

My Canadian virtual tour takes East of Edmonton and up to Prince Albert National Park.

Stay safe and hang in there!


Sunday April 19, 2020

Looking forward to chatting with the seniors tomorrow at noon.  Here is the senior meeting link- https://zoom.us/j/94854434309?pwd=TlVwWk1mNXdXclNJSElNZ0x3NGFuUT09

Parent meeting tomorrow night at 7pm. Topics will include new summer plans and our senior online awards night.  Here is the zoom.com meeting link- https://zoom.us/j/91633951497?pwd=Q2lncWZ4a2puT002akJNYUk5NkhpZz09

I must have my picture taken at the statue of my favorite athlete Wayne Gretzky. HERE is info about the statue.

Look forward to all our zoom meetings this week.

Be safe everyone!


Saturday April 18, 2020

My nephew Blake’s birthday today and my mother-in-law made her famous taco dinner to celebrate.  So, we went and picked up the meal and ate back at the Burrill Bunker.  Delicious as always.

Coach Lindgreen child #3 is due April 25.  They are ready and are in full prep mode.  Coach Lindgreen will be able to be with his wife during labor and birth.  He just can’t leave the hospital, once he does he can’t go back.  I will keep you all posted!

T-Dog continues to pass all his testing with UPS to become a driver.  Very excited for him.  Coach Imbert started a real estate position and is excited for his new job.

Other coaches are bored but safe and healthy. They miss baseball and all of you!

My Canadian online adventure takes me to the city of Edmonton and North America’s largest mall- Visit HERE.

No new updates today for West Ranch Baseball.  I will chat with all the parents Monday night at 7pm. Topics will include new summer plans and our senior online awards night.  Here is the zoom.com meeting link- https://zoom.us/j/91633951497?pwd=Q2lncWZ4a2puT002akJNYUk5NkhpZz09

I will chat with the seniors on Monday at noon.  Here is the senior meeting link- https://zoom.us/j/94854434309?pwd=TlVwWk1mNXdXclNJSElNZ0x3NGFuUT09

Have a great Sunday and I will chat with everyone during the week.

Stay safe everyone!


Friday April 17, 2020

We have officially postponed our JV early June trip to Las Vegas.  If you paid for a room at the South Point, you will get a full refund.  We are going to also work on moving our Varsity June 6-7 tourney.  Details coming soon.  As of now morning summer camps for Varsity/JV and incoming freshmen are still on.  Camp starts Monday June 8.  Crossing my fingers that this date will hold.  IF we can start on June 8 with practices and go for a week or two, I believe we could then start to play some games in the middle of June.  That is our current plan.

Had our faculty meeting this morning.  Department meeting in the afternoon.  Lots of discussion on grading policy now that we are on extended distant learning.  Also some ideas are being thrown around for graduation and check-out issues like text books, chrome books, uniforms, PE lockers, yearbooks, etc…  Admin working on all these issues. Graded a bunch today, student work still looks really good. My students are all hanging in there. Miss them.

Learned all about septic tanks today after our new house had it's septic inspection and cleaning.  Kinda gross and interesting all at the same time.  Who knew?!?

Canadian tour continues, up to Jasper we go!  This is my favorite spot so far.  Bucket list location for sure.

Parent meeting on Monday on zoom.com at 7pm.

Stay stay my friends!


Thursday April 16, 2020

Good chat with the freshmen today.  They all look great.  Monday April 20 we will have our 3rd distance learning parent meeting, 7pm on Zoom.  Look for a link on my Sunday night blog.

LA City schools have already canceled all summer on campus events.  There is chatter from government officials that our “safer at home” orders may be extended into the end of summer.  Our school district is already hinting towards online summer school.  I just don’t like where this is going.  I am not confident in a June baseball start.  We are going to postpone the JV Las Vegas trip June 5-7.  Make-up dates TBA.  Summer schedule online will be updated soon.  Good chance we move the Varsity tournament we were going to host on the first weekend in June.  Our arms will not be ready to host 3-4 games that weekend.  When we return to baseball, there will need to be great care given to our arms.

Senior baseball awards ceremony is now in full swing.  Date and time coming soon.  As I have talked to all the players this week, they agree it is the right event to proceed with.  We will be handing out our scholarship awards as well.

Make sure you are following the West Ranch High School social media accounts. We have started featuring West Ranch seniors from all spring sports. 

You should watch tomorrow's WRTV virtual show at noon- Watch HERE.

The Burrill family move to the mountains continues to press on.  So far so good.  Days moving quicker now as I have a daily list of tasks to complete.

Continuing my virtual tour of Canada, tonight I visited the following Calgary locations- Heritage Park Museum, Calgary Zoo, Glenbow Museum, Calgary Tower, and the Studio Bell.

Stay home, stay safe, and stay healthy!  I miss you!


Wednesday April 15, 2020

Chatted with the Sophomores today, tomorrow I will meet with the Freshmen here- https://zoom.us/j/95385139083?pwd=N0NxVVB2UUJLYk9LZ2xWeXZBRDQ0QT09

West Ranch baseball coaches have decided to hold an awards ceremony honoring our 8 seniors. We will live stream on the internet. Date and time TBA. Our four scholarship awards will be handed out as well.

Make sure you are following the West Ranch High School social media accounts.  We have started featuring West Ranch seniors from all spring sports.

The first weekend in June for the JV in Las Vegas has been postponed.  I will update the baseball website soon to reflect this change.  Varsity hosts a tournament that same weekend and we are deciding if we should postpone our event.

After 20+ years with ATT, our family switched to Verizon today.  All 4 family phones.  Verizon employee Edward was awesome, but what a long process.  We were able to keep our phone numbers.  Out some cash, but there is no ATT cell reception in Pine Mountain Club.  Our family had no cell service this evening for 5 hours while making the switch, the horror!

Found civilization today in Canada as we headed into Calgary.  So of course, it is time for the world-famous Calgary Stampede.

Stay safe everyone.  Can’t wait to see all the players on the field.

Shelter in Place!


Tuesday April 14, 2020

Enjoyed my time with the Juniors today, tomorrow I will meet with the Sophomores here- https://zoom.us/j/95772479227?pwd=bEdGTEpycGZUcEI0QytoYk40RnBYZz09

Made a Costco run to get Papa Burrill’s meds. Painless trip, Coach Wife and I went around 5:30pm and Costco was not busy.  Dad is re-stocked.

Several So Cal high school baseball coaches have started a movement for all-league and all-CIF selections. Only seniors would be eligible. The West Ranch coaching staff supports this movement.

West Ranch baseball coaches have decided to hold an awards ceremony honoring our 8 seniors. We will live stream on the internet. Date and time TBA. Our four scholarship awards will be handed out as well. This event is a work in progress, details coming soon.

My family is starting to pack now at a faster pace. May 2nd is the move date.  Hired a moving company to take the big items up to Pine Mountain Club. We are excited. Days are going quicker now because I have something to do. But I am exhausted. Out of shape. Three weeks of eating and watching TV has taken it’s toll.

In Canada on my virtual trip I climbed Mount Yamnuska today. Breathtaking views!

Stay safe everyone.  I miss you!


Monday April 13, 2020

We were back to school today. Great interacting with all my students. I miss them terribly.
Several of our seniors are finding their way to college baseball destinations. We will share later this month. But it is exciting talking to them as they plan for fall 2020. Tomorrow I will meet online with the Juniors at noon- https://zoom.us/j/99290108195?pwd=OU1pME9CWFN3WkhtWFQ4d05YSzh2QT09

Our first summer weekend of JV baseball is in jeopardy. I will know more in about a week. The coaches in Las Vegas are looking to push back their summer tournaments. This would mean that our JV summer players would not travel to Las Vegas the first weekend of June. We were planning on staying at the South Point and playing three games for each of our two JV teams. Once this is official, I will post with more information. As of now, our Varsity tournament at West Ranch for June 6 & 7 is still on.

LA City schools have now canceled gatherings of any kind on their campuses for the entire summer. This of course, would include sports. Our district is rumored to be discussing online summer school. So, we will see how this all shakes out for our baseball summer. West Ranch Baseball is still committed to a summer baseball program in any form.

Baseball coaches are still working on a “ceremony” that would honor our seniors. They are the ones that were robbed of the most enjoyable time of their high school career. We will roll out some details here when plans are solidified.

I am hoping to make a run to the baseball field next week. There is chatter that West Ranch will have a day where teachers can go back to their classrooms. As difficult as it has been, I have done my part. Staying home and only venturing out for food. And of course, the occasional walk for Max around the neighborhood. I wonder what our field looks like after all that rain? I will take pictures and post here.

My Canada tour continues to Grassi Lakes and Ha Ling Peak both just outside of Canmore. I am just west of Calgary.

Hope everyone is safe and healthy.

Stay home!


Sunday April 12, 2020

Hope everyone had a great Easter Sunday. I will meet with the seniors tomorrow at noon- https://zoom.us/j/95358073020?pwd=RGJUWEF5YUNpVDhZOEN1ckdwa3dCZz09

Today was full contacting friends and family. I heard from several WR Baseball alumni, coaches, and parents. Great catching-up with all of them. Had a chance to chat with some former teammates, roommates, and classmates. Everyone is doing well. Positive and upbeat.

My virtual Canadian trip continues. Another hike today, Bow Glacier Falls.  Watch Video HERE.

Tomorrow school starts again, and the never-ending flow of emails start. Zero complaints, just honored to be working with my students and thankful for a paycheck.
Coach Wife continues to make a bunch of food for us.  Today was no different.  We did get a couple thoughtful deliveries.  My niece dropped off some cookies.  Corey’s girlfriend delivered some freshly baked bread.  Delicious! 

Team Grandpa needs some supplies, so Coach Wife and I will head out sometime tomorrow to Costco where his prescriptions are filled. Dad is still doing well. Says he feels great and has plenty to keep himself busy.  He has not stepped out of his house since all the craziness started. He is losing track of time and can be entertaining to chat with.

Let’s have a great week!

Hang in there and spread some cheer!


Saturday April 11, 2020

Ordered La Cocina take-out tonight. Delicious of course. There was a line to grab and pay! Love that they are busy and will make it. Feel for their servers who are not working. We frequent the restaurant often; they have such friendly workers who know us by name.

It is a holiday week/weekend, enjoy the festivities and my best to you and your loved ones.
More pictures and videos came in from the baseball parents today. I really appreciate these captured moments, more then you know. West Ranch baseball players are still working on their craft. Lifting weights, hitting, throwing, running, arm care, reading mental toughness articles, and watching instructional videos were all moments caught by the parents and sent my way. It inspires me. Our boys are so resilient. And the creativity in a time like this is amazing.

The Burrill’s can’t resist. We have started to do some packing. But really, we are purging. Feels great to part ways with so many items we just never use. We stop and look at old mementos and photographs. All seems like just yesterday. Our family has come so far and the future is bright. Just got to get past this pandemic. We will.

Hiked up to devil’s thumb above Lake Louise today. Watch video HERE.

Back to school next week. New material and some assignments added for my students. No baseball parent meeting Monday. I will meet with Seniors Monday at noon. Make sure all our players are completing the fitness log and watching videos in baseball class Google Classroom.

Have a great holiday tomorrow. Love you all!

Missing the daily grind…


Friday April 10, 2020

Thinking of these guys today...

Waiting to hear about senior "Plan B" activities for yearbook, grad night, prom, senior awards, and graduation. I believe our school/district will put something together. Even if these events happen virtually. I know it is not the same, but times have changed. There needs to be some closure to their high school careers. Administration is working on it. Timing is everything, as we all just received extended shelter in place orders. May 15 is now the mandate.

In my weekly meetings with the players, I have stressed to the boys about staying physical and moving. I am getting a bunch of workout pictures and videos from their parents. Keep them coming. Players inspired me to get on our stationary bike today. Poor bike...

In Banff Canada it is time to hike Twin Cairns-Meadow Park / Sunshine Meadows Loop. Video HERE.

Some of you have been asking about our move. As you know, our house is in Escrow and "seems" to be moving forward, even in these strange economic times. With the sale we will be able to cover all our college costs as Kari graduated last semester form CS Channel Islands and Corey graduates this semester from USC.

In looking for a new Burrill home, we have decided to hit the highways and join the many teachers at West Ranch who commute. Several WR staff members commute from Burbank, San Fernando Valley, Simi Valley, Frazier Park, Vasquez, Palmdale, etc... Most say it is a positive esperience because they love where they live. Coach Wife and I have always wanted to call the mountains home, so we have decided on a house in Pine Mountain Club. Now we can hike right out our backdoor. Hopefully both sales will go smooth and by the end of April we will be making the trip up the 5. Coaching and teaching at WR will not change. Just a 50min commute added to the day. Shoot, you all know where I live now in Canyon Country, at 4pm or later it takes me 40min to navigate Santa Clarita. We are excited and nervous. If all goes well, I will not be bored anymore, as I will be packing.

Looking forward to the day I am on Wildcat Field with the West Ranch players and coaches. I am miserable without baseball.

Stay safe everyone and take care of others in this difficult time!

I miss all of you!

Have a great weekend!


Thursday April 9, 2020

Chatted with the freshmen today, always good to see the youngsters. Discussed starting baseball in June. That is still the plan. Fingers crossed.

I continue to receive emails and texts of our players working out and doing other family activities. Really, this communication has been amazing! I so miss all the players. No competition with these fine young men is killing me. So much time, energy, money, and passion went into the preparation for the 2020 spring season. Dang it!

Tomorrow is Friday… right?!?! Spring break is coming to an end. Usually spring break races past, but not this year. Slooowwww.

Coach Wife and I made a Sam's Club run late tonight, just before they closed. No one there, much better. No horded items, but plenty of food which is what we were chasing. Hit Walmart last week mid-morning, what a disaster. People everywhere. Very uncomfortable.

I really need to go to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake HERE

Stay safe my friends!


Wednesday April 8, 2020

Chatted with the sophomores today, look forward to seeing the freshmen tomorrow. Here is the freshmen meeting link- https://zoom.us/j/248203676?pwd=UjdENzlUYkdnbk5QTUlCT3h0ODBMZz09

Spring break in the Burrill Bunker is good, of course not ideal. We are still playing a bunch of games, watching Netflix, and playing video games. Most of these activities are together as a family. We have laughed and cried. But I can honestly say, this family time has been the most positive thing to come from these desperate times. Our family of four has never been closer. I pray that all of you are experiencing the same.

Shout out to all our first responders and medical workers. You are all my heroes!

Staying in Glacier National Park Canada style for a while. I cannot wait to get there one day and hike!

Love you all, stay safe!


Tuesday April 7, 2020

Chatted with the juniors today, look forward to seeing the sophomores tomorrow. Here is the sophomore meeting link- https://zoom.us/j/244363719?pwd=ZzZlc0ltdCtIQ29UQWxQSkx2REc5UT09

When it wasn't raining, I was walking the dog. Good to be outside. We have our supplies for the next 10-14 days as all the government officials are saying this is a critical time of not going to the stores. So we will do our part.

Appreciate all the emails and text updates. Love seeing how everyone is doing. Keep them coming! Pictures and videos especially appreciated.

Canadian trip update- made it to Glacier National Park Canada!

See the sophomores tomorrow. Have a great rest of your spring break!

Stay safe everyone, miss you! Much love from the Burrill Bunker...


Monday April 6, 2020

It was good seeing everyone in the parent meeting tonight and the seniors earlier in the day. Tomorrow I will meet with the Juniors at 12pm. Here is the link- https://zoom.us/j/442291696?pwd=UWJ5eEJJMGJNMDFDVnMvV2FqVWlGZz09

I am in Kamloops Canada now following the Trans-Canada Hwy 1. Beautiful!

I hope everyone enjoys their spring break!

Best to all!

Stay inside!


Sunday April 5, 2020

It was good Sunday, quiet and relaxing. Assuming more of these tyoe of days coming...

Getting a bunch done on the computer for my classes and summer baseball.  I am still moving forward with the June baseball schedule, but I am now putting together a July back-up plan as well.  There is really no guidance yet on CIF dead period removal/change and our baseball morning camps. Just too much unknown at this time. So, I am making sure our summer is flexible if we have to make changes to it.

Tomorrow zoom.com meetings will have passwords to get in.  I will give out the 7pm parent password via Mrs. Callahan and the Remind App.  The 12pm senior meeting password will be sent to them via group text message.

7pm Parent Meeting Link- https://zoom.us/j/985010760?pwd=OFBDOFJDMU5mQnVnU29VZXNVbm4vQT09

12pm Senior Meeting- https://zoom.us/j/865582543?pwd=bEIxeHhYMDJTdHpYd3luUEphazk3QT09

Sounds like the news about the virus next couple weeks will be bad. I am praying and hoping for the best. My family will double down to not leave the house.

I am enjoying my virtual trip across Canada, traveling West to East focusing on hiking trails. One day Coach Wife and I will make it up there in the Burrill Motorhome (we have named our future rig- The Tantive IV). Took in YouTube videos about Vancouver area and hikes at- Stawamus Chief Provincial Park, Watersprite Lake Trail, and a trip to the Sea to Sky Gondola.

Anyways, enough about me. How is everyone doing?  Stir crazy? Learning something new and using your time wisely? Enjoying family? Keep me updated. I enjoy the emails and texts.

Take care everyone.  Hunker Down and Fight On!


Saturday April 4, 2020

First day of spring break! Varsity would heave been at the National Classic BBQ and Home Run Contest today. Remember when Jagger Rusconi took the HR Derby contest in 2015? Here is a video of his performance with Coach Brady Burrill on the bump- YouTube Video

Speaking of Coach Brady Burril, we were able to see him and his family today. We did a drive-by. They hung out in their driveway and we stayed in the car on the street. Was nice to have a conversation where we could see someone without a video screen. Ordered take-out from Chi-Chi's last night for dinner. Fantastic. Otherwise, a fairly lazy day. I will need to move and accomplish more tomorrow.

Hope you are all safe and healthy!

Have a great Sunday!


Friday April 3, 2020

I am still struggling to come to grips with no finish to our season. My heart breaks for the seniors. Eight amazing young men who are destined for greatness.

Grading for this week is done. My AP computer science students are amazing. They are continuing their education with minimal problems. The future of our country is in good hands!

Off to spring break I go! I will continue to post each day. Looking forward to "traveling" to Canada. Online of course. I will post pictures.

Spring break should be a return to the National Classic Baseball Tournament to defend our 2019 title! We will have to try and defend the title in 2021. HERE is a link to our National Classic webpage to travel down memory lane and think of what would have been this next week.

Stay safe everyone! I truly miss all of you!

Thursday April 2, 2020

Official, no onsite school for the remainder of the semester. Felt this coming. We will still have school, there will still be grades, and distance learning will be the lasting legacy of this unbelievable school year.

Spring baseball season is officially canceled. I have no words. I am going stir crazy. I miss everyone, I think that is the hardest part. Players, students, coaches, staff, families, coworkers, opponents, media, and even the umpires are sorely missed. June baseball is on. Crossing my fingers and hoping that will be our return to Wildcat Field.

We will have a 2020 banquet. I do not know how or when... I will keep you updated here.

Zoom.com meetings will continue during spring break. Next parent meeting will be Monday night 7pm. I will continue my weekly meetings with the players at lunch (noon)- Seniors Monday, Juniors Tuesday, Sophomores Wednesday, and Freshmen Thursday.

Well, tomorrow faculty meeting, department meeting, and then help students with their work. Then off to spring break. I think I will travel virtually this year. Maybe an online trip to Canada? What will you and your family be doing?

Stay safe everyone! Enjoy your staycation!


Wednesday April 1, 2020

No April's Fool joke today. Still avoiding people.

Zoom meeting with the Sophomores today. They all looked and sounded great. Some new haircuts! Fantastic!

Here is the zoom.com link for the Freshmen tomorrow- https://zoom.us/j/695040028

Announcement from the district about finishing the school year online has to be coming soon. If we do not go back to school this semester, then we will find a new date and location for a "banquet". We can still honor our seniors and celebrate all the time and energy we put into the year.

Stay safe everyone. Hang in there!


Tuesday March 31, 2020

Last day of March. April Fool’s Day is tomorrow. Sure would be nice if someone would just come out and say all this madness was just a big joke.

I will meet with the Sophomores tomorrow on zoom. Here is the link- https://zoom.us/j/684027504

Today I saw Coach Brady Burrill at West Ranch. Saw my sister Mitzi. Each from a distance but it was great to see them both. I miss so many people.

My family sat out on our driveway with our lawn chairs and watched people taking walks and getting their dogs out of the house. Was fun to talk to the neighbors. This pandemic is affecting people in so many ways.

Looks more and more like we will finish the semester away from West Ranch. Waiting for an official announcement from our district. If that happens, a bunch of decisions will need to be made in terms of activities, sports, graduation, etc... As I hear, I will let you all know.

Take care everyone!  And check on your neighbors!

 


Monday March 30, 2020

I will meet with the Juniors Tuesday at noon, here is the zoom link- https://zoom.us/j/134232753

Connected with my students today. All 3 online classes are running smoothly. Web Design 1, Web Design 2, and AP Computer Science all seem to be going well. Students are on top of their work and the communication has been fantastic.

My son Corey is finishing his last semester at USC, and he had his first online midterm this afternoon. A timed test that locked him out of the rest of the computer functions. I assume as our teachers at WR start to give assessments they will use a similar tool.

We are keeping our distance from others. Our little Burrill pack of 4 do everything together. But there are times when we need our space, and everyone has found a room to hide. My children miss their significant others, and I feel for them. But we are staying strong and the 4 of us have made a pact to distance ourselves.

I have taken the time to reach out electronically to old friends. I would never have had the time to do so. It has been amazing to catch-up with so many wonderful people who I do not communicate with anymore. And the only reason I have not had past contact is because I have declared myself too busy. Find someone you miss and reach out to them.  You will be glad you did.

Talked to the WR baseball seniors this afternoon. We discussed the changing college baseball landscape. And sure enough, it changed just a few hours after we chatted. College baseball seniors have the option of returning for another season of baseball. It will be interesting to see what that means for our WRHS baseball seniors. More details and information are coming from the NCAA.  College baseball coaches are looking for more recruiting instructions.

MLB trying to figure out the draft. One rumor is just 15 rounds. If that is the case, then that sends even more young players into the college baseball mix. Suddenly, the college baseball rosters become super competitive.

I am looking forward to the next baseball practice. Hopefully in early May. I say my baseball prayers each night.

Stay inside my friends!


Sunday March 29, 2020

As you probably noticed, I have an archive now for all my older daily updates. The home page of the baseball site was getting too cluttered and way too long. HERE is the archive link.

Took a nice 6 1/2 mile hike up and around Castaic Lake this morning. Most of you know Coach Wife, Max, and I have a Sunday morning crew who we hike with. You would know either via the parent meetings or Facebook. Feel free to add me as a friend if you want. I am kinda boring on Facebook, but I get tagged a bunch. This morning our hiking crew got after it, but it was different, we all arrived and started our hike at 10 minute staggered start times. First hiker went out at 6:30am. Coach Wife, Max, our son Corey, and I had the last time slot at 7:40am. It was hilarious, we saw most of our friends from a distance and yelled and waved. We have a spot where we typically take a group picture with the lake in the background. So, we all stopped there, at different times of course, and took a selfie. Everyone left rocks, sticks, or pinecones where they had stood. You just can't make this stuff up. Will this virus please go away? I miss all my peeps!! Extended family, students, friends, baseball players, etc... I insanely miss everyone!!

Photoshop version below...

Tomorrow I will zoom with the seniors at noon. Here is the link- https://zoom.us/j/658347123

Next parent Zoom meeting will be at 7pm a week from tomorrow on April 6.

Teachers can go to school on Tuesday this week. We have been told it will be the last time for while. Sigh... I signed-up for a time slot and can be there for just 50min. Baseball field is calling me. Social Disatancing will be enforced.

"Enjoy" our 3rd week of flattening the curve. I believe it will take all of us to observe social distancing for the curve to flatten. The Burrill's are doing their part!

Have a wonderful week, of course it will be what you make of it!


Saturday March 28, 2020

Went hiking in SCV, didn't see others. Social distancing easy, thought maybe there would be more people on the trail because it is Saturday. Got 5 miles in.

Still laying low. No trips out of the house other than the hike with Coach Wife and Max. Netflix and food. Losing track of days as students send me work to grade around the clock. So, I grade around the clock. All good, making it work.

No news on the school or baseball fronts. I will sign-off for today. Have a great Sunday everyone. See the Seniors Monday at noon on Zoom.

No baseball is slowly killing me…

Love and miss you all!


Friday March 27, 2020

2 weeks today since I have seen my students and all the baseball players. Feels like it has been 2 years.  The days go so slow…

Had our faculty meeting today via zoom.com and a department meeting in the afternoon. Great to see and chat with all my co-workers.

Went out to Sam’s Club this evening to grab some items, solid food choices in the evening, but no hoarded items available.  I guess to get those products you have to wait in line early in the morning.  We are just not at that point yet in the Burrill Bunker.  But plenty of food. And no one in the store at 8pm, so social distancing was easy. Coach Wife and I wore masks and took hand sanitizer with us. Trying to do things right.

Stay safe everyone, enjoy some family time. Start a hobby. Read a book. We will get passed this.

Love and miss you all!

Thursday March 26, 2020

I have now video conferenced with all the players and parents. Appreciate everyone participating in the zoom.com meetings. We will keep meetings at noon with seniors Monday, Juniors Tuesday, Sophomore on Wednesday, and Freshmen on Thursday. Next parent meeting will be Monday April 6 at 7pm.

The district put out some information to teachers. There will probably not be a pass/fail for grades at the high school level. It is possible at JrHS level, but district is still communicating with CA Education Department.

Teachers are to give the grade "missing" to all assignments not turned in while we are on distant learning. Teachers are available Friday 9am-12pm for any help students need.

Isolate your family and save a life!

Miss you all!


Wednesday March 25, 2020

I "saw" the sophomores this afternoon on zoom.com. Great seeing them today. Some new hairstyles, one that was great, many that were not! Haha!

Freshmen are on for tomorrow, follow this link- https://zoom.us/j/881667305

Watching some Netflix shows. 2-3 at a time. My daughter Kari has been my viewing partner. We laugh and cry together. It has been awesome. When would we have ever done this?

But the big news today was I got permission to go to the field. I was one with the quad today, we were reunited!. So, when we finally get back to playing, Wildcat Field will be ready! It was therapeutic. Man, I sure do miss baseball and all the players. Even some of the coaches... Take care everyone. Hoping for an all-clear sooner than later! Until then, stay safe.


Tuesday March 24, 2020

I "Saw" the juniors this afternoon on zoom.com. They all looked great and sounded upbeat. Miss this guys.

Wednesday at noon I will meet with the Sophomores. Here is the link zoom.com- https://zoom.us/j/459294391

I am going to go over to school today. Will be my first time back. I will take a few pictures. Envisioning a scene from The Walking Dead with a place that looks deserted for years, but I know the campus will be great and will welcome me back.  I was told that I must go to campus alone and avoid all other school employees.  District is brining in a custodian to clean my room and disinfect when I am gone. They are telling me that I will not be back to school anytime soon, so I must grab what I need. Making my list.

I am still working on financial information for our account.  As soon as I will hear, I will let you know.

Players need to continue to comple the baseball class Google Classroom requirements.

Hope everyone has a great hump day tomorrow!

Thank you for the emails, texts, and phone call updates. The photos too! They make me smile. Everyone has been so upbeat and positive. Amazing to see how our players are using their time to do/try other things.

Stay safe everyone and enjoy your family!


Monday March 23, 2020

We had a parent meeting tonight. 48 people joined us, thank you! Was great to "see" everyone again. We agreed to meet again using zoom.com in 2 weeks on April 6 at 7pm.

I am going to meet with the juniors Tuesday at 12pm on zoom.com. Here is the zoom.com link- https://zoom.us/j/928328565

I will keep working on the financial side of things. There are more questions than answers today.

Looks like I can go to the field and my classroom on Wednesday afternoon in a 3 hour window. I will give you more details tomorrow. Look forward to being there it has been 10 days since I last saw the WR baseball field. I will work on the canteen and find out if anyone can join me.

Stay safe and stay inside!


Sunday March 22, 2020

OK, the first two meetings of distant baseball learning are on!

Seniors Meeting March 23, high noon- Meeting Link- https://zoom.us/j/291611257

Parent Meeting March 23, 7pm- Meeting Link- https://zoom.us/j/319531022

We will be meeting using zoom.com. Free service to meet and video chat with each other. Let me know if any issues. Look forward to "seeing" the seniors and the parents tomorrow! I recomend being in a quiet place with no background noise. If you are struggling to get set-up, ask your son. He can get it working for you.

We will set-up meetings for the other grade levels as the week moves on. I will contact the players.

Max, Coach Wife, and I got out for a hike today. Just awesome. I recomend getting out and going for a walk, hike, or run. Fresh air was beautiful. My family of four has taken the "safer at home" very serious. We are doing our part and staying home. Hope you all feel the same way.

Get your questions ready for our meetings tomorrow!

Have a great Sunday. Stay home, and save a life.


Saturday March 21, 2020

The ability to leave our house continues to get restricted. I think Coach Wife and I will take a shot at a hike Sunday morning, just to get out and move. Our dog Max is going stir crazy. His short walks in our neighborhood is not enough for him. We will avoid people!

So, let's do a parent meeting Monday night at 7pm using zoom.com. You can use a computer, cell, tablet, or laptop. Here is the link to join the meeting Monday night- https://zoom.us/j/319531022. You will need to download the app/program, depending on the device you will use. Then make an account. It is free to join and use. Look forward to giving this a shot!

I will try and meet with the seniors Monday afternoon at noon. I will text them individually to set it up.

Can't wait to "see" the seniors Monday afternoon and the parents Monday night! It has been too long!

Take care everyone.

Stay home and save a life!


Friday March 20, 2020

Well, it looks like May 4th would be the earliest we could return for school. Extending out the distance learning even more. My gut tells me we don't make it back to the campus until August. I really hope I am wrong.

I continue to stay busy. We had our first online faculty meeting in the morning. Then I communicated with about 20 students who were turning in classwork. After that we had a department meeting. It was great to "see" all my coworkers today. Miss them.  They all seem to be holding up well and are staying positive.

What do you all think of having a Seniors online video chat (zoom.com) on Monday at noon?  Then Juniors Tuesday, Sophomores Wednesday, and Freshmen on Thursday? I would love it. I will get you more details Saturday/Sunday. I think it would be awesome to get us all together and chat.

And on that note, how about a virtual parent meeting Monday night at 7pm?  zoom.com Information coming soon!

Keep the emails, pictures, texts, and videos coming. They make me smile!

Everyone hang in there.  We got this!

Stay inside and save a life!

Peace!


Thursday March 19, 2020

I am glad I am "blogging" here each night, it helps me keep track of days.  They are starting to blur.  You all know I am long winded.  My family is glad I can express my thoughts here, they are tired of hearing it!

Well, we got the order “Safer at Home” from the Governor and now most non-essential businesses are closed. I feel for everyone who will be impacted financially. I feel for the small business owners. So many of these businesses have supported our baseball program over the years. It is heartwarming to hear the stories of major corporations and the governments who are coming to the aid of Americans. This is the American spirit of old. The people that my grandfather told me of. The generations that I read about in history books. Once this incredible time in our nations’ history passes, I believe that we will emerge as a better society. All Americans united as one people with love and compassion for others.

Man do I miss the baseball players. Missing my students too! I get to interact with my students online now, but it is just a fraction of the interaction we used to have. I miss classes, practices, banter, meals, laughs, meetings, BP, games, game day attire, and really just the normal daily grind.  Funny, when you are in it you don’t see how much fun it is. Now being out of it, I would give anything to get back in.

Players and students can now never take for granted what you had. Every time you put the uniform on, it could be your last. Every time you say you love your mom; it could be your last.

Your West Ranch teachers are incredible! They are working so hard to give you an educational experience and make the best of this situation. Love the stories I am hearing of the online process. We have our first online faculty meeting tomorrow morning! Make sure you are communicating with your teachers the way they have requested. And do your schoolwork!

Counselors and administrators are online via email and are ready to assist you with anything you may need. Even the wellness center is online via email and ready to render aide as needed.

Seniors, this is just crazy stuff.  Hollywood movie type nonsense. You will pick yourself up and lead our great nation. We are so lucky to have you as future citizens and adults. Our country is in great hands! Please, finish high school strong. No matter what format high school will be in.

Parents, hang in there!  You got this!  Lead by example at home. Hold onto the precious moments you have with your kids. This will be over soon, and it will have been what you made of it. Coach Wife and I are thankful we have both our kids back at home. We are spending priceless time together. I am hoping you are having the same experience.

Please do not go to West Ranch for any reason.  The campus is closed.  Do not use the baseball facility.

All the WR baseball coaches are here to help.  Please let us know if you need anything!

Let’s flatten the curve.  Stay home and save a life!

Love and miss you all!

God bless!


Wednesday March 18, 2020

Greetings from the Burrill Bunker.

I feel like the "shelter at home" decision is coming. I hope not, but Northern California is doing it now. This is just crazy stuff. What a difference one week makes. We should have played Valencia today…  Go Cats!

Hope you all are doing well. I am a little stir crazy, but safe and healthy. I have my family of 4 and I am thankful to be spending time with them. We have never talked so much as a family. We have laughed and cried today. Interesting it took a pandemic too bring us all together and take us away from our busy days.  Hope you are reuniting with your family as well.

Took Coach Wife and Max (Belgian Malinois) out for a 2+ mile walk today in the cool air. Was refreshing and much needed.

We cannot use the baseball field. No cages! Our admin will be calling the Sherriff to have trespassers arrested. I have had my job threatened. Please help with this. No one should be out of their house anyway. Stay home and save a life.

If you want to help Ronnie Wald, you can use Venmo- @ronnie-wald. Many have helped already. He is overwhelmed by the generosity of the WR Baseball Family.

I taught my first online class today at 1pm. Sorted thru 221 emails of assignments and questions. I was exhausted, but it was so great to "see" all my students. They are so energetic and ready to learn. They cranked thru my assignments with nothing but maturity and excitement. So proud to be their teacher. Teenagers are so darn resilient.

So, I sign off tonight wishing you all the best. Hope you feel safe, content, and optimistic. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to contact me.  I would be happy to help!  Please keep your baseball players in the house, don't let them out. We must all do our part, including our youth!

Better days are coming.

Miss and love you all!


Tuesday March 17, 2020

Online school starts tomorrow! Visit this page if you are not sure what is happening.

Our broadcaster Ronnie Wald has fallen on hard times. If you want to donate, drop me a note. He does rely on the income of his broadcasts to stay afloat. As you know, there are no sporting events for him to broadcast..

I continue to hear from players and families. They are just giving me updates on how they are dealing with the "stay at home" environment. Love all the quick notes and pictures, keep them coming. I sent text messages to my former coaches to check on them, some laughs and some heartache over postponed baseball. Even Skip (Coach Gillespie) is texting these days!

Coach Wife and I made a trip in the middle of the day to Walmart and we were able to buy much of what we needed. Used the shopping cart to keep people 6 feet away! It was our first time shopping since the hoarding. Bizarre to see empty shelves where food and paper goods used to be. They had ice cream Snickers bars!

Hope you have your loved ones with you, and you have what you need to hunker down.

Stay inside and save a life!

Miss you all!


Monday March 16, 2020

As I type, I have a diet coke and snickers bar in front of me.

I have received a bunch of nice emails and texts. Thank you! Bummed for the baseball season but thankful for all of you.

The restrictions on gatherings continue to tighten. Restaurants, bars, gyms, theatres, etc... all being asked to close or scale back. Today it was announced that no gatherings over 10 should take place and anyone over 65 should stay home. Some of you have asked about my dad. Papa Burrill is home, safe, and secure. He has everything he needs. And no, he won't let me visit him!

I had a chance to set-up my online website for my classes. All teachers will have their online classroom up and running by Wednesday morning, the official start day of class. Looks like most teachers are using Google Classroom. I have decided to stay with my classroom website www.wrwebheads.com.

Teachers could be on campus today. There was only a handful of us. Campus was quiet. Strange to see it that way on a Monday morning when students should be everywhere. Reminds me of last semester after the Saugus shooting. What a year it has been...

Of course, I went out to the baseball field. Our field is saturated, but super green. You all know I don't like field work, but I wished I could jump on the quad and start spinning the dirt. If we were playing and not suspended, all this rain would have been a nightmare. But at this point I would rather be getting muddy trying to get the field ready to play.

I already miss you all!

Be safe, be kind, and stay in shape.

Save someone's life, and stay home.


Sunday March 15, 2020

I am getting some questions from players and families. So here are some Q&As.

Please do not make monthly donations until further notice. School financial decisions will be made this week. So more info coming soon.

Will we play games again this spring? Chances are no. However, if this virus were to dissipate quickly, and April 30 we receive the OK to play again, then it is possible that we could sneak in 5-10 games before the end of the school year. I am not optimistic. This would be for the varsity level only. I do not see a scenario where there would be CIFSS playoffs this spring. But...

Can we use the field?  Can we practice?  The field may not be used until April 30 by any players, coaches, or outside groups.  Please do not enter onto campus. This includes field, cages, and bullpens. The idea is for us to have no contact with each other. Coaches are not to have contact with any students.

What are the physical expectations for the WR baseball players moving forward? We would like all the players to stay in great shape. Throw, run, and exercise. But all this needs to be done under the umbrella of a current pandemic. So train smart and train safe.

What about the baseball class? Please document twice a week your physical activity at our online baseball Google Classroom HERE.

How is school going to work for the next 3 weeks leading up to spring break.?  Well... there is a great video HERE.  And a bunch of Hart District information HERE.  Basically, you will get assignments and interact with your teacher twice a week during designated times for the subject.  And all teachers will be available Friday morning for any help and guidance.  As of now, all AP tests are on as planned.

Coach, how are you and the other coaches doing?  All the coaches are doing well.  Families are healthy. We have TP. Coaches are bummed that there is no baseball.  We miss everyone and are already starting to get bored.  Our honey-to-do lists are growing. All the coaches wish the WR baseball families nothing but the best.  And stay safe everyone, don't touch anyone or anything!!


Friday March 13, 2020

It is with great pain that we end our 2020 baseball season. The William S Hart School District has decided to suspend play until at least April 30. Our last game of the regular season lands on April 30. There does not look like a scenario where we could play again in the spring of 2020.

For our 8 seniors, it is an unfair and cruel end to your high school careers. However, you have made the program, our school, and your families proud. You are ready for life's next challenge. All 8 of you are amazing young men destined for greatness!  You have competed with grace and dignity and our entire West Ranch family wishes you all the best.  Wildcats forever!

To our returning players and families. We will rise above this. Our Cats will survive and prosper. West Ranch baseball players will be hungry for competitive baseball. We anticipate a full June schedule of baseball where we will compete and prepare ourselves for the 2021 spring season. There are no baseball practices or meetings until after spring break.

The coaching staff is here for all of you. Do not hesitate to reach out.

Stay safe everyone!

Casey Burrill
Head Baseball Coach
West Ranch HS

 

 
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