BROGAN’S HEROES
CANFIELD, OH- In the small yet vibrant sports community of South Range, Konnor Brogan has made a significant impact both on and off the baseball field. A senior pitcher for the South Range Raiders, Brogan’s journey is not just about athletic prowess but also about adaptability, resilience, and leadership. In a recent interview on YSN’s Player Profile podcast, hosted by DJ Yokley, Brogan shared insights into his high school baseball career, the transition between schools, and what lies ahead for him.
Konnor Brogan’s journey to South Range started with a significant life change. Originally from a much larger school in Pennsylvania, Brogan faced the challenges of adapting to a new community and team dynamics. “It was a huge change,” Brogan recalled. “Freshman year, you know, COVID hit, it was half hybrid, half in school. Going from a big school to being just, I felt like I wasn’t really myself there.”
However, the transition proved to be a blessing in disguise. “I felt that I was just another gear in the system,” Brogan admitted about his old school. But at South Range, he found a tightly-knit community that welcomed him with open arms. “I just remember first thing coming here after my English class, my English teacher pulls me aside and goes, ‘Hey, you know, any of the baseball guys?’”
Brogan quickly found his place in South Range’s baseball program, benefiting from a more personal and supportive environment. Reflecting on his early experiences, he said, “It’s just stuff like that you just don’t get at the bigger school. People, other people in my grade really took me in.”
One of the pivotal moments in Brogan’s high school career came during a game in Myrtle Beach this year. Despite some early shoulder issues, he managed to find his groove and deliver an outstanding performance. “I mean, you got to start with the weather,” Brogan mentioned. “Going down to Myrtle, especially to start the season, it really puts a pitcher in a great position to start the season off strong.”
As a senior, Brogan has stepped into a leadership role, helping to guide younger teammates and foster a sense of unity within the team. “I think just with all four of us, we share this role of establishing ourselves and really helping out the younger guys,” Brogan said, referring to his fellow seniors. “That’s a really big thing with me, is just knowing, especially coming from a huge school to this, I know what the change feels like, and I know what being a freshman feels like.”
Brogan credited much of his development to his coach, Jim Hannock, who has been instrumental in refining his skills. “He helped me realize what I needed to do to not only maybe gain a couple of velo, but gain a lot of control,” Brogan explained. The use of technology and data analytics has been particularly impactful. “He was able to record a bullpen and put it through a system, and it found, like, where I was inefficient at.”
With graduation looming, Brogan has already set his sights on the next chapter of his life. He will be attending Ohio Northern University to play baseball and study finance. “I’m excited. I’m going to Ohio Northern University to play baseball, and it just, it’s opened up a new chapter in my life,” Brogan shared. He is especially looking forward to the tight-knit community atmosphere that ONU offers, which he feels aligns closely with his positive experience at South Range.
The Brogan family name has become synonymous with excellence in diamond sports at South Range. Konnor’s sister, Kira, is making waves in softball, continuing the family legacy. Reflecting on his family’s influence, Brogan said, “It’s just my parents. My parents got us into sports early, and man, I’m happy they did. It’s been such a ride.”
As Brogan looks toward his remaining time in high school, his focus is clear. “I just want to be able to get on the mound and do my job. It’s been a great help this year to be able to, when I’m pitching, to just be comfortable and be able to know that I can complete the job and my team is there to help me.”
In his final message to the South Range community, Brogan highlighted the importance of support and resilience. “Baseball and softball is a game of ups and downs. If you have a bad game, it’s sure to come up with a good game, and your community will be here behind you.”
Konnor Brogan’s journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, community support, and strong leadership. As he prepares to take his talents to Ohio Northern University, the South Range community will surely remember his contributions on the mound and his efforts to uplift and support his teammates. With a bright future ahead, Brogan leaves behind a legacy of excellence, determination, and unwavering team spirit.
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