Spring is here, although you may not be able to tell by the snow banks on the ground.  However, that has not stopped the UMPI Men's Baseball team from starting their season.  They have been playing games since March but they've only been able to play away games, given that the UMPI ball field is still covered with snow.

Practices have been held indoors in Wieden Gym.  They've had games so far in Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts.  Two home games are scheduled for the end of April, but the team already has been scouting for an alternate location to play.

David DeKay, an UMPI Junior, is co-captain this year, along with UMPI Senior, Shane Dupuis. This is DeKay's second year on the team.  He transferred from the Midwest.  It has been a big change for him playing baseball in northern Maine.  He is a pitcher as well as a utility player (can play any position as needed). Prior to attending UMPI DeKay had only held the position of pitcher, so he likes the chance to play different positions.

            DeKay wishes they could play more games in Presque Isle, so the students could see them play. He wants potential players to see that the team does a good job.  It is tough for them to practice in the gym, as it is very small. Due to the snow, they don't have the opportunities other schools do to practice on a real field, which can be a disadvantage.

            "We do take it seriously," DeKay explained.  "And we win games."

They have a young team this year.   DeKay says they've surprised the coach with how well they could play.

 "This year is our rebuilding year," DeKay said. 

This year their season is only March to May.  Next years season will run from February to May, with practices held in the fall. Some of the players play during the summer for teams in other states.  DeKay plans to go to Massachusetts for the summer.

            Next year the team hopes to have more players. It helps to have more people than needed, because when you play two games in a day, it takes pressure off the main players. According to DeKay, there are students who would do a great job, but don't come out for the team.