Maps

Covina , CA — Former Lancer and current San Francisco Giants prospect Joey Dyche came out to work with the Western Christian High School outfielders this week. Dyche is currently playing for the Giants Single A affiliate the Salem-Kaiser Volcanoes where he hit leadoff and started in centerfield. He attended Western all four years in high school (Class of 2000) and played short stop for the Lancers. Dyche exclaimed, "It is fun to give back to the program and show the kids what they can achieve if they work hard on what they are being taught."

The outfielders were given instruction on proper first step, fly ball, and tracking techniques. Freshman Robert Wiley said, "It was awesome having him out there with us. I never knew how much went into the playing the outfield." Dyche spoke with players and then drilled them on the described techniques for about 45 minutes. His vast knowledge and experience were evident in his instruction. Senior Charles Rangel stated, "He knows so much. It was fun because he was like one of the guys, but much smarter. I learned a ton in such short period of time."

Head coach Mark Gabbard coached Dyche at both the high school and junior college level. He describes, "Joey was always an amazing athlete, but really came into his own as a baseball player in college. What another amazing experience for our baseball athletes. It is nice to be able to expose them to top instruction from top coaches and players and we are only in the second month of fall." Gabbard goes on further to state, "I believesome of the players are really relishing this opportunity and understand that not many high school athletes have access to these types of resources."

Joey Dyche expressed that he wanted to get out a few more times before he leaves for spring training in March. "I talk to coach Gabbard all of the time so I am sure I will have a chance to get back out here." He leaves this Sunday to go back to Lewiston , ID to train at his Alma Mater Lewis and Clark State where he broke the single season batting average record last year going 101 for 202 to finish with an even .500 for the year. He will head the advice from legendary college coach Ed Cheff who has produced 13 National Championships and numerous big league ball players.

October 20,2005