The Penn Hills baseball program has faced numerous challenges over the years, but a recent appointment of a new coach brings hope for revitalization. Joe Capobianco Jr., a 1996 alumnus, has taken on the responsibility of leading the Indians' varsity team. With a declining record and no playoff appearances since 2010, Capobianco aims to rebuild the program from the ground up, focusing on community engagement and player development.

Returning Home to Make a Difference

Capobianco's deep connection to Penn Hills drives his commitment to turning around the baseball program. He recognizes the need for immediate action to prevent further decline and is determined to lead by example. Despite the challenges, he believes in making a significant impact through consistent effort and strategic planning.

Over the past two seasons, the team has struggled with a 5-28 record, losing all section games. Recognizing that the issues have roots deeper than just recent performance, Capobianco emphasizes rebuilding the foundation of the program. His previous experience as an assistant coach at Freeport and earlier coaching at Penn Hills for 11 years provides valuable insights into what needs to change. Capobianco’s approach involves fostering a culture of dedication and perseverance. He has already begun organizing regular workouts at the Fralic Center, which have seen increasing participation from players. This initiative aims to build both physical and mental strength within the team. By engaging more students and encouraging continuous improvement, Capobianco hopes to create a sustainable model for success. He understands that this journey will take time and patience but remains optimistic about the future.

Focusing on Long-Term Growth and Community Involvement

Capobianco's vision extends beyond immediate wins and losses. He is committed to addressing the underlying factors contributing to the program's struggles, such as the lack of a middle school program and high costs associated with playing baseball. To bridge these gaps, he advocates for smarter strategies and community support.

To foster long-term growth, Capobianco envisions establishing a middle school baseball program, which could help retain young players who might otherwise drop out around age 12 or 13. He acknowledges that baseball's popularity has waned and that financial barriers can be prohibitive. Therefore, he stresses the importance of being resourceful and finding ways to make the sport accessible to more students. Capobianco also leverages social media to promote the program and engage with the broader community. His efforts have already shown positive results, with increased interest and participation in team activities. By focusing on daily improvements and ensuring players understand the fundamentals, Capobianco aims to cultivate a strong, resilient team ready to face future challenges head-on.