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Web posted
Friday, June 20, 2008
Zadorozny opts for a life of ball
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Courtesy Photo
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By MATT PARCHER
Sports Editor
sports@arkcity.net
Mark Zadorozny of Cedar Vale, Kan. has been involved in baseball for a long time, dating back to his fourth grade year when he played rec. ball in Woodward, Okla. where his family lived.
When he was in the eighth grade his family moved to Cedar Vale and he played baseball there until he graduated, competing in the state tournament his freshman and junior years.
He was primarily a pitcher and third baseman but occasionally played first base when needed. The majority of his pitching was in relief and his competitive attitude helped him succeed.
"Mark has always been a student of the game," his father, Allen said. "He never had a real fast fastball so he was able to learn to pitch with sliders, curves and change-ups. He's a diligent and competitive person and has always been good at doing what it takes to get the job done."
Upon graduation, Mark attended Coffeyville Community College, where he pitched in five games his second year -- he was red-shirted the first -- and posted a record of 1-0.
The next year he moved on to Midland Lutheran College in Fremont, Neb. and compiled a perfect 4-0 record and posted one save in 16 games. While at Midland, his team won the Great Plains Athletic Conference and appeared in the NAIA regional finals.
The following two seasons, Mark played at Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva, Okla. along with two Arkansas City players, Tyson Kendrick and Brandon Walker and earned a record of 4-5 while appearing in 26 games.
His overall college record was 9-5 in 47 appearances.
Mark is currently in the graduate program at NWOSU where he is pursuing his master's degree in education.
He is on the right track as far as careers are concerned as he coaches Alva's American Legion team and will act as a graduate assistant on NWOSU's baseball team next year.
In the future he hopes to be a history or p.e. teacher, as well as a baseball coach.
"I've always had an interest in being a coach," Zadorozny said.
He feels that it's a rewarding position, although tough at times, watching from his seat in the dugout instead of on the field.
"I'd say the most rewarding aspect of coaching is seeing a kid do something I told him to do on the field and have him become a better ball player because of it," Zadorozny said.
His father also feels like coaching is a good fit for him and hopes he continues to coach in the future.
"I'd like to think that he would have success helping other young men become good citizens and good ball players," Allen said.
Mark will be bringing his Legion team to Winfield today and will be taking on the Black Diamonds in Ark City on July 18.
Above: Mark Zadorozny
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