MHS Dragon baseball got off to an exciting start last week as it officially opened the season on the new home field.  Part of the deal that brought the new Malad Elementary School building to fruition, the baseball and softball complex south of Malad High School is a remarkable asset to the community and a showpiece of a field.

“Today marks the official opening of our brand new ball field here at Malad High School,” Athletic Director Ty Price said.  “This field represents more than just dirt, grass, and fences—it represents opportunity, pride, hard work, and the future of Dragon baseball.”

Price thanked the school board members who had been a part of the process throughout several years (Brent Evanson, Brandon Ward, Chalae Teeples, Tresie Carter, Shane Howard, and Jared Crowther), as well as the District administration (Former superintendent Jon Abrams, current Superintendent Dallan Rupp, Principal Robert Hannah, and former AD Josh Smith), as well as the coaches, athletes, community members, supporters, contractors, builders and donors who had made the field possible.  “This field exists because of the commitment and belief this community has in providing great opportunities for our students,” Price said.

Following those remarks, the school board members, district officials, and past MHS players and coaches were invited to the mound for the official ribbon cutting.  

A ceremonial first pitch was thrown out by Dennis Evans.

As Price explained, “In 2003, Steve Harrison approached Dennis Evans with a dream of bringing baseball back to Malad High School.  Dennis, who had played for Malad years earlier, immediately supported the idea.  Together, they began gathering others who shared the same love of the game.  The first coaching staff consisted of Dennis Evans, Bobby Green, Bob Hannah, and Martin Pope.  They were happy to step up and help make the dream a reality.  For nearly ten years before baseball became school sanctioned, everything was donated.  The program was completely run by volunteers.  Coaches gave their time freely, community members prepared the field, drove the busses, and helped provide uniforms.  Equipment was purchased through donations, and the team held fundraisers just to cover travel costs.  Despite the challenges, the program thrived.  During the 12 years these coaches led the team, Malad made it to the state tournament every year except their first season.  Their dedication paid off when Malad High School won its first State Championship in 2011, followed by another in 2012 – an incredible achievement built on the passion, generosity, and hard work of this community.  Coach Evans retired in 2015, leaving behind a strong foundation for the program he helped rebuild.  Over the next 11 years, Malad High School baseball has continued to build on that legacy, capturing multiple district championships and adding two more State Championships to the program’s history.  What began as a dream supported by volunteers has grown into a proud tradition of success.  The dedication of those early coaches, players, and community members helped create a program that continues to thrive and represent Malad with pride both on and off the field.  We would like to thank all of the people standing on the field today who helped make MHS baseball the success it is.  Without their time, effort, and belief in this program, this dream would never have become a reality. 

It is my honor to now invite Former Head Coach Dennis Evans to the mound.  Bringing him the gameball is his grandson and current player.  Catching the first pitch will be his other grandson and current player.  

Ladies and gentlemen…the first pitch on the new Malad High School baseball field!”