Andrew Pina: A former Lark returns to the diamond

by Ryan Miles – Sports Editor

Andrew Pina, a 2012 Hesston alumnus, returned this year to the diamond where he started his college baseball career.

Now coaching for the team he once led in hitting for the 2012 season, Pina looks to lead the team in other ways. Rob Ramseyer, Hesston College’s head baseball coach, brought Pina back to coach outfield and hitting.

“I always knew I wanted to come back to Hesston to help the baseball program,” Pina said.

Pina said he’ll absorb as much coaching knowledge as he can from his former coach all while helping the team reach its top potential. He’s planning on taking what he learns at the college level down to coaching high school kids.

But for now he’s enjoying being back on the campus where he’s made so many memories.

“It’s weird being back on campus and not having to worry about classes and other things outside of baseball, but I’m really enjoying how friendly everyone is,” he said. “It’s just like I remember.”

As happy as Pina is to be back, the team is loving having him around on and off the field. He is not too far removed from playing the game himself, so the players seem to really connect with him well.

“Coach has a lot to bring to the team in terms of teaching and developing us as ball players, but he’s also a great role model for us to look up to off the field,” sophomore Jesse Norrid said.

As for Pina’s future beyond this year, he plans on pursuing a degree emphasizing special education and history and hopes to become a high school teacher and coach.