Jim Walker
jim.walker@irontontribune.com

PROCTORVILLE — After several subpar years including a 3-18 record last season, the Fairland Dragons’ baseball team faces an uphill battle next year.
And there’s no better way to take on the battle than with a hill to lead you. In this case, it will be former Fairland and college pitcher Michael Hill.
The key to some of the most successful seasons in Fairland history both as a pitcher and hitter, Hill has been named the new Dragons’ baseball coach.
“We have a young crew of pitchers at Fairland in Reilly Sowards, Garrett Looney and Gavin Hunt,” said Hill who is a special education teacher at Fairland Middle School and was a volunteer assistant to former Fairland head baseball coaches Roger Snyder and Bryan Ward.
“All three of these pitchers have a great upside and I look forward to working with them. We have several returning freshmen and sophomores who played several innings last year. Those players will be looked upon to be the leaders and to get the ball rolling.”
During his four-year career with the Dragons, Hill posted a 25-9 record with a 1.55 earned run average.
He struck out 358 batters in only 206 innings as Fairland won four straight Ohio Valley Conference titles along with two district titles.
Hill signed with East Carolina where he played for one season, then transferred to Big East Conference member Cincinnati where he was 11-6 as a starting pitcher.
Hill pitched in the Big East championship game against South Florida in 2008 and hurled a complete-game win.
During his tenure with the Bearcats, Hill had 124 strikeouts in 135 innings and was the Big East Pitcher of the Week for May 11, 2008 due in part to his 10 strikeouts win over Seton Hall. He retired 23 straight batters against Seton Hall and West Virginia.
Fairland athletic director Jeff Gorby was very pleased to have Hill take the reins of the baseball program.
“I had the opportunity to coach Michael in both football and basketball during his time at Fairland. I also attended several baseball games during that time. He was a gifted athlete who handled himself in a very professions manner both on and off the field of play,” said Gorby.
“When this job came open in May, he was the first person I approached about taking over the program. I am excited to have Michael in this position and look forward to a great working relationship and many wins from him and his staff.”