*Andrew Edwards is a member of Stevenson’s men’s club baseball team.*
He is a pitcher for the Stevenson baseball team and is living his lifelong passion for baseball. He came to Stevenson initially starting on the club team. After a successful freshman season at the club level, he made the much-deserved jump to the NCAA team where he would fulfill his dream of playing collegiate baseball.
Meet Zane Stone, second-year pitcher for the Stevenson baseball team.
Q: What was it like playing baseball growing up?
A: I feel like it’s been my entire life. Ever since I can remember, I’ve been playing baseball. It’s always been a huge part of my life, and I’ve related it to my real life in a lot of ways. Having my dad as my coach was great—he was always by my side, helping me along the way. I’m thankful for that, as well as for all my friends and coaches who have guided me.
Q: You came to Stevenson to play baseball. What was it like not being able to play varsity at first but starting with club baseball?
A: At first, I was kind of bummed out because my goal was to be on the top team. But even though I started in club, I was just happy to be playing sports in college. I was glad the club team gave me the opportunity to play. Playing club also made me realize how much I loved baseball. That really helped with my feelings toward not playing NCAA.
Q: Talk about your success in club baseball last year. How were you able to have a sub-1.00 ERA?
A: Honestly, I don’t even know how it happened. But I’m glad I had those numbers and that I was able to help the team go to the playoffs and regionals. Most importantly, I enjoyed playing with my teammates.
Q: How was the balance between fun and serious aspects of club baseball?
A: Growing up, middle school and high school baseball were always serious. Club was still serious, but I was able to have more fun with my friends while not having to worry as much about the seriousness of it all. They were always by my side.
Q: What was the jump to varsity like?
A: It’s been a big change. Club and varsity are two very different levels, but I’ve been able to adapt pretty well. It hasn’t been too much of a challenge, and the team has been doing well.
Q: What are the differences between club and NCAA baseball in terms of preparation, practice, and competition?
A: It’s very different. For NCAA, in the fall semester, we had 7 AM lifts three times a week. Our schedule was very strict—lifting, throwing, class, eating, everything was scheduled. I liked that structure, though. As a pitcher, I have a bit more freedom to do my own workouts and throw on my own schedule, but overall, varsity is much more regimented than club.
Q: How big of a jump is the competition level?
A: The players are better. In club, some guys play just for fun, but in D3, guys are really trying to make a name for themselves and push themselves to be great. Some might even want to move forward in the game. So it’s definitely been a change, but it’s going well so far.
Q: Talk about your season so far. Recently you had a good performance. What was it like finally getting to show your talents?
A: It started when my coach told me I’d be starting the game. My last two outings were in relief, and I prefer starting. When I got the call, I knew I was in good hands. I stuck to the game plan, made my pitches, and my teammates made plays behind me. It was a great day.
Q: How did your teammates respond to your strong performance?
A: They were really excited. My first couple of outings weren’t great, so for them to see me bounce back was great. They were all giving me high-fives and hyping me up. It felt good to finally show my teammates what I am capable of and show them how I can contribute to the team.
Q: Do you think Division III baseball should get more coverage?
A: Definitely. We face a lot of really good players, and Division III sports in general are underrated. People look down on it, but when you’re actually playing at this level, you realize the competition is tough. You realize the road to get here was just as tough. Many people don’t realize how much work we put in. I think Division III deserves more recognition.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to say—about yourself as a player or a person?
A: Making the jump has been a big change, not just in baseball but in my life. I just want to thank the people who have been with me—my friends and family. They’ve guided me and helped me become my best self, both on and off the field.
Stone’s journey from club baseball to the NCAA level is a testament to his dedication, perseverance and love for the game. While the transition has brought new challenges, he has embraced the structure, competition, and expectations that come with playing at the collegiate level. His recent success on the mound is just the beginning of what he hopes will be a strong career with Stevenson baseball.
