GRAVETTE -- One of the first things Randall Hunt did when he took over Gravette's baseball team was beef up the schedule.

The Lions have taken on bigger schools and won their fair share, already claiming wins over Class 6A Greenwood and Class 7A Springdale High. That has brought on a new sense of confidence this season that might have been missing in years past.

"We needed to find out how we stood against the bigger schools and see where we are," said Hunt, who was an assistant coach last year. "There are still some things that we need to clean up, but I'm really pleased with how we came out of the gate this year."

The biggest change Hunt has witnessed from his players is commitment to preparation, especially with limited practice time. He has instilled a precise practice plan and seen his players carry that out.

Gravette has enjoyed good leadership out of its seniors. Ethan Vanderpool has been "rock solid" on the mound, including last Tuesday's shutout victory over Stilwell, Okla., in a game played at Arvest Ballpark in Springdale.

Aaron Means has been a versatile player, playing both the infield and outfield as well as throwing a no-hitter against Greenwood. Hunt also likes what he has seen from second baseman Wyatt Gibbons, as well as first baseman Austin Daniels and junior shortstop Cody Fields.

"I've seen more productive practices, and I've told the guys it's how they handle themselves," Hunt said. "They've done a great job of believing in that, and they believe in it. They go out there, and they never give up."

DECATUR SOCCER

Mendoza posts hat trick

Sophomore Toni Mendoza recorded a hat trick last Tuesday when Decatur posted a 5-0 win over Gentry in a boys soccer match.

"Mendoza is a very good player," Decatur first-year coach Barry James said. "He is a very good ball handler, and he made quite a few individual runs against Gentry. He is not afraid to take on the defense."

James also said that Ociel Garcia, Carlos Ocampo, Antonio Rosales, Hector Aguilar and Victor Urquidi have all been providing key contributions to the Bulldogs. Aguilar and Rosales also added goals for Decatur in the shutout win over the Pioneers.

Decatur doesn't have a girls' soccer team, but Ashley Pudas and Sarah Harris are both on the Bulldogs roster.

Decatur travels to Dardanelle on Friday and returns home March 31 when Eureka Springs visits.