By Matt Browning

Clay Center’s Carter Long was a prolific hitter last season. He hit .509 with three home runs and 12 runs batted in. He was a first team all-league and second team all-state selection.

But Long wants to make his offensive abilities even more extensive.

“I have been hitting in the local batting cage with friends and teammates,” Long said. “I want to improve on hitting opposite field. I have been focusing on that in the batting cage.”

The Tigers have made the state tournament three straight seasons and with a familiar group back this season, Long wants to make it a fourth appearance.

“I am excited for another great season with teammates I’ve grown up playing with,” Long said. “As well as making another trip to the state tournament.”

As well as going back to state, Long has other goals he wants to accomplish in senior season.

“My goals are to receive all league and all-state honors,” Long said. “My goals for the team are to return to the state tournament for the fourth year in a row and to win state. As well as winning the NCKL.”