62°F
weather icon Partly Cloudy

BCHS pitcher signs to play at Oregon university

Boulder City pitcher and shortstop senior Steve Wagner grew up always wanting to be an Eagle.

Idolizing the culture that surrounded Boulder City athletics at a young age, Wagner pined for an opportunity to be an Eagle. Making life-long friends as a child, Wagner, who was a key prospect for the Foothill High School baseball program, knew the only place for him to succeed and be comfortable was in a small-town setting. The very moment his chance arose, he made sure he seized the opportunity.

"I've always wanted to be an Eagle," Wagner said. "Everything that surrounds this town, this school, it intrigues me. I love that atmosphere here, the school spirit that our small town has. I wanted to begin my prep career here, but couldn't because of the travel issues. Having other siblings made it impossible for my parents to take me every day, but once I got my license it was a no-brainer. Being an Eagle was a choice I made when I was in middle school; it's honestly the best decision I've ever made."

Getting a full-time taste for the small-town feel last year, Wagner's love for the city grew even stronger. As a member of the baseball program, Wagner felt part of a family, he felt wanted. So when it came time to make what he called the second most important decision in his life, attending Boulder City High School being the first, Wagner decided to follow his heart, sticking to his admiration for scenery.

When the opportunity arose to attend Division II baseball power Western Oregon University, Wagner knew the next chapter of his life would be spent as a Wolf.

Monmouth, Ore., is a lot like Boulder City. Its population currently sits just below 10,000 citizens and is the type of small quiet town Wagner admires.

"Location was key for me," Wagner said. "I loved how Monmouth was isolated from everything, yet still close enough to enter the city. It's a lot like Boulder City in that regard. I felt at home when I took my visit, I felt like I was back here with my teammates. The atmosphere was very family oriented, the players made me feel welcomed and the coaching staff treated me very well. I can't wait to go there next season."

Coming into his senior season viewed as the top pitching prospect in the Division I-A Sunrise division, Wagner is a solid find for the Wolves' program, which has won 14 consecutive Great Northwest Athletic Conference championships.

"We are very proud and happy for Steve," Boulder City baseball coach Bobby Reese said. "He was a very big part of our success last season. He was one of our top pitchers and when not pitching, he played a very good short stop for us. This upcoming year, I expect him to do even better than last year. With a year of growth and added strength, he should be one of the top pitchers in our division."

Set to attend Western Oregon as a pitcher only next season, Wagner brings a strong prep pedigree with him after leading the Eagles in every pitching statistic last spring.

"Steve's incredible on the mound," fellow pitcher senior Peyton Koopman said. "He's the ace of the staff and a pitcher we can rely on to win us the big game. His work ethic is phenomenal; all he does is work harder to get better. He's going to be one of our key pieces this season, when we attempt to make it back to state."

Compiling a 5-2 record on the mound last season as the team's workhorse for the state-tournament-bound Eagles, Wagner led the team with a 2.10 ERA and 35 strikeouts in 40 innings of work. As opposing Division I-A programs started to take notice of the Eagles' new star, Wagner's teammates themselves found themselves excited about the new transfer.

"Steve transferring in from Foothill last season was huge for us," outfielder senior Zach Murphy said.. "Steve's addition made us better on both sides of the ball instantly. On the mound, he's arguably our best pitcher, while he provides good work in the infield as well. He's an exceptional talent. It's good to know we have him on our team now."

A key two-way player during the Eagles' 24-13 season, Wagner batted .294 with 19 RBIs and a pair of doubles as a part-time shortstop as well for the program and will continue to do so this season.

"I'm all about the team," Wagner concluded. "While I'll only pitch at Western Oregon, my main focus for this season is helping our team out in any way possible. These guys are my family, whatever they need me to do in order to reach our goal of a championship, I'm ready.

Contact Robert Vendettoli at BCRsports@gmail.com.

Don't miss the big stories. Like us on Facebook.
THE LATEST
BCHS wins four straight on diamond

Getting to .500 on the season with a 4-4 record, Boulder City High School baseball has rallied for four consecutive wins, defeating Mater East and earning a forfeit victory over Mojave in this week’s slate.

School, city to come together for cancer patient

A community will come together on April 2 at Boulder City High School in support of 5-year old Henry Sorenson, who is currently battling Ewing’s sarcoma, a bone cancer in his left leg.

Eagles unbeaten in league play

Remaining perfect in 3A play, Boulder City High School boys volleyball defeated Western, Coral Academy and Canyon Springs during this week’s slate.

Sports Roundup: Softball squad picks up pair of victories

On a roll, Boulder City High School softball won a pair of games this past week, defeating rival Moapa Valley on March 20 and Western on March 25.

Trio of Eagles receive state honors

Honored for their achievements, a trio of Boulder City High School star athletes were named to the All-Southern Nevada team, highlighting the top athletes in the state regardless of classification.

BCHS wins two straight on the diamond

Bringing life back into the program, Boulder City High School baseball has put together a two-game winning streak after a disappointing 0-4 start.

Volleyball squad picks up impressive win

In what felt like a playoff atmosphere, Boulder City High School boys volleyball picked up their best victory to date, routing 5A Foothill.

Lady Eagles win sixth straight

Boulder City High School softball is currently riding a six-game winning streak as they added a trio of wins to their season total this past week.

Lady Eagles dominant so far in softball

Currently riding a three-game winning streak, Boulder City High School softball is on a roll, having not allowed a run yet in 3A play.

Oeland signs dotted line to play soccer

Boulder City High School girls soccer star Natasha Oeland will continue her journey at the next level, signing to play at local junior college College of Southern Nevada.