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For the next two weeks we will roll out our Preseason Power 25. Three staff members voted on their version of the thirty best teams in the Preseason Power 25, with a possibility of 90 total vote points for each team. We will release three teams per day for the first week and then move to two teams per day once we reach the Top 10 next week. Voting for preseason teams centers more around the depth of talent on that team, as well as where it stacks up within their region/area, as opposed to strictly predicting schedule outcomes. 

Generally, larger schools and classifications have a greater depth of player talent on roster. However, once the season begins and records begin to take shape, the Power 25 will be adjusted as needed. In addition to that, we will debut our Private School Top 10 around April 1st and Small School Top 10 around mid-April. 

Coming in at #17 are the Hickory Hawks. The 757 historical power makes their way into the initial rankings after a strong 2023 season and with plenty of returning talent, they are set up for a succesful 2024.

#17 Hickory   

Looking for a new face to upset the VHSL 5A, Region A hierarchy? Look no further than the Hickory Hawks. The history rich Hawks bring experience, mound depth, and some offensive versatility. Brayden Bachman (ECU) is one of the best hitters in the 757 and while he gets worked around at times, he should be surrounded by experienced players that give the offense a chance to produce runs. Jake Chadwell (Longwood) and Andrew Vinarov (Virginia Wesleyan) should help Bachman with run production, while Eli Kraft should be the table setter and spark plug at the top. If they are missing anything, it may be depth behind the top half of the order. On the mound, Ryan Barks, Tommy Blackburn, and Ryan Kennedy give a trio of experienced arms with the stuff to limit opposing offenses, especially when it comes to big innings. An underclassman to know is Jake Cozart. We are unclear as to how much the 6-3 left hander will contribute, if any at all, but the talent is easy to see and he is a name to know for the long term.

Final Thoughts: 

"The Hawks had a really good 2023 campaign. They ran off eleven straight wins before they lost to the eventual state champs in the regional semi's. They are in a tough region, but they may have the most offensive depth of the region and if guys like Barks and Blackburn can lead the way on the mound, the Hawks have a chance to make the leap back into the state tournament."

- Jason Burton (Virginia/DC Scouting Director)