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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. Since we released 25-11 last week, this week we will reveal two teams per day until we get through the complete Power 25 on Friday. 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 the #9 spot are the Bishop O'Connell Knights. O'Connell has as much talent on both sides of the ball as they have had in quite some time. See the full preview below.

#9 Bishop O’Connell   

Bishop O’Connell has what might be the best middle infield duo in the VA/DC area, with Michael Powell (Penn) and Noah Haught (Richmond) anchoring it up the middle. Joining those two committed middle infielders are returners Andy Fronczek (William & Mary), Mark Sirianni, and Peyton Kijek (Patrick Henry CC). After making some contributions in ‘23, Jack Woda is back and will have a chance to be a big piece of the puzzle behind the plate. Two new positional faces that could be a part of a push in the WCAC/VISAA title chase are Aidan Kim and Kamari Chisolm. On the mound the Knights have a deep and talented staff.  AJ Murray (Bucknell) could be a premier arm on the staff, but Jack Rampy and new face Shota Fogus will provide some high quality depth for O’Connell. Another arm that could make a big leap this season is Noah Haught. His stuff is high end, but he hasn't thrown many varsity innings so we will see where he fits in the rotation. Watch for O’Connell to be the potential sleeper in both private divisions they are a part of.

Final Thoughts:

"In the past couple of years the Knights have had pretty talented rosters, but have not sealed the deal when it came playoff time. This year could be the year. They have one of the best middle infields in the state, a deep pitching staff that has the ability to shut down opposing offenses, and some depth in the lineup. Kanakos was a leader behind the plate, but his graduation could leave a void. The Knights have some underclass options there and there is a good chance they turn to Jack Woda. If he can handle the staff and bring some offensive production, this team could be the sleeper in VISAA Division I and WCAC."

- Jason Burton (Virginia/DC Scouting Director)