Central junior is ranked in state strikeouts

Junior Harrison Hoiekvam does a little bit of everything for the baseball team.   

“He is a utility player who plays infield, outfield and pitches,” head coach Gerald Kreber said.   

Hoiekvam is tied first in the state for strikeouts, with 68 and leads the team with a 1.92 earned run average. He is in his second season playing varsity and said he feels much more comfortable this year. 

“Last year I had to get used to varsity pitching and hitting, Hoiekvam said. “This year I have more experience and know what to expect.”   

Hoiekvam said he throws 80 miles per hour and his favorite pitches to throw are the fast ball, curve and switch up.  

“He has had incredible growth over the years,” Coach Kreber said. “He’s developed into a leader and is serious about the game.”   

Against South Sioux City,  Hoiekvam  struck out ten hitters, the second most in a single high school game this spring. Hoiekvam said he has had ten strike outs twice in his career, but the South Sioux City game was the first time he did it in four innings. 

“My first thought was I wish I could have reached my record of 11 strikeouts but, I am going to keep working hard and it will come in another game soon,” Hoiekvam said.  

“He has multiple commands he can throw multiple pitches for strikes,” Kreber said. “His velocity is high enough where if he makes a mistake, it doesn’t affect him much.

He has multiple commands he can throw multiple pitches for strikes. His velocity is high enough where if he makes a mistake, it doesn’t affect him much.  

— Coach Kreber

” 
 

Hoiekvam is planning on playing baseball in college and will go through the recruiting process this summer and offseason.  

“I’m not sure if I want to pitch or what position I will play in college,” Hoiekvam said. “It depends on what opportunities open up in the next year.”  

As far as senior season goes,  Hoiekvam is hoping to end the season with 60 win percentage and make it state.  

“I hope to be able to help my team in every part of the game next year,” Hoiekvam said. “Especially when it comes down to game deciding moments.”  

Coach Kreber said he is excited about Hoiekvam’s future. “He has a tone of potential and is looking for big things next year.” “He’s a great student athlete and represents the program well.”