Kennedy's Hoyer still has same passion for baseball

CEDAR RAPIDS – Nearly 25 years after becoming a head baseball coach, Bret Hoyer still has the same passion for the sport, competition and his players.“I can't wait to get rolling,” Hoyer said. “We have better weather to get outside."When Hoyer begins his 22nd season at the Cedar Rapids Kennedy baseball helm, he will have a new distinction to go along with conference and state championship coach. Hoyer will open the season in May as Hall of Famer, being one of five inductees to the Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in January.Hoyer joined the elite group along with former Decorah player Lon Olejniczak, Dick Smith, Ed Sawvell, a player and coach at Wilton, and Roger Barr.The 48-year-old skipper coached at his alma mater, Iowa City Regina, before taking over the Cougars program in 1993. He has guided Kennedy to 11 of its 14 overall state tournament appearances, including the 2010 Class 4A state title and runner-up finishes in 2002 and 2006.“It was pretty humbling to realize you've been chosen to join that fraternity and chosen by former Hall of Fame members,” Hoyer said. “It is really humbling being listed with some of those coaching legends you've always looked up to and admired.”Hoyer, an All-Iowa Conference outfielder for Wartburg in 1987, never anticipated honors or recognition when he began his coaching career. The love of the game, the people involved and impacting young athletes was always the motivation. He has done it well.“You love the game and you love to compete,” Hoyer said. “The initial draw is the relationships you build with the guys you coach with and against, but even more than all that is the relationships you develop with your players is what sustains you.”Hoyer cherishes those relationships that extend beyond player and coach. He has been asked to read at weddings of his former players.The success of those bonds and friendships were proven when he was honored for his success on the diamond. He was supported by Kennedy assistants, former players and parents, as well as former Regina coaches and players. Hoyer was touched by the emails, texts and social media messages when news of the award became public.“It was pretty neat to see,” Hoyer said. “Those relationships are built and maintained, being a part of their lives going forward, are more important than the award itself.”Hoyer has eclipsed the 600-win plateau and ranks among the state's all-time leaders with 12 state tournament appearances. He was third before last season, trailing only Gene Schultz of Lansing Kee and Dyersville Beckman's Tom Jenk Jr. Identifying a favorite moment or highlight above others is difficult.“You remember those teams that played exceptionally well in July, especially those teams that overachieved, so to speak, and exceed expectations,” Hoyer said. “Overall, it's just the bond you build with the players and carry those forward."Hoyer is excited for the upcoming season. He will get the chance to forge more relationships and tally more wins. Hoyer will do it with the same approach.“It's another group of kids and another opportunity to build some relationships that will hopefully last long beyond the years they play for me,” Hoyer said. “We'll see what we can do. You still like to compete.”