George Lund is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Scottsdale Prep for AZPreps365.com

Some people are distinguished not just by their abilities but also by their commitment to winning and leadership.

Head Coach David Primavera is one such person in Scottsdale who towers above the rest of the baseball field. Beginning his eighth season as head coach of Scottsdale Preparatory Academy baseball, Primavera's influence extends well beyond the team's success or failure, influencing the team's culture.

Primavera led the team to a 19-7 record and the 2A state championship last season; he calls this his favorite coaching memory. It makes sense, as the so-called comeback kids were constantly written off; they started the tournament as the 8-seed and a large reason for the win was Primavera's true leadership. 

Primavera is in his eighth year as head coach and has numerous hats to wear. In addition to managing the baseball club's victories, he is the head coach of the football team and provides guidance and direction for both groups.

 "I grew up around sports and always wanted to be a coach," he says, looking back on his path. "I enjoyed being in the game and coaching. Since I was obviously not talented enough to play, I just wanted to be involved in some manner."

His approach to coaching goes beyond the Xs and Os; it involves giving his players a feeling of accountability and ownership. Being able to instill confidence in his players and make them take responsibility for the accomplishments of others gives them greater motivation to work harder and foster a culture that is focused on the team. 

The way that Primavera views coaching is  more than just teaching players how to play a game; it's about sharing the thrill of competition with them. According to Primavera, one of the things that motivates him as a coach is the competition. As a coach, there is no greater incentive to keep improving than accomplishing your objective—in this case, winning the state title last year.

One of Scottsdale Prep's key players, junior infielder Cade Zawada, is all praise for Primavera's impact. Zawada says, "He is really good with game management." "He is aware of the players' optimal playing locations. While many players at this level lack experience, he excels at bringing the young players up to speed."

As one of the few remaining players from the championship squad from the previous season—which now only has three starters back—Zawada further emphasizes how crucial the experience of those who have led the team in the past will be to the development of its younger players.

Sehaj Malhi, a junior infielder and pitcher, who’s been able to step up for the Spartans so far this season, emphasized the necessity for good leadership and the hole created by graduating seniors. 

"I think a lot of it is that we don’t have seniors this year," Malhi says with a laugh. "Our seniors, particularly this man named Nate Cameron, had a major impact last year. Since we no longer have that, coaches will need to take on a significant leadership role. In my opinion, coaches have all compensated for the loss of seniors."

Primavera's accomplishments are well-known, and his support of Scottsdale Prep football and baseball makes him an essential component of the school's sports program and the growth of its young men as individuals as well as players. 

One thing is certain as the Spartans baseball plots its route for the upcoming season: under Primavera's direction, they are competing not just for the chance to win but also for their love of the game and the lasting leadership legacy he represents.