Rob Coe is flat out the most talented catcher in the WIAC this season. The junior out of Appleton North High School leads the Warhawks in hitting with a .403 average along with three home runs and 34 RBI. Coe is also the top defensive catcher in the conference.
Want proof? Whitewater has stolen 99 of 125 bases this year. Opponents have stolen just nine bases in 18 attempts! UW-W pitchers have done an excellent job in holding runners but just 18 attempts on the season? It is quite obvious that opposing teams have plenty of respect for Coe’s arm.
Warhawk head coach John Vodenlich knows a thing or two on what it takes to be a top-rate catcher. The Hawk “skipper” played catcher during his Warhawk baseball career (1989-92). By the time he finished he had become the baseball program’s first two-time All-American.
In the Warhawks three appearances in the NCAA Division III “World Series” Whitewater has featured outstanding catchers. In 2004 and 2005 it was Aaron Guilbault. Billy Johnson was behind the plate in 2008.
“Rob is calling more and more of the games for himself which is a great asset to have,” Vodenlich tells Voices Eye on Baseball. Defensively he has blocked the ball well and features an outstanding arm along with having a great stick.”
Although he is just a junior, Rob brings plenty of leadership both on and off the field.
“I just go out there and do anything I can to help the team win,” Coe said following a recent game. “I’m just going out there and try to help everyone improve. I work hard with our pitchers in hitting their spots. Its all about doing what you can do so that we can keep winning.”
Coe was a 1st Team All-WIAC selection as a sophomore last year and according to Coach Vodenlich has continued to improve.
“I don’t remember a great team that didn’t have a great catcher,” Vodenlich said. “I like to think that he really has the makings of being great.
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