Coach Steve Barrington and his West Lincoln baseball team experienced a magical year in 2014. After joining the Region 2A ranks, the Bears made an impressive run during the season and in the MHSAA Class 2A State playoffs.

Barrington and his team fought through a tough division and clawed their way in the playoffs advancing to the third round of the MHSAA State Baseball tournament. West Lincoln ended up losing the best-of-three series to eventual state 2A champions Taylorsville.

For this accomplishment, Barrington has earned The DAILY LEADER’s All-County Coach of the Year for 2014.

“It is a great honor to be mentioned alongside the other coaches that received this honor in the years past,” said Barrington. “But, I know that without my players working hard and doing what was asked of them this awards would not be here for me. It is all about them working hard.”

Barrington presented his thoughts on his team’s magical season.

“We had a great year if not the best season ever,” he said. “Our seniors and the whole team bought into our philosophy, and it showed in the field. Without the guys’ hard work, this season would not have a success.”

Barrington had five seniors on his squad that played a huge part in West Lincoln’s march in the playoffs: pitcher/infielder Tanner Boutwell, outfielder Chase Buckles, first baseman Tyler Moak, infielder/pitcher Jeremy Burns and pitcher/catcher Brady Wilson.

Also in the starting lineup most of the time were left fielder Ty Foreman, shortstop Bryce Temple, center fielder Alex Neal, second baseman Austin Burris and designated hitter Lofton Sills.

Other members on the Bears team were Nathanael Addison, Treston Roberts, Brady Thompson, Turner Pyles, Bransen Ainsworth, Seth Bivens, Charles Wayne Smith, Daniel Spears and Hunter Maxwell.

The team posted a 19-8 record and accounted for 25 home runs.

Barrington, 32, started his baseball-coaching career as the head coach at West Lincoln in 2006. Barrington worked endless hours to help build the Bears baseball program. During the baseball offseason, Barrington helped out with the football program as an assistant offensive coach.

As a teacher, Barrington teaches ninth and twelfth grade social studies.

Barrington shared his thought on the community support at West Lincoln.

“You can not asked for better support,” stated Barrington. “Parents, administrators and community. Someone is always around to help in any possible way. The community is what makes West Lincoln a special place to coach at and be associated with.”

Barrington is married to former West Lincoln graduate Laura Peavey. They have one son, named Carson, who is three years old. They live in the Lincoln County community.