Newcastle High School senior Kaden Longman has spent most of his life picturing the moment he could represent the Racers on the varsity baseball field. Now, after 14 years in the game, Longman is finishing that journey with pride, perspective and plans for what comes next.
“Representing Newcastle is special to me because I have been going to this school since I was four years old,” Longman said. “I always dreamed of putting the N on the side of my helmet and across my jersey.”
That sense of connection shapes the way Longman sees his team. For him, Newcastle baseball is not just about wins and losses. It is about trust, accountability and the bond built through long practices and shared pressure.
“I love that we are close like brothers and can lean on each other at any situation,” he said.
Longman brings a broad athletic background to the diamond. In addition to baseball, he played football this past year and earned All-State honors as a wide receiver. The experience added another layer to his competitiveness and helped sharpen the confidence he believes is one of his greatest assets.
“I think my biggest strength is the confidence in which I play the game with,” Longman said. “I am working on improving my consistency.”
Longman also credits his family, especially his mother, for keeping him grounded through every success and setback.
“My mom inspires me because no matter what I do or the outcome of anything, she is by my side and my biggest supporter always,” he said.
As he looks ahead, Longman already has a clear vision. He plans to continue his baseball career at Hutchinson Community College, where he will also study sports management.
“I plan to play baseball and major in sports management at Hutchinson Community College,” he said.
Longman said one of the athletes who left the biggest impression on him was Jackson Schanuel, who showed him “what it’s like to be great.” For a player who has spent years chasing improvement, that example still matters.
Longman’s story is rooted in loyalty to his school, belief in his teammates and confidence in his future — the same qualities that have defined his final season in a Newcastle uniform.
