Orange Lutheran senior Evan Wiley began playing Little League at just six years old. Nearly 12 years later, it's the bond with his teammates that fuels his passion for the game.
 
"Now more than ever, especially in high school, it's the camaraderie of it and the brotherhood," says Wiley of baseball. "It's all the bonds that I get to have with all the guys. It's really important to me."
 
Wiley has been behind the plate from the start, drawn to the catcher position for its challenges and the leadership it demands. While he doesn't consider himself a vocal leader, the 17-year old takes the opportunity to lead by example.
 
"I like to do the right thing and have people follow what I do," says Wiley. "I know that people look up to me in the position that I'm in, so if I'm doing stuff right, all the younger guys will hopefully follow."
 
Wiley's goal for the team this season is to lean into the brotherhood with the belief that their bonds will help them achieve their postseason goals.
 
"Evan Wiley is a selfless leader, unwavering teammate and a person who exemplifies Christian character," says OLu baseball head coach RJ Farrell. "He embodies the true spirit of what it means to be a Lancer, setting the standard in all that he does. His impact on this program is immeasurable. I know the Lord has an amazing journey laid out for him."
 
Wiley was part of the 2024 squad that captured the CIF State Regional title last spring, the first in school history. He takes pride in representing the Lancers on the diamond, knowing the national spotlight that is on OLu's baseball program. He is also grateful for the program's strong emphasis on faith.
 
"It's a really big part of what we do here," says Wiley. "We represent, we wear the cross on the back of all of our jerseys and our hats. I think it's pretty cool that we get to do that and we get to bring him onto the field with us. It's important that we do that because he wants to be involved with everything that we do."
 
Baseball has taught Wiley more than just skills on the field. It's given the two-year varsity player life lessons that extend far beyond the game.
 
"The importance of camaraderie, how to have the back of the guy next to you and how to trust in one another…I think that's really important, on and off the field," says Wiley.
 
After graduation, Wiley hopes to continue playing baseball at the highest level possible, study finance and trust in God's plan to lead him down the right path. He is grateful for the guidance his parents have provided, supporting him every step of the way.
 
"They raised me to be the young man that I am today," says Wiley of his mom and dad. "They got me into sports, but they also helped me with life. My mom, especially, guided me through my faith. They're people I can always go to, regardless of how old I am, where I am or what it's about."