SANDPOINT — New Sandpoint head baseball coach Scott Fitchett has one important thing in mind when he takes over the program this spring: W.I.N.

Fitchett, 27, was recently named the new baseball coach, succeeding Chris Young, who stepped down last year after four seasons at the helm. Fitchett, who currently teaches social studies at SHS, played baseball for the Bulldogs, graduating in 2003.

He’s spent the past six years as an assistant baseball coach in Astoria, Ore., where his mentor stressed W.I.N, an acronym that has nothing to do with victory, and everything to do with What’s Important Now.

“Focusing on the task at hand, pitch to pitch and play to play,” explained Fitchett of the philosophy, eager to finally be the head coach of his own team. “It’s a pretty interesting feeling. I had the opportunity to take a head coaching job before, but never had the desire. For some reason I had this vision of what Sandpoint baseball could be, and it’s exciting.”

Fitchett played under Al Beard, Tom Miles and Derek Dickinson while at Sandpoint, and eventually played in college at what is now Corbin University in Salem, Oregon. With deep ties to Sandpoint, it was an easy decision to take over the program he once played for.

When asked his goal for the season, Fitchett needed only one word for his answer: Better.

“That’s the theme for the year. As students, athletes and young men, you can always get better every day, in every way,” said Fitchett, adding what he loves most about baseball. “No matter your role in the genetic lottery, there’s always a spot for you in baseball. It combines so many elements from the mental side to the physical side.”

Fitchett has also been an assistant football and basketball coach, bringing plenty of playing and coaching experience to the table. He was one of two coaches that applied for the job, and Sandpoint athletic director Kris Knowles said he shined in the interview and was the favorite of the committee.

“I’m incredibly excited to have Scott on board. His wife is from here, and it’s kind of his dream position,” said Knowles, adding Fitchett has done an excellent job in the classroom this year. “More than anything, he has a way of connecting with kids. I’m convinced he’s going to do a very nice job for our kids.”