After a series of unfortunate events last year, Northbrook Baseball was faced with a challenge in the head coach position. That’s when Coach Burger rose to the occasion and took charge of the Northbrook Baseball program. Despite coming in during the last quarter of the season—with a team that was broken, low in energy, and dealing with ineligible players—Coach Burger put the weight on his back and made it his goal to change the program for good.

The 2026 season will be Coach Burger’s first full season, and he has already done a lot for the program. From scheduled batting sessions and field work to weekly workouts, Coach Burger is leaning into his role as a first-time head varsity coach at 110%.

Coach Burger taking charge of the program has been talked about positively not only by the coaching staff but by the players as well. In an interview I had with Coach Lawrence, he said, “I honestly think he’s the perfect fit. He works hard, he makes sure everything is ready to go. I don’t think we could’ve picked anyone better.” Coach Lawrence also added, “He [Burger] symbolizes what it means to be a Raider.”

The players also seem to like the change. Daniel Goswick, a returning varsity player for Northbrook, said, “I think Burger will do more for the program just because he’s more active with us.” On top of that, Daniel Nieves, another returning varsity player, said, “He has the right mindset for all of us.”

I also got the chance to ask Coach Burger some questions about the situation. In response to how he handled it, Coach Burger said, “I like the challenge. I like that all my players are buying in… everyone has risen up to the challenge.” The mentality that Coach Burger has is spreading throughout the whole program, and it shows—everyone seems fired up and ready to go each and every day.

This just goes to show how Coach Burger has already affected the program in a positive way before even playing a single game. With Burger in charge, the future looks bright and promising.