Mississippi State baseball players bond over fishing to build team chemistry

STARKVILLE — Mississippi State baseball players have been leveraging fishing trips to develop team chemistry, according to head coach Brian O’Connor. The players started sharing their catches on Instagram in August 2025, creating a social media account called ‘dawgscatchinghawgs.’ Since then, about three dozen photos showcasing their fishing successes have been posted.

Players, including veterans Ace Reese and Noah Sullivan, along with newcomers such as Aidan Teel and Chone James, have spent time on local ponds during the off-season. These outings have helped build bonds and trust among teammates, serving as an informal foundation for the upcoming season, Reese said.

Despite the hiatus in social media activity since November due to cold weather and season preparations, the relationships formed during these fishing trips have persisted and translated into a strong clubhouse culture. Reese noted that the team has come together faster than last year, emphasizing a sense of unity and camaraderie fostered by these shared experiences.

Coach O’Connor highlighted the importance of intentional efforts to develop team cohesion. He said the team’s culture has been shaped by daily practices that emphasize adversity and leadership. The Bulldogs have also focused on peer support, with players helping one another improve technically, which O’Connor described as a sign of their strong internal culture.

While the team has not yet played a game, O’Connor expressed confidence in their cohesion, noting that how they handle inevitable adversity will determine their success. He praised the group’s early chemistry and shared optimism about their ability to navigate challenges together, suggesting that their journey may have begun on a boat.

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