The father-son coaching relationship can be a delicate balance. Fortunately, the Sutterby’s seem to have it all figured out. Head coach Ryan, along with his all-region freshman son Brett, helped San Tan Foothills to the brink of a state championship earlier the month at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
While the Sabercats came up just short, falling to Phoenix Christian in extra innings in the 2A title game, the ride was one neither will forget.
“It’s been a great experience this year,” Coach Sutterby said to Sports360AZ.com. “Brett is an extremely hard worker. He goes out on his own and fits in really well.”
The second baseman/outfielder fit in well on the 27-5 ‘Cats, batting .350 and providing steady defense in the field all season.
“It feels good,” Brett explained to Sports360AZ.com on STFHS’s deep run into the playoffs and playing for his father. “He coached me my whole life and he knows me so well. He always says just to play hard and go out there and give it your all.”
Ryan knows all of Brett’s early high school success on the diamond has been earned, not given. When he isn’t working on his approach at the plate or taking extra infield, you may find him in front of his computer watching YouTube videos, likely of his favorite player, Houston Astro Jose Altuve.
“He’s small and he has everything against him,” Brett said of the 5-foot-6, 165-pound Altuve. “He just goes out there and does it, day in and day out.”
Dad’s advice to his son is clear-cut and simple.
“Just play baseball,” Ryan explained. “Focus on the fundamentals. Do the things that you can control. Don’t let anybody outwork you.”
Judging from what we’ve seen from Brett after just one season, don’t expect that to be a problem over the next three years in the far southeast Valley.
