When it comes to the definition of a Redwood athlete, senior Sam Gersch sets the standard. A rare two-sport, four-year varsity athlete, Gersch has competed in soccer and baseball throughout high school, fully dedicating himself to each team and becoming a cornerstone of Redwood athletics.
His recent season has only further cemented his legacy. On the soccer field, Gersch earned first-team all-league honors his senior season, building on an honorable mention award as a junior. He led the team in scoring with 11 goals (averaging 0.7 per game) and also tallied 4 assists. But Gersch’s impact goes far beyond the stat sheet.
“I’m not the best technical player with my feet, but I feel like I understand the game,” Gersch said. “I think what sets me apart is my mindset and competitiveness. There’s a saying, ‘I hate losing more than I like winning,’ which applies to me really well.”
As a winger, Gersch constantly pressed defenses, disrupting plays before they could fully develop. His intensity and high rate forced opponents to game-plan specifically for him, elevating his status as a leader.
Junior Chase Martin, who played alongside Gersch for three years, emphasized how vital Gersch was to the team’s performance.
“[Gersch] was one of our best [players]. He helped us on and off the field and did everything you could’ve asked of him as a teammate,” Martin said. “He was the perfect captain— [he] held everybody responsible and pushed us all to be our best.”
For Gersch, stepping into leadership roles on both soccer and baseball teams came naturally, largely because of the captains who had led before him.
“Looking back, what helped me the most was being able to reflect on the captains I played with throughout my four years,” Gersch said. “They showed me what it means to be a leader on and off the field. Leading by example is huge—anybody can talk, but showing people how to lead through your actions is what really sticks.”
That mindset translated seamlessly to the baseball diamond. As a two-time captain and two-time first-team all-league honoree, Gersch was a key force for the Giant’s success. This year, he posted a .304 batting average, knocked three home runs, stole 12 bases and drove in 19 RBIs.
He played a central role in the team’s back-to-back Marin County Athletic League championships, helping the Giants to a 28-5 record last year and an 18-8 finish this season.
Gersch approaches everything with intensity and focus, whether at practice or in games.
“I take practice just as seriously as anybody,” Gersch said. “When I’m focused on a drill or something I’m trying to work on, I don’t let other things dictate my performance. Practicing like I play helps me slow the game down, and that makes it easier to execute under pressure.”
Gersch’s preparation doesn’t stop on the field, either.
“The night before games, I try to envision how I’ll play, what pitches I might see, or how defenses might line up. I don’t drink caffeine before games to stay calm and in control. Playing calmly and trusting in my ability is what really helps me.”
As Gersch prepares to graduate, he leaves behind big shoes to fill on both teams. He’ll continue his athletic career at Middlebury College in Vermont, where he will play baseball and bring his trademark mindset to the collegiate level.
