Ben Yeckel knows the high standard set by the Shaler baseball program. Yeckel, who is 43 and a 2000 Shaler graduate, knew the feeling as a player.
While serving as an assistant for 10 years under Brian Junker, he knew it as a coach too. Continuing that tradition is something Yeckel feels is important.
“That is the challenge, maintaining the success,” said Yeckel, who was a four-year starter at Shaler. “Being part of the process is important to me. This is an opportunity for me to give back.”
Junker’s 16-year run was enormously successful. During his final season, the Titans finished 20-7, beat Pine-Richland in the WPIAL Class 5A title game and reached the PIAA final. It was the seventh WPIAL championship in Shaler’s history.
Yeckel said he appreciated the time he had to coach under Junker.
“I learned a lot,” Yeckel said. “It’s my turn to see what we can do to continue the success.”
Junker also guided the Titans to championships in 2019 and 2023. Shaler also won the PIAA title in 2023.
“I grew up in Shaler, spending my childhood watching Shaler High School baseball and attending every camp I could from age 7 on,” Junker said in a Facebook post when he stepped down. “I idolized the teams and players that came before me and dreamed of the day I’d wear a Titans uniform myself. All I ever wanted as a kid was to play for the legendary coach Jerry Matulevic — a man who shaped not just ballplayers, but generations of young men. When my playing days ended, all I wanted was to come back and coach the program that gave me so much — and to give just as much back in return.
“When I was hired 16 years ago, it felt like being named manager of the New York Yankees for all the reasons above. It did not disappoint. This has been one of the most rewarding and fulfilling chapters of my life — and I am proud of what we accomplished.”
Shaler lost 12 players from last year’s team. Yeckel, who is a social studies teacher, said his baseball philosophy is centered on being solid with fundamentals. With his work background, Yeckel feels this is something that he is well-equipped to do.
“Coaching is teaching with a sports mindset,” Yeckel said. “I have a fundamental approach to baseball.”
Bryan O’Black, Shaler Area superintendent, said in a news release that he was happy with how Yeckel handled the interview process.
“Coach Yeckel brings a tremendous blend of leadership, instructional expertise and a deep understanding of what it means to build a successful and student-centered athletic program,” O’Black said. “His commitment to fostering strong relationships, developing well-rounded athletes and creating a culture of accountability and teamwork truly stood out through the interview process.”