Meet Howard College baseball player Zack Costopoulos

Zack, a native of Cheyenne, graduated in May from Central High School. Phil, his stepfather and Post 6 Baseball Board President, encouraged Zack to try baseball at an early age. At 4 years old, Zack began his journey playing tee-ball. He then moved on to Cheyenne Junior League, Cheyenne Raptors, WYCO Select, and finally to Post 6 Baseball in eighth grade.

A power-hitting first baseman for the Sixers, Zack has broken or tied three Post 6 hitting records. Last season, he broke the Cheyenne Post 6 RBI record and tied the doubles record (shared with Bryce Nimmo). During his time with the Sixers, his team has won State twice, in 2020 and 2021, and qualified for the Connie Mack World Series in 2019. He hopes to win another state title this year and move on to Regionals and then the American Legion World Series. This would be a great way to round out his time with Post 6!

During his junior year, Zack realized that while he was strong, he needed to work on his speed to become a more well-rounded athlete. He partnered with Markum King at CrossFit Cheyenne. Through his speed training, Zack was able to improve his game by developing his fast-twitch muscles. He continued this method of training through his senior year while also participating in other CrossFit workouts.

This summer, Zack will embark on the next step in his baseball journey. He was recruited and signed with Howard College in Big Spring, Texas. The Hawks compete in the Western Junior College Athletic Conference. By majoring in kinesiology, Zack is planning to be a chiropractor if pro ball does not pan out for him. As his mom, Janice, always tells him, “You need to have a backup plan!” Zack, we wish you the best and can’t wait to see where your baseball career takes you next!

What does a typical day look like for you?
Zack is up and out the door before 4 a.m. multiple mornings. By 4 a.m., he is beginning his training at CrossFit. From there, he heads to a full academic day at Central High. This is followed by more training at CrossFit and then baseball practice.
 
What do you enjoy most about baseball?
When he was younger, it was all about hitting the ball. As his career evolved, he really began to appreciate the team aspect of the game.
 
What was your proudest moment?
Zack’s proudest moment was when he broke the RBI (runs batted in) record with 110 while playing Evanston during a state tournament game. He won the RBI record with a single through the “six” hole (the hole between third and short).
 
Do you have a favorite pro ball team?
Zack’s favorite team is the Washington Nationals. He has been a big fan since second grade when they drafted Bryce Harper. He has also been a big fan of Ryan Zimmerman. Zack has even had the opportunity to watch the Nationals play at Coors Field in Denver.
 
What advice would you give someone wanting to get into baseball?
Expect failure. You must be able to handle the adversity that comes with games and practice. Do everything 100 percent; this applies to life and baseball. Baseball is not a seasonal effort – it requires a year-round commitment. Work on your strength and speed!
 
Beyond baseball, what do you like to do?
Zack also played golf for Central High School during his freshman through junior years. He did not play his senior year so that he could focus on baseball. When he is not at school, working out, or playing baseball, you will find him hunting, fishing, or snowboarding. His favorite hunting spots are Hawk Springs for pheasant and quail. In terms of fishing, Zack and a group of friends enjoy fly fishing either on the Laramie Plains Lakes or in a steamboat on the Yampa River.
 
Who do you admire the most?
Zack admires his older brother, Dixon. Dixon played college baseball at New Mexico State and then at Saint Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa. Eventually, Dixon hung up his cleats and graduated from the Kentucky School of Optometry. He paved the way for Zack in terms of work ethic and determination.
 
If you were to continue playing baseball, what do you hope to become or accomplish someday?
Zack’s goal is to become a pro ball player.