The Orofino Merchants American Legion baseball program is more than a summer league; it is a laboratory where teenage athletes sharpen their skills while learning the values of teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship. Under the guidance of a close‑knit coaching staff, the program seeks to lay a solid foundation for younger players, allowing them to absorb the habits of seasoned teammates and carry those lessons into high school and beyond.
Coaching staff and team composition
Scotty Tondevold serves as the program manager, coordinating daily operations and ensuring that each squad has the resources it needs to thrive. Alex Anderson leads the Merchants A (19U) squad as head coach, while Sean Diffin and Chris Merry share responsibilities for the Merchants B (16U) team, fostering a collaborative environment that bridges age gaps and skill levels.
The B squad, composed of players ranging from 12 to 16 years old, is deliberately cultivated to spark a love of the game in its youngest participants. By practicing alongside the A team, the B players observe the work ethic and preparation routines of older teammates, internalizing techniques that would otherwise take years to acquire.
Development focus and recent performance
Recent results show a 6‑7 record for the Merchants A team and a 2‑8 record for the B team, but the numbers only tell part of the story. The coaching staff emphasizes a strong pitching staff, aggressive base‑running, and a reliable middle infield as the program’s core strengths. Players consistently display high baseball IQ and infectious energy, traits that have drawn attention from college recruiters.
Among the standout athletes, Jaeger Tondevold has committed to the College of Idaho, while Ethan Gilmore will continue his career at Dawson Community College in Glendive, Montana. Other notable names — Blake Barlow, Lane Turcott, Tyler Zumpe, Colt Schoo, Tovin Lundgren, Hemi Ketola, Tanner Crosby, and Camden Tondevold — bring a blend of skill and enthusiasm that fuels the team’s competitive spirit.
Looking ahead
The ultimate ambition of the Orofino Merchants program extends beyond wins and losses. Coaches aim to develop better people by teaching adversity, failure, and the power of collective effort. As the squad prepares for the next season, the chemistry among players from Orofino, Kooskia, and Grangeville remains positive, promising a future where athletic excellence and personal growth walk hand in hand.