Bryson McNew entered the 2026 season with the mindset to dominate.
Not arrogantly, but necessarily, as the returning Class AAAA WVSWA first-team all-state catcher set out to lead the Knights this season, his junior year.
“I think every player has to have that mindset in order to succeed,” McNew said. “My main focus this offseason was to improve my bat speed and my mobility. My main individual goal is simply to be the best player on the field every time I step onto it.”
He’s done nothing short of that to begin the campaign for PHS with a .583 batting average through the opening five games with seven hits (two HRs), eight RBI, and only one strikeout in 18 plate appearances.
Along with his numbers offensively, McNew has also drawn six walks, something that isn’t uncommon for him. He drew 24 as a sophomore last season.
“My main approach at the moment at the plate is to stay aggressive,” he said. “I haven’t been seeing as many pitches in the strike zone this season, so I have to try and attack a pitch when I have the chance. Staying confident no matter what is what has always worked for me.”
Bryson finished his sophomore season in 2025 batting .646 with 31 hits and 27 RBI. He belted eight homers and five doubles as well.
While the Knights haven’t had the same success as a unit in recent years, McNew has managed to make an impact on the all-state level, with selections in both his freshman (Class AAA 2nd team) and sophomore (Class AAAA 1st team) seasons.
“Pressure is a privilege to me,” Bryson said. “The good Lord blessed me with an ability, and He will always be there to help me deal with anything. Before the season, Ayden Ward told me that pressure was just something we put in our tires, so I try to hold those words with me also.”
The Knights will look to get back in the win column and pull their record to .500 with a win over Fairmont Senior at home on Tuesday evening.
