There are certain people in your life that can really make a difference. A gifted coach can definitely be one of those people.

A great coach doesn't just teach the fundamentals of a game, but teaches his players about values and the benefits of a hard-nosed work ethic.

Seekonk High School baseball coach Joe DeMelo is one of those coaches.

DeMelo has been recognized as the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) Baseball Coach of the Year for the 2023-24 season. Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell, Principal William Whalen and Athletic Director John Moran proudly announced the honor.

DeMelo has coached the varsity baseball team since 2011. Under his leadership, Seekonk's baseball team has flourished, especially in the past three seasons.

The Warriors made consecutive appearances in the Division 4 state championship and secured state baseball titles in 2023 and 2024. His team has only lost seven games over the past two years.

This past spring, the team posted a stellar 23-3 overall record, including a 13-2 finish in the South Coast Conference. They claimed the Division 4 state championship in June with an 8-0 victory over Pittsfield.

"I am grateful to receive this recognition from the MIAA," DeMelo said. "Our team has been incredible, and the hard work of these young men has truly paid off."

DeMelo will formally receive the award at the MIAA Awards Banquet in Milford on Dec. 11. Athletic Director John Moran expressed his gratitude for DeMelo's dedication.

"We are extremely appreciative of all that Coach DeMelo has done for Seekonk High School’s baseball program, and we are excited to celebrate this wonderful accomplishment with him," Moran said.

LOOK: MLB history from the year you were born

Stacker compiled key moments from Major League Baseball's history over the past 100 years. Using a variety of sources from Major League Baseball (MLB) record books, the Baseball Hall of Fame, and audio and video from events, we've listed the iconic moments that shaped a sport and a nation. Read through to find out what happened in MLB history the year you were born.

Gallery Credit: Seth Berkman

CHECK IT OUT: 100 sports records and the stories behind them

More From WFHN-FM/FUN 107