Fresh off a 2025 conference championship, Mayville baseball enters the spring with momentum — and a new leader at the helm. Following the retirement of longtime skipper, Coach Corey Held, the Cardinals have named Matt Dwyer as the program’s new varsity head coach. Dwyer brings a decade of collegiate experience and a passion for developing young men both on and off the field as he takes over a team coming off a title run.
A Love for the Game Drives the Decision
For Dwyer, stepping into the role at Mayville High School was about more than advancing his career — it was about giving back.
“My love for baseball,” Dwyer said when asked what inspired him to take on the position. “The game has taught me so many life lessons, and I want to give back to the game.”
That appreciation for baseball’s lessons — perseverance, accountability, and teamwork — will serve as the foundation of the program moving forward.
Collegiate Background Brings Experience
Before coming to Mayville, Dwyer spent 10 years coaching at the collegiate level, including nine seasons in the NAIA ranks and one season at the NCAA Division III level. That experience has shaped his understanding of preparation, player development, and what it takes for athletes to compete beyond high school.
Culture and Competitiveness Go Hand in Hand
While wins are important — especially for a program coming off a championship season — Dwyer emphasized that his primary focus centers on sustaining success through culture.
“To work hard on building the culture of the program while also being as competitive as possible,” he said.
That culture starts with daily habits.
“I think being punctual, driven, and focused on that day's goals or tasks is a first priority,” Dwyer explained. “Lastly, we ask the players to attack everything we do with a competitive mindset.”
Student-Athlete Comes First
Academics remain non-negotiable within the program.
“The term is listed ‘Student-Athlete,’ and as a program we are not wavering from that,” Dwyer said. “We have stressed to our players that playing in our program is a privilege and must be earned — and it starts in the classroom.”
The message is clear: success on the diamond begins with responsibility in school.
Parents and Community as Pillars of Support
Dwyer also stressed the importance of strong backing from families and the Mayville community.
“We ask the parents of our players to always be the biggest fans and support system both on and off the field,” he said.
Mayville baseball has long benefited from loyal community support, and that connection remains vital as the Cardinals look to defend their conference crown.
Defining Success Beyond the Scoreboard
In Dwyer’s eyes, a successful season extends well beyond wins and losses.
“Being able to witness our players still love the game that they have played since little kids is the ultimate success story,” he said.
He sees his role as both mentor and motivator — pushing players to meet high expectations while supporting their growth as young men.
“Being their coach who wants the best for them on and off the field — but still holding them to the high expectations and standards we set for our program.”
With a championship foundation in place and a fresh voice in the dugout, Mayville baseball under Dwyer is poised to build on its success while embracing a promising new era.
The Cardinals open the season Tuesday, March 31, at home at Fireman’s Field against nonconference opponent Lakeside Lutheran High School. First pitch is scheduled for 5 p.m.
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