Achmed Khan - A Leader On and Off the Field
Written and Editied by Pat Kendricks
Published January 25th, 2025
As the captain of the Winona Wave Riders baseball team, Achmed Khan has long been a figure of leadership on the field. But beyond his on-field accomplishments, Khan is also taking a proactive role in shaping the future of baseball in Winona through his involvement in local youth programs. Recognizing that the sport’s growth relies on cultivating young talent, Khan has made it a personal mission to mentor and inspire the next generation of players.
Youth Baseball
Khan’s commitment to nurturing future talent is evident in his active involvement with several youth baseball programs in Winona. One of his primary roles is serving as a coach and mentor for local youth baseball leagues. He regularly participates in practices, offering advice on both the technical aspects of the game—such as batting technique, pitching mechanics, and fielding—and the mental aspects, including discipline, focus, and teamwork.
In addition to working directly with players, Khan also collaborates with local organizations like the Winona Youth Baseball Association (WYBA) to organize clinics and camps throughout the year. These events focus on skill development, but they also aim to instill the core values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance. Khan emphasizes the importance of hard work and a positive attitude, both on and off the field.
“It's not just about learning how to play baseball,” Khan explained. “It's about learning other important life-lessons like how to handle failure and how to keep pushing forward even when things get tough, like a slump. Those lessons stay with you even when the game is over.”
Fostering Relationships
Khan's influence extends into local schools as well. He partners with Winona’s middle and high schools to host baseball-themed events, encouraging students to get involved in the sport at an early age. By collaborating with physical education teachers, Khan helps design curriculum elements that introduce kids to the basics of baseball in a fun and engaging way.
Additionally, Khan visits schools to talk to students about the benefits of playing sports and the unique opportunities baseball provides. His efforts aim to raise awareness of the sport among young people who may not otherwise have considered baseball as an option. By meeting kids where they are—in the classrooms and on the playgrounds—Khan is broadening the appeal of the sport and making it accessible to a more diverse range of athletes.
"Baseball isn’t just a game for a certain people," Khan noted. "It’s a game for everyone. Whether you’re fast, strong, or smart, there is always a place for you. I want every kid to know that they can be a part of something special, no matter their background."
Building the Community Up
Achmed Khan’s efforts to engage with youth baseball are already making a significant impact. Local families have responded positively to the increased visibility of the Wave Riders and the focus on community development. For many young athletes, seeing a role model like Khan—someone who has achieved success through hard work and dedication—provides a tangible example of what’s possible for all of them.
"I’ve seen kiddos who were just starting out, unsure of themselves, come to these camps and clinics and walk away with more confidence in their abilities," said Emily Foster, a local parent whose son has attended several of Khan’s youth programs. "It’s incredible to see how he’s connecting with them, and I know that it’s making a big difference in their lives."
Moreover, Khan’s presence in the community has helped strengthen the relationship between the Winona Wave Riders and their local fanbase. His involvement in youth programs not only promotes baseball but also fosters a sense of pride within the community. The Wave Riders are no longer just a professional team—they’re a central part of Winona’s fabric, contributing to the city’s identity and its future, now and going forward!
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, Khan’s focus on developing future generations of baseball players remains unwavering. His commitment to youth programs is set to continue, and he hopes to expand these initiatives even further in the coming years.
"Baseball is a game of perseverance, teamwork, and passion," Khan concluded. "My goal is to ensure that kids in Winona continue to have access to great baseball programs, and that they have the support they need to chase their dreams—on the field and beyond."
For Achmed Khan, the true victory lies not in the wins and losses on the scoreboard but in the knowledge that he is helping to build a lasting legacy for baseball in Winona—one young player at a time.
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