Since moving to Dolores five years ago, Wyatt Kiddoo has become one of the core leaders of the baseball program, working alongside his teammates to build a strong foundation for this season and for future players after his graduation in the spring.
Before Dolores head coach and athletic director Curtis Garver revived the baseball team a couple of years ago, Kiddoo, as a Dolores student, began traveling to Dove Creek as a freshman for their 2022 season and moved up to their varsity squad his sophomore year in the 2023 season. During the latter season, the Bulldogs finished with an 11-9 regular season record and a 4-2 record in league play.
Although Kiddoo’s time with the Bulldogs was brief, he gained valuable field experience playing at the varsity level by capitalizing on every chance he could get. In two games that season, he posted a perfect batting average, going 1-for-1 at the plate with one run and one RBI. His fielding had been flawless as well, recording two putouts without committing any errors.
These performances highlighted his potential and readiness for higher levels of play, reflecting the culmination of the skills Wyatt has developed since he started playing at the age of five.
Kiddoo returned to play for Dolores when it introduced its first baseball team in years last season. His growth from his junior to senior year stands as a testament to his development, not only as a player but also as a leader who sets an example for others.
Last year, in his junior season, Wyatt played 15 games, posting a solid fielding percentage of .940 and stealing five bases, showcasing his defensive reliability. He committed just six errors in 100 total chances while contributing 84 putouts to the team.
However, it was his drive to continuously improve that set him apart, and he felt excited to play for his school’s team.
“It was different,” Kiddoo said about the transition. “But it’s been great playing for the town I’m from now.”
In his senior season, Kiddoo has continued to refine his skills and take his game to the next level.
His fielding percentage of .926 in 14 of the Bears' games so far, combined with few errors, reflects the work he has put into making himself a more consistent and reliable presence in the field. His 71 putouts show just how active he has been in key defensive situations, even in a season filled with challenges.
Additionally, Wyatt’s offensive contributions have been vital for the team. Though his batting average sits at .250 this season, his leadership and hustle have been central to the team’s efforts to stay competitive. His speed on the base paths is evident, as he’s stolen four bases this season, showing a willingness to take risks and create scoring opportunities.
Kiddoo’s journey goes beyond just stats. It’s about the impact he’s had on the team’s growth and the foundation he’s helping to build. As one of three seniors on the roster, he’s dedicated to passing down his knowledge to younger players, teaching them the same lessons of hard work, resilience, and teamwork that have been central to his development.
“It’s been a slow start, but I know we’ll eventually have a solid team. It’s gotten a long way from not having a team for the past few years,” Kiddoo said about the team. “I hope the program becomes huge and competitive to make it to state in a few years. By then, I’ll be long graduated, but I really hope to see them grow.”
Although Kiddoo has not lived in Dolores since childhood, he remains grateful for the supportive and welcoming community that has embraced him.
“I haven’t lived here my whole life, but it’s been nice how inviting the (Dolores) community has been,” he said. “I didn’t know my teammates growing up, and they all played together for years, but they’ve made me feel like part of the team, and it’s been a really enjoyable experience.”
Kiddoo, a member of the National Honor Society, received the Tim Cooper Memorial Scholarship in March. This award is given to students who demonstrate a strong appreciation for wildlife and outdoor recreation. In the fall, Kiddoo plans to attend McPherson College to pursue a degree in auto restoration.
