Four Class 1A baseball teams are gearing up for the state championship in Peoria this weekend. Among them are the Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley Falcons, Altamont Indians, Jacksonville Routt Rockets, and Ottawa Marquette Crusaders. Each team has fought hard to make it this far, but only one will emerge victorious.
The Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley Falcons have made history by reaching the state tournament for the first time. Led by coach Dustin White, the Falcons have relied on top hitter Brayden Elliott and top pitchers Elliott and Graydon Leonard to secure their spot in the championship game.
The Altamont Indians, also making their first appearance in the state tournament, have shown their strength in close games. With top hitter Keegan Schultz and top pitcher Dillan Elam leading the way, the Indians are ready to take on the competition.
The Jacksonville Routt Rockets have a successful state tournament history, winning the Class 1A state title in 2008. With top hitter Nolan Turner and top pitcher Conrad Charpentier, the Rockets have dominated their opponents on the road to the championship game.
Lastly, the Ottawa Marquette Crusaders have an impressive state tournament history, including a 2019 1A state championship. With top hitter Sam Mitre and top pitchers Alec Novotney and Carson Zellers, the Crusaders have shut down their foes to earn a spot in the championship game.
As the teams prepare to face off in Peoria, the competition is sure to be fierce. Only one team will walk away with the state championship trophy, but all four have already made their mark in the history books.