Lions are State Champions!

Clear Lake’s 2013 baseball team has been known by several names this season-- Cardiac Kids,  Comeback Kids,  The Incredibles, North Central Conference Champions and District Champions.

Add one more to the list.

State Champions.

For the first time in school history, the Lions brought home a State baseball title.  Their 6-2 victory over Davenport Assumption Saturday evening made the Lions, who had been rated number one or two throughout much of the season, the Class 3A champion.

“These kids have shown the ability, determination, and heart to pull off comebacks like this all year, but to do it on this stage under the lights and pressure of Principal Park  is an amazing feat,” said Head Coach Seth Thompson. “This was a pretty special night for Clear Lake baseball, and really the whole community of Clear Lake that was out in full force supporting this team every step of the way.”

Fans dressed in gold out-numbered and out-cheered virtually all opponents at Principal Park, as well as the tournament trail that took them to Des Moines.  The coach and his players said fan support was crucial in fanning their belief that they were never out of any contest.

Lightning struck twice for the Lions, as they repeated the Sub-State semi-final scenario which had them down to their final out-- final strike-- before elimination.  But just as they did against Waverly-Shell Rock, the team rallied against Chariton to win, 5-4, in the first round at State.

“Most teams during District and State tournament play will tighten up in big pressure, end-of-game situations, but for whatever reason pressure makes these Lions stronger, tougher, and even more amazing and Chariton found that out,” said Thompson.

A victory over Harlan put the Lions in Saturday’s Championship game to face Davenport Assumption, which knocked off top ranked Sioux City Heelan in extra innings in the semi-finals.  The Knights pounded out 14 hits, compared to just five for the Lions, but as they had all season Clear Lake found a way to win.

“I couldn’t be happier for these - Read More Via e-Edition