The Erie High School baseball team returned home from their highly anticipated trip to Arizona with the sun still warming their skin and victory pumping through their veins. The trip to Arizona was an excellent way for the team to get closer.
The players, ranging from seasoned seniors to eager freshmen, had embraced the opportunity. Arizona promised not only warmer weather but also out-of-state competition, Junior Ronin Ward stated, “My favorite memory so far this year was definitely the trip to Arizona. It was a lot of fun and it really allowed the team to get closer.”
Their first game in the desert had been a walk in the park. Facing off against an opponent from Idaho under the scorching sun, the Erie team had battled relentlessly. With timely hitting, the Tigers scored a season high 15 runs and secured a whopping 10 run victory. The win set the tone for the rest of the tournament.
Game two had been a different story. This time shutting down the opposition not allowing a single run. The exceptional fielding and strategic pitching changes led to a finish every player was proud of.
The final game was the best game Erie had played both offensively and defensively. Knowing this was their final game in Arizona the team really wanted to put on a show. Erie dazzled offensively scoring 12 runs and were dominant defensively not allowing any scores. It truly was the perfect ending to a memorable trip. Taylor McMaster, a Junior at Erie, reflected , “We had lots of fun in Arizona and we got to hangout with the team, and we played really good baseball.”
However, their journey is far from over. As they settled back into their routine in Erie, the players reminded themselves of the bigger picture. They may have gone 3-0 in Arizona, but their overall record stands at 3-2. There are still challenges ahead, still games to be won, and still lessons to be learned.
Senior Northern Colorado commit Kaveh Meredith reminded himself of the end goal. “I mean our goal is still the same, win state.” Back on their home turf, the Erie High School baseball team continued to train and prepare for the battles ahead. Each practice is filled with determination and dedication, fueled by the memories of their triumphant journey to Arizona.
As the season progresses, the team will use their experience in Arizona to their advantage. They faced adversity with resilience, celebrated victories with humility, and never lost sight of their ultimate goal. And though their journey had begun in Arizona, it was on the fields of Erie that their legacy will be written.
