The Academy baseball team was seeded as the number one team in the Columbus district, heading into round two of sectionals after a bye in the first round. The boys faced off against Mount Gilead High School on Monday, May 9, winning 7-2. Strong performances from pitchers Nick Stringer’17 and Grey Harmon’16 helped the Vikes maintain a solid lead throughout the game, with 16 first-pitch strikes and 11 strikeouts combined. Sophomore Ryan Mitchell gave a solid performance with three hits, followed by Stringer with two more.

Successfully winning the game allowed the team to continue to the final round of sectionals where it competed against Northridge. Senior Matthew Watters skillfully pitched 19 first-pitch strikes and seven strikeouts shutting out the opponent, leading the Vikings to a 4-0 victory. With this showing of fantastic defense, Academy looks to move beyond districts this year.

“I know if we keep our focus and play well on defense we’re a tough team to beat,” Stringer said. “When we play like that, I like our chances against anyone in the state.”

After these first two triumphs in the sectional tournament, the Vikings have paved their path to a fruitful postseason.