The Central High School baseball team roared into the state championship after a gripping semifinal victory over Ridgeview, a win that hinged on the arm of junior pitcher JT Girod. His nine strikeouts dazzled the crowd, and the team’s signature bleached hair — adopted as a symbol of their collective commitment — added a striking visual cue to the celebration.
A Team Forged in Unity
Coach Ben Kramer praised the players’ unity and determination, highlighting how the squad’s one‑more‑day mindset carried them through playoff wins over Wilsonville and Silverton. The bleached hair, now a badge of honor, reflects the players’ shared resolve.
The championship game is set for June 6 at PK Park in Eugene, where Central will face Thurston in a battle of the season’s most resilient teams. Community support has been relentless, and the players say that belief in each other fuels their focus on every pitch.
Central’s roster blends one senior, ten juniors and several underclassmen, creating a tight‑knit group where sophomore Cooper Larson’s clutch contributions proved decisive in the semifinal. Teammates Joe Mendazona and Easton Herbert have been vocal pillars throughout the run, embodying the spirit that has defined the team’s journey.