Harrison High School's baseball squad captured its first regional championship, etching a milestone into the program's history.
The victory was underscored by a heartfelt tribute: the team stitched the initials 'DJ' onto the brims of their caps, a quiet homage to their late coach, Don Jostworth.
Jostworth, who passed away in August 2025 at the age of 74, had left an indelible mark on the club, and the players wanted to carry his memory onto the field.
The championship game unfolded in dramatic fashion, as Nicholas Hrnyak, a junior and the coach's grandson, drove home the go‑ahead run in the final innings against Anderson.
Tucker Ward, a senior who considered Jostworth a mentor, suggested the idea of honoring the coach, and head coach Ben Toerner embraced the gesture regardless of the season's record.
Despite finishing the regular season with a modest 10‑10 record, the team rallied, turning a near double‑play into a pivotal moment that secured the win.
A Stitch That Speaks Volumes
The 'DJ' embroidery is more than a design; it is a visual promise that the coach's guidance continues to shape the team's identity.
Looking Toward Canton
Now, the squad prepares for the state semifinals, scheduled for 4 p.m. in Canton, where they will look to extend their fairytale run.