Apponequet Regional High School’s baseball squad etched its name into Massachusetts history this June, reaching the MIAA Division 3 state final for the first time in three decades.
The championship game, held at Worcester’s Polar Park on June 13, pitted the Falcons against a seasoned Middleboro team that had already captured three titles. Apponequet drew first blood in the second inning when Bryce Figueroa’s clutch double plated a run, giving the Falcons a 1‑0 edge.
A Pitcher's Duel
Apponequet’s left‑hander Peite Kanakis delivered a spectacular 3 ⅔ innings of no‑hit baseball, striking out seven batters before fatigue set in. His effort kept the Falcons competitive despite the growing pressure.
Middleboro answered in the third, plating two runs to flip the scoreboard to 2‑1. The rally was fueled by timely hits and a walk that loaded the bases, setting the stage for EJ Wanke’s RBI single.
The Falcons’ final chance came in the seventh, but a well‑timed double play by Middleboro’s infield sealed the victory, leaving Apponequet’s dream just one out away from reality.
Voices from the Dugout
Coach Jim Cabucio praised his team’s resilience, noting that the work ethic they showed all season paid off in every pitch and swing. Coach Jeff Sylvia of Middleboro highlighted the significance of the win for his players, calling it a testament to their dedication. Senior catcher Sean Lundrigan expressed gratitude for the historic run, saying the experience would stay with them forever.
Garrett Butler led the Falcons at the plate with a 2‑for‑4 performance, while Ryan Levesque’s 2 ⅓ innings of relief added four strikeouts to the effort. Other seniors such as Tylor Zamora, Nolan Trottier and Logan Singleton also contributed throughout the game, underscoring the depth of the historic run.