The Columbus Catholic Dons captured their first WIAA state baseball championship in Division 4 on Saturday, defeating Potosi/Cassville 8‑4.
Both teams traded a single run in the opening inning, but the contest quickly intensified as the Dons began to pull ahead.
Third‑inning explosion
In the third inning Columbus erupted for five unanswered runs, turning a close game into a commanding lead.
The Dons added two more runs in the fifth to further stretch their advantage.
Potosi/Cassville responded with a couple of runs in the sixth, but the Dons’ defense held firm.
Freshman Tyler Hargraves was the offensive catalyst, driving in three runs, while pitcher Ryan Bernick earned the win after a solid five‑inning outing.
The victory marks a historic milestone for the program and sparked celebration among students, families and the broader Columbus community.