A Historic Win for Northern Idaho
The Lewis-Clark Bucs secured the Idaho B State Championship with a 17-7 victory over the Orofino Merchants B at War Memorial Park, ending the game in the sixth inning via the 10-run rule. The win represents the first state title ever captured by a Northern Idaho team at the B level, a milestone that has resonated throughout the region.
Coach Garrett Beckman, who guided the squad from the outset, described the championship as the team's primary goal from the start of the season. He emphasized that the triumph was not just a personal achievement but the result of collective effort involving players, coaches, parents, and the board.
Key contributors for the Bucs included Blake Brower, who led the offense with three hits and two RBI, and Conrad Kress, who added a triple and three RBI. Damon Rubio and Henry Pernsteiner also chipped in with timely hits and RBI, while Colt Schoo paced Orofino with two hits, including a double, and two RBI for the losing side.
Beckman praised the Orofino Merchants for their strong tournament performance, acknowledging their competitive spirit. He also took the opportunity to highlight the program's growth, noting that the victory underscores the potential of the Lewis-Clark American Legion baseball program and the upcoming Lewiston High School baseball initiative.
Looking Ahead
The championship marks a turning point for the Bucs, who are still in the early stages of building a sustained competitive program. Beckman expressed excitement about the future, stating that the experience will serve as a foundation for continued success and community engagement.