Matt Eades, the longtime mentor of Pueblo County High School’s baseball squad, capped a remarkable turnaround by guiding the Hornets to their first ever state championship in program history. After an uneven start to the season, Eades rallied his players, instilling the belief that they could compete with the state’s elite.
The team responded with a 17‑1 stretch, culminating in a perfect 4‑0 run through the Class 4A tournament. That surge transformed a modest start into a historic finish that will be remembered for years to come.
A Season of Resilience
At the heart of that run was senior right‑hander Blake Swift, whose dominant performances earned him CHSAA Class 4A Player of the Year honors and an All‑Colorado selection. Swift finished the tournament with an 8‑2 record and a 1.51 ERA, delivering clutch outings when the Hornets needed them most.
The offense clicked behind All‑Colorado second baseman Nick Hernandez, whose steady defense and timely hitting helped the Hornets maintain momentum in critical games. Hernandez’s leadership at the plate was a cornerstone of the team’s balanced attack.
Eades’ coaching pedigree stretches back to his days umpiring high school games and leading a youth team before joining the Pueblo County staff, a path that forged his deep understanding of the sport and his ability to connect with players.
A Legacy in the Making
Eades finishes his tenure with a 148‑55 record and has led the Hornets to the playoffs each season, a consistency that underscores his strategic acumen and player development. The championship joins previous titles in wrestling, softball and girls basketball, cementing Pueblo County’s reputation as a multi‑sport powerhouse.
Beyond the wins, Eades’ blend of leadership, humor and passion has left an indelible mark on his players, who credit his guidance for their growth on and off the field. As the community celebrates this milestone, the future looks bright for a program built on resilience and belief.