Thetford Academy's baseball team captured the Vermont Principals' Association Division III state championship for the second consecutive year, completing an unbeaten season with an 8‑0 victory over Bellows Falls.
An Undefeated Run
The Panthers finished the year without a single loss, extending a 15‑game winning streak in which they outscored opponents by more than ten runs per contest.
At the center of that dominance was senior pitcher Miles Lawrence, who delivered six scoreless innings, allowing just three hits and three walks while striking out seven batters.
Offensively, Tommy Amber provided the decisive blow, launching a three‑run homer in the bottom of the third inning that opened a lead the team never relinquished.
A Tribute to a Lost Mentor
The championship also served as a poignant tribute to former coach Ryan Pepe, who passed away in December; the team wore jerseys bearing his No. 3 throughout the title game.
Assistant coach Jarrod Grassi, a longtime figure in Upper Valley baseball, coached his final game with Thetford, marking the end of a distinguished tenure.
Program Legacy and Future Outlook
Head coach Kris Keelty described the squad as possibly the best in school history, noting that the championship adds to a recent stretch that includes three titles in the past four years.
With core players such as Wyatt Parker, Owen Goodrich and Xander Oshoniyi returning next season, the Panthers are poised to defend their crown and continue their ascent in Vermont high school baseball.