Against all odds and with a roster made up entirely of sophomores and juniors, Lakeland Prep has defied expectations and completed a miracle season—culminating in a stunning victory over Huntingdon High School this afternoon 9-1 to claim the TSSAA 2A Tennessee State Championship. The Lions end the season with a 30-3 overall record.
Prep had a consistent attack at the plate all day, with timely bunts and hits from Emerson and Easton Peeler, Ryan Pitts, Noah Lindsey, Brett Godwin, Wyatt Helton and Jack McDaniel. The Lions delivered a strong defensive performance, while the Mustangs made two costly errors in the first inning, allowing Prep to score three quick runs. Huntingdon also had early struggles on the mound, issuing multiple walks over the first two innings that resulted in runs for Lakeland.
Olivier Grandchamp, named MVP for the game, went the distance for Lakeland, with one run allowed and 5 strikeouts as the starting pitcher for the Lions. Lakeland was the only school in the bracket, out of 12 teams, that never lost a game in the tournament. The Lions return the entire roster for next year.
In a strong display of community spirit, many fans who couldn’t make the trip to Murfreesboro for the championship game gathered at The Owner’s Box Sports Bar & Grille in Lakeland Town Square to cheer on the Prep baseball team. The game was streamed live on the NFHS Network.
Dr. Ted Horrell, Lakeland School Superintendent told Lakeland Currents a lot of work has gone into this effort. “This championship is the culmination of years of hard work, commitment, and dedication by these student athletes and their coaches. The support of the parents and community at large has demonstrated how our schools are at the heart of Lakeland, and has laid the foundation for years to come.” He added, “we’re so proud of these students and their coaches.”
