During the 2024-25 school year, Gordon High School’s Longhorns have already won state titles in football and both boys and girls track and field. But this year, their baseball team is making history too. For the first time ever, Gordon’s baseball team reached the state semifinals and is now headed to the state championship game.
Longhorns Sweep Hamlin to Reach State Finals
To reach the state title game, the Longhorns had to beat Hamlin. They won Game 1 with a strong 14-1 victory and followed it up by beating Hamlin again 9-6 in Game 2. This win helped Gordon sweep the series and secure their spot in the state finals.
Experience from Other Sports Helps Baseball Team
Many players on the baseball team have also played on Gordon’s state-winning football team. Players like Brayden Walters, Stryker Reed, Aiden Shank, Evan Jackson, and Noah Kostiha have experience playing in big games. The football team won the UIL state title by beating Whiteface 70-24 last year.
The Longhorns also had a great track season, with both boys and girls teams winning state titles. Stryker Reed was named Athlete of the Meet at the state track meet. Reed also helped the baseball team with key hits during their latest win.
Coach West says his players are tough because they have played under pressure before. They have experience playing in big football, basketball, and track games, which helps them stay focused during important baseball games.
Overcoming Challenges and Showing Community Strength
Before this year, Gordon’s baseball team had never reached the state semifinals. They made a record-setting run by beating Perrin-Whitt and then sweeping Hamlin. This achievement is even more special because the town of Gordon, which has about 500 people, was recently hit by a tornado that damaged many school buildings and sports facilities.
The team says their close community helps them stay strong. Player Aiden Shank said, “We’re proud to be from Gordon. Coming together, working hard, and having fun with each other is what makes us strong.”
Coach West Brings Valuable State Championship Experience
While none of the Gordon baseball players have played in a UIL state championship before, their coach, Ligon West, has. West played baseball at Stamford High School and helped his team reach the state championship games in Round Rock in 2013 and 2016. Now coaching Gordon, he uses his experience to prepare the team for their biggest game yet.
West said, “I was lucky enough to play there as a player. It was nine years ago when we clinched a trip to Round Rock on this very field.”
Looking Ahead to the State Title Game
After their win against Hamlin, the Longhorns celebrated by chanting “Dell Diamond,” where the state title game will be held. Gordon will face Fayetteville for the Class 1A state championship on June 7 at 9 a.m.
Coach West believed from the start of the season that his team could reach this level, and now the Longhorns have proven him right with their strong playoff performance.