Clutch Victory for Charlotte Catholic

In the 4th round of the 2024 NCHSAA Baseball State Championship - 4A semifinal, the Charlotte Catholic Cougars edged out the Alexander Central Cougars in a nail-biter, clinching a 4-3 victory by the end of the 7th inning. 

Charlotte Catholic's Mason Child delivered a standout performance on the mound, allowing just one earned run on eight hits over six innings and recording six strikeouts. 

Photos by Nextlevel_CLT

To View More Game Photos Click Here

Offensively, it was a true team effort. Nathan Schwartz's clutch single in the bottom of the seventh brought home junior Jon Fijalkowski, sealing the win and sending Charlotte Catholic to the West Regional championship series for the first time in nearly 40 years. 

Photos by Nextlevel_CLT

To View More Game Photos Click Here

Fijalkowski set the stage towards the end with a single, advancing on a double by senior catcher Sam Hucko. Alexander Central then intentionally walked Evan McIntyre to load the bases. Schwartz stepped up and delivered the game-winning hit, driving in the runner from third.

Sam Hucko contributed significantly, going 2-for-4 with a run scored and a double, while John Hucko went 1-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI, helping the Cougars secure their hard-fought victory.

Photos by Nextlevel_CLT

To View More Game Photos Click Here

Alexander Central showcased their depth with seven different players recording at least one hit. Wade Queen made a notable impact, going 2-for-4, scoring a run, and stealing a base. Sawyer Chapman-Mays also delivered a strong performance, going 2-for-4 with two RBIs and a double.