Baseball Tigers Head to Final Four, Eyeing Championship Title

All smiles as the Tigers prepare to board the bus to the Final Four! (photos S Jason Cole).

The Excelsior Springs Tigers baseball team is roaring with excitement as they have advanced to the final four of the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) Class 4 Baseball Championships. After falling just one game short of the final four last year, the Tigers are determined to bounce back and make a strong push for the championship title.

In a heartfelt show of support, dozens of friends, family, teachers, and community members gathered at the high school at noon today to bid farewell to the team in a spirited send-off. The Excelsior Springs Police Department also joined in, providing an escort as the Tigers embarked on their journey.

ESPD provided a special escort for the team as they journeyed out of town.

The team received a special surprise from Wanda Dusek and her family, who generously funded a charter bus in honor of Wanda’s late husband, Jim Dusek. Jim, a devoted baseball enthusiast and a true fan of the Excelsior Springs Tigers, would have been proud to see the team’s accomplishments and their dedication to the sport he loved.

Senior, Broc Dusek with his Grandma Wanda Dusek.

The much-anticipated MSHSAA Baseball Championships will take place at Sky Bacon Stadium on North 19th St. in Ozark, MO. The Tigers will compete in the Class 4 semifinals on Wednesday, May 31st, with their game scheduled for 4:00 PM versus the Springfield Catholic Fighting Irish

The tournament will feature intense matchups and high-stakes battles as the teams vie for the coveted championship title. Win or lose, the Tigers will play again tomorrow, facing either the Fulton Hornets or the John Burroughs Bombers. Thursday, June 1st, the Class 4 3rd place matchup is at 4:00 PM, while the championship game will be at 7:00 PM. 

Excitement filled the air as players boarded the bus.

In an effort to ensure a safe and convenient experience for attendees, MSHSAA has implemented some general information and guidelines for fans traveling to the games. Gates will open one hour prior to the start of the first game(s) of the day, and a handstamp will be required for re-entry. Designated student sections can be found in Sections 107 (1st base) and 108 (3rd base), providing an energetic atmosphere for the young fans. Free parking will be available in the complex parking lots, offering convenience to those traveling to the games. Full concessions will be operational within the complex, providing a variety of refreshments to satisfy spectators’ cravings throughout the intense matchups.

Don't forget your glove!

For fans unable to attend the games in person, MSHSAA has made arrangements for live streaming on their official website, https://www.mshsaa.tv/. It’s important to note that no other sites are authorized to carry the games, and viewers are advised to avoid potential scams by sticking to the official platform.

As the Excelsior Springs Tigers gear up for their final four battle, the entire community rallies behind them, lending unwavering support and encouragement. The team’s resilience and determination are evident, and they are eager to bring home the championship title. Excelsior Springs stands united, proud of their Tigers, and eagerly awaiting the outcome of the intense competition. LET’S GO, TIGERS!

Good Luck, Tigers!

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