N.A. wins Dixie Majors state title
North Augusta's 19U Dixie Majors team captured the South Carolina state championship Wednesday, defeating Green Sea Floyd 10-2.
"It meant a lot to the kids," said head coach Stacey Butler. "This is the first time most of these kids have won states."
North Augusta defeated Florence (11-0), Dentsville (9-7), Liberty (2-1) and Summervile (3-1) on the way to the title game after topping Aiken in two games to win the district crown.
Wednesday's game started with a bang, as Tripp Warrick and Zach Herron hit back-to-back home runs in the opening frame to put North Augusta ahead and set the tone.
Steven Bleile took it from there, striking out nine batters and allowing only three hits on the mound.
He had plenty of help at the plate, though, as Warrick finished a perfect 3-for-3, Herron 2-for-4, Todd Hatfield 2-for-4 and Robbie Skaggs 2-for-3.
"We have super chemistry on this team," said Butler. "There are no superstars and no attitudes. They just love to play the game."
The team will next head to North Charleston to represent South Carolina in the Dixie Majors World Series.