The Post 22 Hardhats are champions.
After battling through a tough tournament, the Hardhats capped off an impressive run with an 8-3 victory over 18U Sioux Falls West in the championship game Saturday at Fitzgerald Stadium. The win was powered by aggressive base running, timely hitting, and relentless energy from both the players and the crowd.
From the opening pitch, the atmosphere felt like a championship game. The stands were packed and loud, while the Hardhats’ dugout brought nonstop energy, cheering on every pitch and every play. The excitement never faded as Post 22 battled its way to the title.
SF West struck first with a run in the opening inning, but the Hardhats stayed calm and trusted each other. Their patience paid off in the bottom of the third inning. Lars Kieffer #19 started the rally with a single that scored jaxson Reeder #3 and moved Wyatt Reeder #18 to third base. Moments later, Wyatt Reeder showed why he was one of the biggest difference-makers of the game, stealing home safely to even the score and shift the momentum in Post 22’s favor.
Speed was a major weapon for the Hardhats all game long. Wyatt Reeder stole third base in the first inning, later stole second, and twice stole home safely. Reagan Koskan #20 also stole second base, keeping constant pressure on the SF West defense.
The championship was all but secured during a huge fifth inning when the Hardhats scored four runs. Brixton Steen #13 delivered a single that brought Wyatt Reeder home. Kain McLeod #2 followed with another RBI single, scoring Reagan Koskan before stealing second base himself. A few batters later, Hudson Ogle #9 came through with a clutch single that scored both Hadley Burrus #14 and Kain McLeod #2, giving the Hardhats a commanding lead.
Post 22 added another two runs in the sixth inning to put the game out of reach. Reagan Koskan singled and stretched it into a double, advancing Wyatt Reeder to third while bringing Jaxson Reeder home safely. Once again, Wyatt Reeder stole home, capping off an incredible performance and giving the Hardhats their eighth run.
The Hardhats finished the game with eight runs on seven hits, while SF West recorded three runs on five hits. Post 22 committed just one error, compared to two errors by SF West.
Wyatt Reeder was the clear standout of the championship game. His speed on the bases created scoring opportunities all afternoon, and his aggressive play energized both his teammates and the fans. For his outstanding performance, he was named the team’s Most Valuable Player and also received the Big Stick Award.
Winning a championship takes more than talent—it takes teamwork, determination, and heart. The Hardhats showed all three throughout the game, never backing down after falling behind early. Their aggressive approach on the bases, timely hitting, and strong defensive effort helped secure the championship trophy.
As the final out was recorded, players celebrated on the field while fans applauded from the stands. It was a well-earned championship for the Post 22 Hardhats, who finished the tournament in unforgettable fashion with an exciting 8-3 victory over SF West at Fitzgerald Stadium.
