Lakeside Christian Wins Conference Tournament Title

The SSAA tournament champion Lakeside Christian Lions. *Photo from @LakesideChristianSchool.

The Lakeside Christian Lions have been playing their best baseball of the season coming down the stretch run of the regular season. This past weekend the Lions continued their strong play by winning both their tournament games to claim the Sunshine State Conference tournament championship.

Lakeside Christian cruised past City of Life for an 11-1 semifinal victory behind a no-hitter from Gavin Cappiello, and then the offense did its part by slugging the Lions to a 19-14 decision over Calvary Chapel in the finale. Chris Pena paced the offense in the title game, going 2-for-3 with three RBI and two runs.

The Lions (8-8-1) got offensive contributions from the entire lineup in the championship. Paul Benetis and Daniel Darretta both drove in two runs each, and Darrette also scored three times. Mike Coffman, Dominic Ludovic, Cal Richey, Colton Richey and Peyton Rochell all scored two runs apiece.

Lakeside Christian honored both seniors this week. *Photo from @LakesideChristianSchool.

*Photo from @LakesideChristianSchool.

The Lions extended their winning streak to five games with the tournament results. Although that streak was snapped the next time out in a tough match up against the Keswick Christian Crusaders, the Lions rebounded to maintain their momentum. Lakeside Christian finished in a 7-7 tie with Sarasota Christian, before then claiming a 12-0 shutout over the Gibbs Gladiators.

Thursday’s victory provided the perfect conclusion, after the team honored both of its seniors with a Senior Night ceremony prior to the game. Seniors Colton Richey and Matthew Miller celebrated their high school careers with their family, teammates, coaches and fans. Colton Richey also led the offense on the afternoon, going 2-for-3 with a double, four RBI and a run.

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