WESTLOCK — The Westlock Red Lions are once again champions.
In a year that had its share of ups and downs, including the recent passing of former long-time resident and Keller Field namesake, Chuck Keller, the Red Lions stuck together and persevered to win their 19th North Central Alberta Baseball League (NCABL) title and championship Aug. 24, fittingly, at home on Keller Field.
After defeating the second-seeded St. Albert Cardinals in the semi-finals in two straight games in early August, the club continued its winning streak in the championship series, against the league pennant winner, Parkland Twins (16-3-1) with a 13-6 victory Aug. 23, and a nail-biting 1-0 win Aug. 24.
It was the crowning glory for the Red Lions, captured their first NCABL championship since 2017 after finishing third in the regular season standings.
“In the first game we came out with our bats, we hit the ball hard and we played some good defence. Corson (Hanlan) came and threw a hell of a game for us there,” said Red Lions general manager Jordan Brand, noting the battle in game two. “They had some momentum, then we got some momentum back. It was fun, it was a lot of fun.”
Brand pointed out the toughness his team showed in “getting over the enemy” in the finals.
“It’s been a long time. It’s also been a long five years of being in the final so it’s good to pull the trigger, finally. It just feels real good.”
League commissioner Paul Riopel talked about the Red Lions’ fierce determination in the finals and highlighted championship series MVP Jordan Brand’s stellar performance as pitcher. He said they have proven to be "one of the most resilient teams in the NCABL.”
“They’ve always played good, sound, fundamental baseball and this year, with a brand-new crop of young talent they have come into their own,” said Riopel.
“We were treated today (Aug. 24) to a classic game of baseball. Some of the best defensive plays I have ever seen,” he said, pointing out reverse double plays, catches in the outfield and a particular double play from an outfield throw that impacted the game.
“Keeping the team stable and keeping the team alert, was of course, their man on the heel, Jordan Brand, who today was well deserving of the most valuable player in the league championship series,” he said.
Red Lions rookie Travis Wagner was the sole runner to make it home during Game 2 and was a bit shocked at his big contribution to the team’s 1-0 victory.
“It feels pretty good,” said Wagner, adding the close-knit team stayed focused on the task at hand in the finals. “We wanted to come here, play some baseball, have some fun and win at the same time too.”
