For most programs, seven state titles since 2015 and nine state tournament appearances in the last 12 seasons would feel like a job well done. Newman Catholic baseball is not most programs.

“When you go to four in a row it starts to become an expectation,” said head coach Alex Bohl. “You feel like if you don't get to the championship the season's almost a failure.”

SOFTBALL – TIC EAST

One big inning was too much to overcome for the Central Springs softball team in their Class 2A-Region 8 playoff game against West Fork. The Warhawks broke open a close game with seven runs in the sixth inning as they beat Central Springs 10-2 ending the Panthers season on July 6.

The future looks bright for the Rockford softball team but more importantly the present season is alive and well. Freshman Harper Hillman hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the sixth to tie the Warriors district playoff game against Northwood-Kensett and in extra innings eight grader Callie Ginther started the inning with a single and scored the winning run as Rockford won 6-5.