Recently, the Palmer Trinity Falcons Baseball team found themselves in the biggest game of the season against cross-town rival Westminster Christian School who are ranked number 7 in the state of Florida. The neighboring schools battled in the 2024 3A FHSAA (Florida High School Athletics Association) District Final Game. Despite playing to the best of their abilities, the team fell just short of clinching the district title; however, they were awarded the 2nd place runner up title.
Regardless of their loss in that game, the team reveled in what got them there, including beating out other teams in the district such as a 4-2 win against Ransom Everglades in the District Quarter Final Game and a 9-7 comeback win against Gulliver Prep in the District Semifinal Game after being down by 4 in the first 3 innings.This success led to the team making it to the 2024 3A Regional Playoffs where their first game will be played against Number 1 seed University School [away] on May 7 at 6:00pm.
This season, under the leadership of coach Howard Cuervo, the team has done exceptionally well reaching a record of 20 wins, 7 losses, and 1 tie. The team had many highlights over their regular season including traveling to Texas to compete in a national tournament and their 8-1 win against Ransom Everglades at FIU’s baseball stadium, Infinity Insurance Park. “Playing under the lights in a college stadium felt like a surreal moment and beating our rival school [Ransom] really added to the experience,” senior captain Andres Williams said.
One major thing that stands out for this Falcons team is their work ethic. Summer training , offseason weight room work, and in season practice has largely contributed to their success this season. Every swing of the bat, every pitch thrown, and every defensive play became a testament to the work they have put in. Senior Jake Font is also a testament to the adversity this team has faced. His personal resilience went into overcoming an offseason ACL injury, which to some would have grounded their senior season. But Font put countless hours into rehabilitating his knee so that he could be a help to his team in the playoffs. His time and effort paid off when he made a late game play which aided their win against Gulliver Prep. “I’m just happy to be back and help the team in any way,” Font said.
Beyond the wins and losses, it is the camaraderie and sense of unity that define the essence of this team. With team bonding activities and late night post-win dinners, the team has built a strong connection this year. From the senior leadership to the freshman getting their first taste of playoff baseball, each member of the Falcons roster contributes to the collective pursuit.
As they step onto the field for the Regional Playoffs, the Palmer Trinity Falcons are ready for it. Win or lose, their journey is a testament to teamwork, dedication, and their unwavering belief in each other.
