Valdosta 'Cats End Richmond Hill Hex with Bounds' Two Home Runs

Catcher Matt Bounds hits two solo shots to power Valdosta to victory over longtime rival Richmond Hill.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 3:10am

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In a Region 1-6A baseball matchup, the Valdosta High School 'Cats defeated the Richmond Hill Wildcats on Tuesday, March 17, thanks to a standout performance by catcher Matt Bounds. Bounds hit two solo home runs, one in the bottom of the first inning and another later in the game, to lead Valdosta to victory and end their hex against their longtime rival.

Why it matters

Valdosta and Richmond Hill have had a long-standing rivalry in high school baseball, with Richmond Hill holding an advantage in recent years. Bounds' heroics helped the 'Cats finally break through against their nemesis, a significant win that could provide momentum as they look to make a deep playoff run.

The details

Bounds' first home run came in the bottom of the first inning, when he launched a solo shot deep to center field to give Valdosta an early lead. He then added another solo homer later in the game to provide some insurance for the 'Cats. Valdosta's pitching and defense held strong throughout to preserve the victory.

  • The game took place on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
  • Bounds hit his first home run in the bottom of the first inning.

The players

Matt Bounds

The catcher for the Valdosta High School baseball team, who hit two crucial home runs to lead his team to victory over their rival Richmond Hill.

Valdosta High School

The high school baseball team that defeated their longtime rival Richmond Hill, ending a recent hex that Richmond Hill had held over them.

Richmond Hill

The high school baseball team that has had an advantage over Valdosta in recent years, but was defeated in this latest matchup.

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The takeaway

Bounds' heroics in this game show the importance of having a clutch player who can step up in big moments to lead their team to victory, especially against a longtime rival. This win could provide a much-needed confidence boost for the Valdosta 'Cats as they look to make a deep playoff run.