South Ridge Baseball Sweeps Season Opener

Defending section champions start 2026 campaign with two wins over Heritage Christian Academy

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:06am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a high school baseball game, with the field, players, and equipment broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes of vibrant colors.South Ridge's season-opening sweep demonstrates their championship-caliber talent and team chemistry.Maple Grove Today

The South Ridge baseball team, coming off a Section 7A title last season, opened the 2026 campaign with a confident doubleheader sweep of Heritage Christian Academy on Thursday in Maple Grove, Minnesota. Gavin Willeck tossed a three-hit complete game in the 4-1 win, while the Panthers scored 8 runs in the second game to take an 8-5 victory.

Why it matters

South Ridge is looking to build on its success from last year and prove it can remain a top contender in Section 7A. The early season sweep over a quality opponent like Heritage Christian Academy suggests the Panthers have the talent and momentum to make another deep playoff run.

The details

In the first game, Gavin Willeck dominated on the mound for South Ridge, allowing just 3 hits and 1 run over 7 innings. The Panthers provided just enough offense to support Willeck, scoring 4 runs. In the nightcap, South Ridge's bats came alive as they plated 8 runs to win 8-5 and complete the sweep.

  • The doubleheader took place on Thursday, April 10, 2026 in Maple Grove, Minnesota.

The players

Gavin Willeck

The starting pitcher for South Ridge in the first game, tossing a complete game 3-hit victory.

South Ridge

The defending Section 7A high school baseball champions who opened the 2026 season with a doubleheader sweep.

Heritage Christian Academy

The opponent for South Ridge in the season-opening doubleheader, losing both games.

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The takeaway

South Ridge's dominant start to the 2026 season suggests the defending section champions have the pitching, hitting, and overall talent to remain a top contender in the region and potentially make another deep playoff run.