Andrean’s Journey and Defeat in Class 3A State Championship

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Andrean High School junior Chase Nelson offered a perspective after a tornado damaged their school and field on June 11. The bigger issue now was the community’s recovery, not just the Class 3A state championship outcome. ‘It’s been sad,’ Nelson said. ‘But we got closer as a team wanting to do it for the school and the community. We got here but couldn’t do it.’

The 59ers, ranked first, failed to clinch a record 10th title, losing 9-3 to second-ranked Guerin at Victory Field. Guerin celebrated its first state championship victory. Andrean coach Dave Pishkur praised Guerin, admitting they were the superior team with better pitching and hitting.

‘First and foremost, all the credit to that team,’ Pishkur remarked. ‘They were the better team today. There’s no doubt.’

Nelson contributed for Andrean, finishing 2-for-4 with a run-scoring single in the third inning. Defensively, he was strong at third base, catching challenging balls in the fifth and sixth innings. On the mound, he didn’t allow an earned run over two innings. Despite using five pitchers, Andrean’s pitching performance was mixed. ‘We’re here because of our pitching, but we walked nine and hit three – worst we’ve been all year,’ Pishkur noted.

Guerin’s Tate Troxell, an Alabama recruit, allowed one run on four hits and struck out 12. ‘He’s the hardest thrower we faced in terms of velocity,’ Pishkur said. Nelson’s brother, Tyler, was a 2018 and 2019 state champion, adding a family legacy to Andrean’s achievements.

Reflecting on the experience, Nelson valued playing in front of a large crowd despite the pressure. ‘It’s great,’ he shared. ‘You have to block out all the outside noise.’

Despite their efforts, including a two-run double from senior Luke Goben, the team struggled with recent challenges. ‘It was no excuse,’ Pishkur explained. ‘Losing our field, different practice locations… we just weren’t going to beat those guys today.’

Looking ahead, Andrean will move to Class 4A next season. Pishkur acknowledged the challenge. ‘We’ll need to improve,’ he said. ‘Next man up is our program’s motto. Some sophomores are ready. It’s a tougher class, but we’ll coach up and be better.’