RICHMOND, Va. -- Godwin High School defeated Midlothian High School in a Class 5 regional baseball game on Wednesday to earn a spot in the state baseball tournament.
In the bottom of the eighth inning, Dylan Hudson hit a walk-off, bases-loaded single to score the game-winning run.
The Godwin Eagles won the game 6 to 5.
“We are excited for our opportunity to compete in the State tournament next week, and look forward to Friday night's game vs Freeman in the regional championship," Godwin baseball coach Josh Gentry said. "The guys have been finding new ways to win each game and we hope to continue that trend. I think we still have some magic in our hats.”
Gentry also took time to shine a light on a poignant moment that occurred after the winning run scored.
"If you want to see what high school sports are all about, go watch the last play," he said. "The catcher [Cole Caffall], who played an incredible game for Midlothian, walked over to his pitcher [Spencer Lloyd] and hugged him. Sometimes, in the midst of wins and losses, things happen that we tend to overlook, but are the most important part of the game. That moment should be applauded, and his parents should be extremely proud of him. The kid from Midlo and his love for his teammate embodies everything we try to teach. Love each other through it all."
Comments left on CBS 6 social media have praised the students and their actions.
"What a wonderful young man, so loving and mature, seeing what really matters in life," Beth Lauer commented on the CBS 6 Facebook page. " I applaud the opposing team’s coach for making a statement about this!"
"Cole is an amazing catcher and fantastic kid," Katy Mustian added. "The pep talks he gave Spencer on the mound were always uplifting. Spencer was lucky to have him as his catcher this year. Cole has a bright future ahead of him on the baseball field, in the classroom and in life."
"This is why you take them to every practice and every game," Mark Bentley wrote. "To watch them develop into human beings, and occasionally ball players."
"This is what high school sports can do for young people!" Sherry Driskill wrote. "Those young men in that pic will remember the friendships they made more than all the stats! Thanks CBS 6 for still supporting and covering LOCAL sports and athletes! No other station does!"
CBS 6 provides Central Virginia with the only local TV sports coverage in town. Depend on Lane Casadonte and Sean Robertson for the most complete local sports coverage.
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