As postseason play begins, multiple teams in Northwest Indiana show promise as contenders for state titles. Crown Point, Chesterton, Andrean, and Kouts stand out.
Duneland Athletic Conference Strength
The Duneland Athletic Conference (DAC) has claimed the Class 4A state title for the past two seasons. Can the streak continue following Lake Central in 2024 and Valparaiso in 2025? Crown Point, with a 24-5 record, ranks third in the state coaches poll. Coach Steve Strayer noted the team’s strong start and subsequent midseason slump. Senior catcher/outfielder Sean Dunlap leads with a .471 batting average, tying for the state’s lead in home runs with nine.
Senior shortstop Caden Matusak, hitting .422, and junior Connor Gaines, batting .412, provide additional support. Senior pitcher Logan Johnston has a 6-2 record, 1.25 ERA, and 60 strikeouts over 44 2/3 innings.
No. 4 Chesterton (22-6) secured its first conference title since 2017. Coach John Bogner emphasized the importance of consistency in tournament play. Key players include Rob Czarniecki, a Kentucky recruit, batting .495, and Troy Barrett, a Purdue recruit, with an impressive 10-0 record, 0.48 ERA, and 89 strikeouts.
Valparaiso and Lake Central
No. 5 Valparaiso (20-7) aims to repeat last season’s success with DJ Malloy and Trent Gill leading the team. Lake Central (21-8) is preparing for its match against No. 9 Munster. Key player includes junior Brayden Walls, with a .449 batting average. Coach Mike Swartzentruber is optimistic about their capabilities.
Andrean’s Pursuit and Kouts’ Success
Andrean, ranked No. 1 in Class 3A, welcomes back Dave Pishkur to pursue a record 10th state title. Kouts, with a 25-1 record, leads the Class 1A poll and aims to build on last year’s state championship appearance. Key players like Billy Miller, hitting .479, and Landon Garrett, hitting .418, spearhead the effort.
Portage and Notable Players
Portage (14-14) seeks its first sectional title since 2013. They are motivated by a strong senior class. Coach Shane Prance aims to finish their varsity careers on a high note.
Pishkur and the Northwest Crossroads Conference co-champion 59ers (24-3, 10-2), who are ranked No. 1 in the Class 3A state coaches poll, will be pursuing their record 10th state title.
Notable players in the state include Nate Southwell, leading in RBIs, and Michael Stevens, fourth in batting average. Morgan Township’s Clint Lemmons excels in stolen bases, showcasing the talent across various teams.