(7-16-24) It took 8 innings but the Minster Wildcats would score 3 runs in the top of the inning to beat Van Wert and win their first ever State ACME Title last night in Coldwater 3-0.

What turned out to be the winning run…Minster’ centerfielder ‘s Caleb Couse lined a single to left that scored pinch runner Chase Dirksen. Two insurance runs would follow thanks to base hits from Connor Schmiesing and Rylan Edwards.

Minster starting pitcher James Niemeyer went eight innings, allowing just two hits, struck out 12, walked four and hit a batter. Niemeyer was named the tournament MVP.

Van Wert’s Hayden Dowler went 7 1/3 innings before being replaced…he was charged with the three runs that scored…he gave up three hits, struck out two and walked two.

ACME: Minster Tops Van Wert in Extras for State Title

Hometown Stations – You Tube Video

Both teams advanced to the final game with semi-final wins earlier in the day….Minster beat Defiance 3-2 in 8 innings in a suspended game from Sunday due to weather, while Van Wert beat defending State Champion Indiana Lake 2-1.

2024 ACME State All Tournament Team

  • Minster – James Niemeyer (MVP)
  • Defiance – Brady Borton
  • Indian Lake – Griffin Schaub
  • Van Wert – Hayden Davis
  • Van Wert – Briston Wise
  • Van Wert – Hayden Dowler
  • Minster – Louis Magoto
  • Minster – Ryan Edwards
  • Minster – Andrew Wiss