Mater Academy Lions Celebrate First State Title with Marlins' Honor

Fort Myers, Florida, USA - On June 6, 2025, the atmosphere at loanDepot park was electric as the Miami Marlins honored the Mater Academy Charter Lions, recently crowned the FHSAA Class 5A State Champions in baseball. This victory marks a significant milestone for the team, as it is their first state title since 2014. The recognition ceremony was a proud moment, showcasing the exceptional talent and hard work of the young athletes.

The players who formed this championship-winning team were celebrated for their achievements, including Jacob Amador, Bryan Aritta, Christian Alvarez, and many others, totaling fifteen outstanding individuals. The coaching staff, led by Head Coach Humberto Bencomo, ensured the team was prepared for the challenges they faced during the tournament, which culminated in their triumphant win over Wesley Chapel.

Championship Journey

The road to the championship was paved with intense competition. In the semifinals held on May 15 at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, the Mater Academy Lions faced off against the Fort Myers Green Wave. Despite a slow start where Fort Myers took the lead with five runs, Mater Academy’s resilience shone through. They turned the game around in the fifth inning, scoring seven runs and ultimately winning 8-5. Vladil Baldepina’s stellar performance pitched 4.1 innings, allowing only one run while striking out seven batters, showcasing why he is a player to watch.

On May 17, optimism was high as Mater Academy entered the championship match against Wesley Chapel. Starting strong, they scored three runs in the first inning, adding another in the second to take a commanding 4-0 lead. The final score of 6-1 for Mater Academy highlighted their dominance, with Alfrin Rosario pitching an impressive 6.1 innings, yielding just one run. Bryan Arrieta put forth a strong offensive display with two RBIs, cementing the team’s title as champions.

A Community Celebration

This championship win is not only a testament to the players‘ talents but also a celebration for the Mater Academy community. The event at loanDepot park was a charming way to acknowledge the team’s hard-fought success. The young athletes were joined by their families, friends, and supporters, adding a personal touch to the recognition. The event emphasized the importance of teamwork and community support that underpins such victories.

As the baseball season wraps up, fans should keep an eye on the future talent emerging from the FHSAA leagues. The 2025 FHSAA Baseball State Championships continue to bring excitement to locations like Fort Myers, where facilities such as batting cages are available for practice, with transportation services ensuring smooth travel for participants. This sense of community and dedication undoubtedly fosters the next generation of champions.

In the grand tapestry of high school athletics, this year’s FHSAA Class 5A State Championship will surely be remembered not just for the win, but for the camaraderie and spirit that such events inspire. Kudos to the Mater Academy Charter Lions for their phenomenal achievement!

For further details, you can read the full stories on the recognition by the Miami Marlins through Community Newspapers and their championship journey detailed in the recap on Prep Baseball Report. To learn more about the state tournament facilities and transportation options, check out Travel Sports.