CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. — The 2026 Catawba County Easter Baseball Classic presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods once again provided more than just competitive baseball for local high school programs. Through the Dick’s Sporting Goods Sports Matter Grant, a total of $8,000 was distributed to the eight participating schools, with each school receiving a $1,000 grant to support their athletic programs.
The Sports Matter Grant funding ensured that every school competing in the tournament received direct financial support for their athletic departments, reinforcing the event’s mission of supporting and strengthening high school athletics across Catawba County and the surrounding region.
On the field, Alexander Central High School captured its second consecutive tournament championship with a victory over Newton-Conover High School in the title game. St. Stephens High School defeated Hickory High School in the consolation game to claim third place.
Alexander Central’s Jude Carter was named the Tournament Most Valuable Player following an outstanding performance throughout the event. Carter went 7-for-8 at the plate with three doubles and seven RBIs, while also pitching four shutout innings in Alexander Central’s second game.
In addition to the Sports Matter Grant funding, the support of sponsors Southeast Retirement Planners and the Hickory Crawdads helped offset tournament expenses, allowing the majority of gate proceeds to be distributed among the participating teams.
The Catawba County Easter Baseball Classic continues to provide meaningful opportunities for student-athletes to compete while also generating financial support for local high school athletic programs through strong community partnerships.
Tournament organizers thanked the participating schools, players, coaches, fans, and sponsors for helping make the 2026 Catawba County Easter Baseball Classic presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods another successful event.
For additional information about the Catawba County Easter Baseball Classic, please contact tournament co-organizer Les Stewart at 828-320-9231.
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