Windermere, The First Academy baseball claim respective district titles

Two of Southwest Orange County’s top baseball programs continued their dominance as the postseason began, despite both teams having new coaches, by claiming another district championship to extend their respective streaks. 

In Class 7A, District 5, Windermere High — led by first-time head coach Brian Adkins — captured its fourth consecutive district title after a 5-1 win over area rivals Olympia. Leading the way for Windermere from the batter’s box was sophomore Diego Rodriguez, who went two-for-two with an RBI, run scored, two stolen bases and two walks. On the mound, sophomore Xavier Roman threw a complete game and allowed just one run and five hits, while adding four strikeouts.

Claiming its sixth consecutive district championship, The First Academy Royals topped Montverde Academy, 11-1, and again brought home the Class 2A, District 6 crown; the first for new coach Alan Kunkel with TFA. Senior Roy Rodriguez led the Royals' bats with two hits, five RBIs, one run scored and a sacrifice fly in the shortened, five-inning game.