ND seeks spot in Class 3 final

The Notre Dame Bulldogs head to the Class 3 final four this weekend to try to win their first state championship in more than 15 years.

The top-ranked Bulldogs (27-1) will take on the Harrisonville Wildcats (23-6) in the state semifinals at 4 p.m. today at Meador Park in Springfield.

Harrisonville has scored 15 or more runs in seven games this season.

"They have great offensive numbers," Notre Dame coach Jeff Graviett said. "We expect them to come out swinging, but we have a good pitching staff."

Either senior Dylan Drury or junior Colton Young will start on the mound against the Wildcats. The right-handers lead the team with 10 wins apiece.

Notre Dame senior Dylan Drury is 10-0 entering the Class 3 final four. Either Drury or junior Colton Young will start today's semifinal game against Harrisonville. (Elizabeth Dodd)

This will be Harrisonville's first trip to the final four, but the Bulldogs aren't taking them lightly.

"I really don't know much about them except they have several hitters hitting around .400," Young said.

Going into districts, Harrisonville had four players batting higher than .433.

Notre Dame has an advantage when it comes to playing in big games, with numerous players familiar with the stage. This is the Bulldogs' second straight trip to Springfield, and several players have reached the final four in other sports.

"I think it's a huge advantage," Graviett said. "Our kids are battle tested to be ready and play."

Last season the Bulldogs came up short in their title hopes. They lost to eventual champion St. Dominic in the semifinals, giving up 19 runs in the bottom of the sixth inning.

Despite the loss, Young said last year's experience should help the team.

"I hope so, we've been through it before," Young said. "Our experience will be a little something extra to help us win the title."

Graviett said his team must stay focused to be successful.

"We have to keep our composure," he said. "Our expectations are to go there and win it."

Today's winner will face either Fulton or Carl Juntion in Saturday's championship game.

Graviett says a state title would be huge for both players and coaches.

"This is something I have dreamed about since I was a little kid," Graviett said. "I always wanted to be a part of a state championship."