In 2012, the Catawba College baseball team made history by reaching the Division II World Series for the first time. Since then, they have returned to Cary, N.C., for the fourth time. Head coach Jim Gantt expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete at this level, acknowledging the element of luck in reaching the World Series. The team’s goal is not only to participate but also to win the championship.
This year’s trip to the World Series is significant for the current roster, as no player has experienced this stage with Catawba College before. Despite the pressure, the players feel prepared for the challenge, understanding that it ultimately comes down to playing the game of baseball.
In 2015, when Catawba College finished as runners-up, they had standout players like Craig Brooks and Will Alberston. However, this year’s team lacks that star power, which Gantt believes has actually been a strength. The players have embraced a team-first mentality, focusing on what’s best for the group rather than individual accolades.
For catcher Bo Rusher III, a Salisbury native and transfer player, the trip to the World Series is particularly meaningful. He comes from a family with deep ties to Catawba College athletics, and he sees this opportunity as a chance to bring a championship back to his hometown. The team enters the Division II World Series as the No. 3 seed and will face off against Southern New Hampshire in their opening game.
As they prepare to take
