Wrapping Up the 2025–26 School Year

35 State Finals and a Year Full of Memories

As the 2025–26 school year comes to a close, I can't help but reflect on what an incredible year it has been. From the first kickoff in August to the final out of the baseball state championship in June, this season was filled with unforgettable moments, incredible athletes, and stories that I was honored to capture.

I've spent the summer taking some much-needed time to recharge, travel, and enjoy time with family, but as the new school year approaches, I'm ready to be back on the sidelines. There's nothing quite like the excitement of a new season, the anticipation of the first game, and the opportunity to continue telling the stories of athletes and communities across Indiana.

This year was especially memorable because of the amount of postseason coverage I was able to be a part of. Throughout the 2025–26 school year, I had the opportunity to photograph:

23 Sectionals
11 Regionals
8 Semi-States
22 State Finals

By the time the final pitch was thrown at the IHSAA Baseball State Finals at Victory Field in Indianapolis, I had officially covered my 35th State Final in my photography career. That number is something I don't take for granted. Every State Final represents more than just a game. It represents countless miles traveled, early mornings, late nights editing, meeting new athletes and families, and being trusted to preserve some of the biggest moments in their lives.

The State Finals are always some of my favorite events to cover. I love getting to meet schools from all over Indiana, learn their stories, and watch athletes achieve something they have worked toward their entire careers. Many times, the teams I photograph during the regular season are the same teams I see competing for championships, which makes those final moments even more special.

Baseball & Softball State Finals

The final stop of the year brought me to the Baseball and Softball State Finals. Baseball was held at Victory Field in Indianapolis, while softball took place at Bittinger Stadium in West Lafayette. Both venues provided an incredible stage for Indiana's best teams to compete for a state championship.

The Softball State Finals were especially meaningful this year because two local programs brought home state titles. Barr-Reeve captured the Class 1A State Championship, while Tecumseh won the Class 2A State Championship.

Barr-Reeve's championship was particularly special for me. I had the privilege of covering the Vikings three different times throughout the school year: volleyball, basketball, and softball. Being able to document their journey across multiple sports allowed me to build relationships with the athletes, coaches, and families. Seeing them finish the year by winning a state championship and capturing those celebration moments was something I'll always remember.

Baseball was also unforgettable with Northeast Dubois making program history by reaching the Class 1A State Championship game for the first time ever. While they came up short of a state title, their accomplishment was something their community should be incredibly proud of.

That game was extra special for me because my cousin plays first base for Northeast Dubois. Having family on the field while I was behind the camera made the experience even more meaningful. Being able to capture those memories for my family while documenting a historic moment for the program is something I will always cherish.

The future is also bright for Northeast Dubois. With only one senior graduating, this team will return a strong group next season and has the potential to make another deep postseason run.

Looking back on this year, the biggest thing I take away isn't just the number of games or championships covered, it's the relationships built along the way. The athletes, coaches, parents, and communities are what make this job so special.

Thank you to every school, athlete, family, and community that welcomed me throughout the year. Thank you to Indiana Preps Sports Network for trusting me with the opportunity to cover some of Indiana's biggest events.