The Williams High School Vikings etched their names into Arizona High School baseball history Saturday, May 16, defeating Heber Mogollon 10-5 to claim the 1A state championship at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
It marked the program’s first state title after falling short in their only previous championship appearance in 1993. The victory also ended Hayden’s reign as three-time defending 1A champions, whom Williams had dispatched 2-1 in the semifinals.
The Vikings (23-7-1) trailed early but exploded for a decisive sixth inning that turned a close contest into a rout. Senior pitcher Mario Pedraza delivered a masterful performance on the mound, tossing six innings while allowing six hits, one earned run, and striking out five. Pedraza also contributed offensively with three RBIs.
Cade Trimble led the charge at the plate in the final, collecting three hits and driving in four runs as Williams pulled away. The Vikings’ balanced attack and resilient pitching staff proved too much for Mogollon.
Coach Ethan Johnson praised his team’s character throughout a grueling season.
“This group showed so much resilience, selflessness, and grit,” Johnson said. “The seniors dedicated their summers and winters to this, overcoming injuries like Mario’s broken hand earlier in the year. They truly earned this.”
The championship run highlighted a senior-led core that refused to be denied. After grinding through the regular season and navigating the demanding playoff bracket, Williams delivered when it mattered most on the state’s biggest stage.
For a small mountain community program, the title represents far more than a trophy. It caps years of dedication and marks a new high point for Williams High School athletics.
Congratulations poured in from across northern Arizona as the Vikings returned home as champions. The team will be celebrated in the coming days as the first 1A baseball state championship in school history.
