Kellogg CC wins region, punches ticket for NJCAA Division II World Series

JACKSON — Kellogg Community College is heading back to the World Series.

No. 16-ranked KCC defeated host Jackson, 16-0, in the National Junior College Athletic Association Region XII baseball championships on Saturday as the Bruins clinched a spot in the 2024 NJCAA Division II World Series in Enid, Oklahoma.

It marks the first World Series berth for the Bruins since 2021.

"This is very exciting. This group has come a long ways. It is a testament to our sophomores. We were able to finish off this championship with a win over Jackson to send us back to Enid," KCC coach Eric Laskovy said.

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KCC trailed Grand Rapids Community College early in the semifinals before rallying to win 14-6 on Friday. Then, the Bruins' one-sided win over Jackson on Saturday punched their ticket.

"Jackson was coming out of the loser's bracket and had a little trouble with their pitching. Our guys came out and did what they needed to do and put it to bed," Laskovy said.

This is the seventh National Junior College Athletic Association Region XII Championship and will be the seventh appearance in the NJCAA Division II World Series. During that run, KCC finished second in the nation in 2007 and third in 2021.

"They are very aware of the tradition at KCC. When they come to KCC, they know they are going to be playing meaningful games," Laskovy said. "But at the end of the day, it is very hard to go to the World Series, and the guys have to step up at the right time. I'm very proud of our group for getting it done."

This article originally appeared on Battle Creek Enquirer: Kellogg CC wins region, advances to NJCAA Division II World Series