The Russell County Middle School baseball team captured the 16th district crown after defeating Clinton County and Cumberland County handily on Saturday afternoon at Laker Field.

In the first game the Lakers defeated the Bulldogs 11-0. Laker pitcher Grant Best did not give up a run while striking out 10, only walking one and giving up just two hits.

Best was also 2-2 from the plate with a single, triple and 3 RBIs. Taylor Grider was 2-3 with a single, triple and two RBIs. Cody McElroy also had one RBI for Russell County.

In the second game, which served as the district title game, the young Lakers defeated the visiting Panthers 13-2. Taylor Grider picked up the win on the mound as he struck out four and gave up just two runs on two hits. Ethan Selby was 2-3 with a single, double and one RBI at the plate. Dylan Kerr was 1-2 with a triple and two RBI, Evan Roy was 2-3 with three singles and two RBI and Cody McElroy was 1-2 with a double and three RBI.

"I am very proud of the boys, they came ready and played solid defense all day," said RCMS coach Steve Kinder. "Grant Best was great on the mound first game and the team played great behind him with only one error. As for game two, Taylor pitched a great game as well keeping the ball low and allowing the defense behind him to make the plays. Ethan Selby was strong at the plate in game two and Cody McElroy delivered his double with the bases loaded.  This was a total team effort; in fact that has been our trademark for the year. I am very proud of all of the boys for a great season."

The Lakers finish the season with a 12-7 overall record.