City of Chicago Heights Honors State Champion Marian Catholic Baseball Team

It’s not often that 17 high school baseball players receive a standing ovation in front of the Chicago Heights City Council. 

Monday, the City of Chicago Heights took a moment to honor the Spartans, who won the IHSA Class 3A Baseball State Championship for the first time in the school’s history Saturday, June 9.

Mayor David Gonzalez presented the Spartans with two plaques at as a room full of Chicago Heights residents and officials applauded the team’s success.

“It’s great to see a school in Chicago Heights go all the way,” Gonzalez said. “Congratulations, guys.”

Coach Phil Wail thanked the City and recognized the efforts of each member of the team. He also acknowledged the support of Marian’s administration, including Athletic Director Kevin Kelly, President Judine Hilbing and Vice President for Instructional and Student Activities Kathleen Anne Tait.

Gonzalez said he received a call Sunday, June 10, from an excited Jim Dee, who was captain of the varsity baseball team during his days at Marian. Gonzalez invited the proud treasurer to be photographed with the team. 

The Spartans worked hard for the state title, enduring 17 losses during the season but continuing to power through to the end to defeat LaSalle-Peru (34-7) in the finals. 

The team consisted of 23 players, including nine seniors, 12 juniors and two sophomores.