![The Fairfax Stars are all smiles as they pose with the IABA state championship trophy after downing defending champion Red Top, 5-4, in the championship game on Sunday in Norway. (MSR photo by Ken Gilchrist)](/images/resized/images/photos/ivl/08_13_2017_ivl1_thumb200__200_128.jpg)
Fairfax claims IABA state title
NORWAY - Many of them have followed different paths since they played baseball at Kennedy High School, but one thing has remained the same for these former Cougars.
They are still winners.
The Fairfax Stars, boasting a lineup stuffed with Kennedy grads, captured the Iowa Amateur Baseball Association state title Sunday with a 5-4 victory over Red Top in the championship game at Norway.
It's believed to be the first state title for Fairfax, according to tournament directors, and it came with nine Kennedy products on their postseason roster.
They cut their teeth as baseball players for Kennedy Coach Bret Hoyer, who has run one of the best programs in the state for 25 years.
"We learned how to play the game the right way," said Cody Bell, the tournament MVP. "Never get down on yourself.
"It's kind of just togetherness. We stuck together the entire season."
Fairfax ran away with the Iowa Valley League title this season, then compiled a perfect 6-0 record in the state tournament with a string of clutch victories along the way.
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