News Summary

The Palisades Charter High School baseball team has persevered through a tumultuous season following the destructive Palisades fire. Despite displacement and playing on 15 different fields, the team finished strong with a 17-10 record. Their journey highlights resilience and community support in the face of adversity, as they continue to aim for future victories.

Resilient Palisades High School Baseball Team Triumphs Against All Odds

In the beautiful, sun-kissed city of Los Angeles, the Palisades Charter High School baseball team has shown what true resilience looks like. This season, these young athletes faced more challenges than most could even imagine. After their school was tragically destroyed in the devastating Palisades fire, they played a full season on the road. It was a season that could only be described as unconventional, filled with countless hurdles and inspiring moments.

Fire and Displacement

The Palisades fire raged on for 24 full days in January, laying waste to a staggering 6,837 structures in the area. Sadly, this included the beloved Palisades High School and its cherished baseball field. Along with their school, a significant number of families were displaced, with 15 of the 42 players in the baseball program affected. What was once a thriving community of students became a temporary home of uncertainty and disruption.

A Near Miracle

Despite all the adversity, completing the season was nothing short of a miracle, full of grit and determination. Head coach Mike Voelkel expressed that this season required a unique resilience from all players involved. This spirit of toughness was clearly visible on the field as the team held Senior Day at Fairfax High School, celebrating the incredible journeys of eight seniors whose experiences were disrupted not only by the fire but also by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The Road Goes On

With the school’s baseball field gone, the team had to get creative for their practices and games. The players trained in public parks and played at a whopping 15 different fields throughout the season. This constant shifting brought with it many logistical challenges. They faced missing equipment, game schedules that changed up to 12 times in just a few days, and even had to contend with transportation woes. Some games had to be held during school hours, adding to the team’s list of obstacles.

Finding Sanctuary

Throughout these extraordinary challenges, baseball became an invaluable sanctuary for their players. Senior Ian Sullivan, who lost his home in the fire, described how critical the game was for his well-being amid the chaos. For many players, including junior Jett Teegardin, who had to evacuate his home and moved his family’s belongings several times since the fire, the diamond offered a sense of stability and normalcy.

Record-Breaking Highlights

Amidst the hardships, the team managed to finish the regular season with a commendable 17-10 record. The players even celebrated a fantastic mercy rule victory against the Fairfax Lions, one for the books. A standout moment came when Senior Roman Hawk smashed a home run that was estimated to soar around 370 feet—a massive boost for a team navigating such difficult waters.

Uncertain Future

While the team triumphs on the field, the future remains uncertain. Students from Palisades High School currently attend classes in an old Sears building due to the loss of their school. Plans are in place for the Los Angeles Unified School District to remove the temporary structures and begin reconstructing the baseball field by 2029. However, coach Voelkel worries about the implications for the baseball program, as the lack of a home field may cost them players and support.

Community Support Shines

Through every setback, the community of Los Angeles has rallied around the Palisades baseball team, offering unwavering support as they forge ahead. Inspired by a pep talk from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, the team continues to look forward with hope and determination. The players aspire to return to Dodger Stadium for the City Section finals, where they would celebrate not only their competitive spirit but also their strength against adversity.

In these trying times, the Palisades Charter High School baseball team encapsulates what it means to persevere. As they navigate their uncertain future, their experiences remind us of the power of unity and resilience in the face of incredible challenges.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Great Falls Community Rallies for High School Baseball Program
High School Baseball Rankings Update: Playoffs Roundup May 12, 2025
Palisades High School Baseball Team Overcomes Challenges
High School Softball City Section Shines with Stellar Performances
Manhattan Beach Mourns Loss of Local Tennis Star
High School Sports Weekend Showcases Local Talent
University High Lacrosse Faces Forfeit Due to Prom Conflict
High School Baseball and Softball Roundup: Competitive Action
High School Baseball and Softball Scores from Monday
High School Baseball and Softball Scores Ignite Monday Nights

Additional Resources