Banning High Baseball Team Wins Hard-Earned Game At Angel Stadium

BANNING, CA — Beneath the lights of the iconic Angel Stadium, the Banning High School Broncos baseball team scored a 1-0 victory against rivals the Arroyo Valley High School Hawks on Wednesday.

The game was a "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity for the student players to compete on a Major League Baseball field with professional league referees.

The experience was made possible through fundraising by the Banning and San Bernardino County teams as well as the support of school leadership.

“This was a great experience for the boys. They will remember this for the rest of their lives,” said Banning Head Coach Jake Knesel. “To be given an opportunity to play in a professional stadium is something that many will never get to experience. We would all like to thank Brandon Mason and everyone else involved who helped make this happen.”

The coaching staff for the day included Knesel, Alex Ward, pitching coach, John Lara II, 1st base coach, Joe Conner, JV coach and Keawepoho Fragas, JV coach.

On game day, March 26, the stands were packed with families, staff and community members. Attendees were on the edge of their seats as the game remained scoreless until the seventh inning. That's when #5 Trevor Eisman made a winning play that carried the Bronco's to their victory.

"With a final score of 1-0, the energy on the field and in the stands was electric," according to the Banning Unified School District.

Throughout the day, the student-athletes were treated like professional ones. Players sat in the dugout and worked alongside stadium staff.

“This was more than just a game — it was an experience,” said Brandon Mason, Athletic Director at Banning High School. “Our coaches, players, and community came together to make something special happen.”