CLEVELAND — It's been three decades since Shelbyville Central's Golden Eagles have advanced to the Sectional round in baseball.
In 1993 the Golden Eagles advanced to what was then called the sub-state and were defeated by Bradley Central in a close contest.
On Sunday afternoon, the Golden Eagles defeated Bradley Central 3-2 to finish runner up in the Region 3 4-A Tournament and earn a berth to the sectional round.
Shelbyville Central will face talented Stewarts Creek on the road in a best two of three series.
Date and times will be determined.
"I'm not sure that proud is a strong enough word to describe how I feel about this group of young men. The thing that I'm most proud of is how they have done it. They have bought everything we have done and have worked their absolute tails off," second-year Shelbyville Central coach Chase Jones said. "They have also represented our school and community with ultimate class. We had numerous Bradley (Central) parents and fans come up after the game telling us what class our players showed. That says everything about our guys."
Sophomore Palmer Edwards got the start and the win on the mound going 4 2/3 innings and only allowing a pair of runs.
Junior Carston Williams closed out the game without a flaw, striking out three with no walks, hits or runs.
Sophomore lead-off hitter William Bobo and senior Jaquai Beverly each ripped two doubles to lead the winners at the plate while Mason Shavers and Marquis Wilson each added a single.
Center-fielder Kyler Trice made a huge throw to home plate and Shavers put on a nice tag to a run saving play that proved to be a crucial play of the game.
“We might not be the most talented team left in 4-A baseball, but I promise you nobody has more heart than our guys. I absolutely love this group of young men.  I fully believe God put me in their path for a reason," Jones said.
"I've said it several times, they have done much more for me than I ever could do for them."
Assistant coach Jason Williams also praised the team.
"This is a result of our guys loving the game and loving each other. It shows in their approach to the game, in their composure, and their want to win."

Shelbyville Central     100 020 0 — 3   6   0
Bradley Central          000 020 0 — 2   4   2

Shelbyville Central: William Bobo 2-for-4, Beverly 2-for-4, Mason Shavers 1-for-3, Marquis Wilson 1-for-3.
Bradley Central: Seth Adams 1-for-3, Tito Williams 1-for-2, Spane Bristol 1-for-3, Taylor Duggan 1-for-3.
WP: Edwards
LP: Leek