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Your contribution fuels the stories that shape Decorah—make a difference today. DECORAH — Thanks to a high-heat opener and an awesome pitching performance at the game's nightcap, Decorah swept New Hampton in a doubleheader Thursday to clinch its first Northeast Iowa Conference baseball title since 2021—and the 21st in program history. With the NEIC dissolving after this season, the title marks a historic end to the league for the Vikings. Game 1: Decorah 10, New Hampton 5 Decorah scored all 10 of its runs in the first three innings and left the competition in the dust, powered by the heart of its lineup. The Vikings' Nos. 2–4 hitters—Mason Avila, Kaden Alstad and Gavin Knutson—each tallied two hits and two RBIs to lead the way. "Led by our 2, 3 and 4 hitters, the offense got off to a great start and never looked back," coach Alec Zwanziger said. "With this being the final year of the NEIC, this one meant a lot. The boys made winning the conference one of their goals this winter, and I couldn't be more proud watching them accomplish it." Decorah finished with 10 hits and took advantage of four New Hampton errors. Cash Riehle earned the win, pitching five innings and allowing three earned runs on five hits. Elliot Berland and Ethan Kuennen combined to pitch the final two frames. New Hampton's Caden Rochford drove in two runs, and Jaxon Eckley reached base three times and stole two bases. Game 2: Decorah 1, New Hampton 0In the closing game, senior Brayden Wemark delivered a masterful performance on the mound, throwing six shutout innings with six strikeouts while allowing just two hits. Alstad came on in the seventh to close out the win and earn the save. "Brayden's been great for us all year, but tonight he had that look in his eyes that said, 'Just give me a lead and the game is over,'" the coach said. Decorah pushed across the game's only run in the second inning on a sacrifice fly from Henry Brynsaas. The Vikings finished with just three hits but made it count, leaving 10 runners on base and holding New Hampton to two hits while stranding 11. "This group's toughness and ability to stay composed in stressful moments is what impresses me most," Zwanziger said. "No matter who we're playing, these guys are going to compete and find a way to win." With the sweep, Decorah sealed its spot atop the conference standings and closed the chapter on the NEIC with a championship. Knowledge is power! Stay empowered by subscribing to the free newsletter, packed with valuable insights, stories of local newsmakers and ideas to get your weekend started.

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Decorah Sweeps New Hampton, Clinches Final NEIC Baseball Title