It’s not just about baseball. You don’t even have to like baseball. You just have to be a proud West Virginian who enjoys cheering on the West Virginia University Mountaineers Baseball Team. 

What happened a week ago when the team captured a walk-off run win over a well-oiled Kentucky team is nothing short of Mountaineer pride and teamwork at its best.

More than 4,000 fans packed the stadium in Granville and watched the historic night of baseball. In addition, a few thousand more watched from the grassy hillside overlooking the field. It was picture perfect weather in a state known for its spectacular beauty. 

Not even the ESPN TV announcers could deny the electricity that spilled into the dugout. While it was not a perfect game, the outcome was better than perfect. Despite the 6-5 narrow victory, it didn’t matter when that last run was scored. 

The crowning glory was the singing of our beloved “Country Roads” anthem. I swear watching from my own living room, I could hear the voices of proud Mountaineers from New Cumberland to Beckley joining in.

There is something powerful in that John Denver rendition that brings people to their feet, swaying together and voicing their love of not just a sports team, but a state that is often misunderstood by outsiders. It’s the icing on a very delicious cake.

While this accomplishment by the Mountaineers is historic, there is still much work to do this weekend. The Mountaineers are hosting the Morgantown Super Regional and facing Cal Poly for a best-of-three series. By the time you read this, they will have at least one game under their belt. Fingers crossed.

Just remember, it’s not just about baseball. It is about great sportsmanship, a camaraderie like no other. It’s what many will remember as some of their best college memories. It’s about the wonderful, welcoming people of West Virginia who are happy to share a blanket on the hillside and a plate of pepperoni rolls.

Sending my best thoughts and wishes to the team, the coaches, the families and fans. You’ve already made us proud.

Heather Ziegler can be reached via email at hziegler@theintelligencer.net.