Treylan Webster’s Inspiring Speech and Play Lead Brother Rice to Victory
Jason Heyward delivered a memorable speech during a rain delay in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series for the Chicago Cubs. In a similar spirit on Wednesday night, Treylan Webster offered words of encouragement to his Brother Rice teammates, making his mark in Crusaders history.
Webster expressed, “It’s always good to have someone talking to you. In those moments, I always remind them, ‘You’ve worked all your life for this. It’s not time to panic. You’ve got this. We have each other and we’re going to do it together.’”
Webster not only inspired his team with words but followed through with his actions. As the team’s senior catcher bound for Purdue Northwest, he produced a game-tying RBI infield single with two outs. The Crusaders, facing a four-run deficit, rallied to win 7-6 against Reavis in the Class 4A Brother Rice Sectional semifinal in Chicago.
Brady Cunningham, a recruit for Texas A&M, sparked the comeback for the Crusaders (28-10) with a three-run homer in the seventh inning. Colin Campbell, committed to Louisville, walked and scored the winning run on a wild pitch in the eighth inning.
“We had faith that it was going to happen,” Cunningham said. “Everyone was staying together, rooting for each other.”
The second-seeded Crusaders are set to host fourth-seeded Mount Carmel (28-10) in the sectional championship game. Jonathan Liesen, a recruit for Morton College, hit a home run and scored three runs for sixth-seeded Reavis (24-13). Juan Avila and Anthony Perez each recorded two RBIs, while Robert Soto Jr. struck out six in 6 2/3 innings, allowing six earned runs.
The Rams were one out away from an upset when Webster stepped up with the bases loaded, trailing 6-5. He hit a high chopper, raced down the line, and was safe when Reavis failed to make a difficult play.
“Obviously, there were nerves, but they were good nerves,” Webster said. “I knew I was going to come through for my team. It wasn’t pretty, but I got it done. I couldn’t have done it without these guys. I’m blessed to have another day with them.”
His teammates feel the same about Webster. Cunningham stated, “Trey’s been our guy all year. He supports everyone during lows and roots them on during highs. We’d be nowhere without Trey. He’s been a mentor, and I love him so much.”
Brother Rice coach Sean McBride has watched Webster grow into this pivotal role. “I knew Trey when he was in seventh grade and he didn’t talk at all. Now, he’s motivating the guys. He got emotional after this win. At Brother Rice, we ask you to grow up here. Trey’s grown into an incredible leader and the baseball gods reward that.”
Webster, who has played baseball since age five, also participated in wrestling, which he believes made him tougher. “In wrestling, you’re going to lose. You’re going to get punched in the mouth. That’s what happened in this game. They beat us the first half, but you never quit. You come back, stay tough, show resilience.”
Webster ensured the Crusaders showed resilience, leading to a remarkable victory. “I got to first base and everyone’s cheering,” Webster said. “I’m happy. We live to see another day. I’m going to remember this my whole life. I’ll never forget it.”