The No. 1 Dakota Cougars suffered a heartbreaking 5-3 loss to the Hartland Eagles in the 2025 Division 1 baseball state championship on June 14, after the game went into extra innings. The defeat marks a significant moment for the Cougars, who had hoped to secure the title against their strong rivals. Despite leading at times during the game, Dakota succumbed to Hartland's late-game rally, which sealed their victory in the ninth inning.

By the Numbers
  • Dakota scored 3 runs, Hartland scored 5 runs.
  • The championship game lasted 9 innings.
State of Play
  • The game took place in East Lansing, Michigan.
  • This championship loss ends Dakota's bid for a state title this season.
What's Next

With the season concluded, Dakota will look to regroup and strengthen their team ahead of next year's competition, aiming to build on their strong performance this season for another championship run.

Bottom Line

This loss serves as a tough lesson for the Dakota Cougars, a reminder of the unpredictability of championship games and the fight required to secure victory in high-stakes situations.