The 2022-23 Glades Day Gators varsity baseball team. [Photo courtesy Rene Leon/Lake Okeechobee News]

BELLE GLADE — The Glades Day Gators varsity baseball team recognized players with awards at the end of their impressive season this year.

The Gators finished with a 15-8 record, at one point going on a seven-game win streak. They advanced to the district championship after defeating Wildwood in the semifinal.

“I feel like we had an amazing season,” said Glades Day coach Rene Leon. “We finished in first place in the district for the first time in years and we went all the way to the district championship where we finished as the district runner ups.”

Junior Marquis Clarke earned the MVP award for the Gators this season, while Offensive Player of the Year went to junior Jadin Herrera, and Pitcher of the Year to senior Frankie Barnes.

Glades Day coach Rene Leon speaks to junior Marquis Clarke during a break in the game. [Photo courtesy Rene Leon/Lake Okeechobee News]

Rookie of the Year went to junior Blake Barnes, freshmen Adrian Baeza and Gray Redish were named Most Improved, Defensive Player of the Year went to freshman Jyron Hughley, and sophomore Julian Ramos earned the Coach's Award. Finally, senior Mason Matos earned the Gator Award for his effort this season.

“The players gave one hundred percent effort every game whether we were up or down,” explained Leon of his team this season. “This is what separates us from other teams. My players understood their roles and bought in to our system right away and it helped us get to the championship.”

 “I’m proud of our team and I know that we will be back next season,” concluded Leon.