Follow @PBRVirginiaDC 
Facebook + Instagram

In 2023 the Lebanon Pioneers returned back to glory, bringing home another state title. This time it was a VHSL Class 1A Championship, but the Pioneers move back to 2A in 2024. Below we preview three teams that could make some noise in VHSL 1A during the 2024 season, with Auburn probably being the odds on favorite.

 

VHSL 1A Previews:

Auburn (Riner)

2023 Record: 24-3 *VHSL 1A Runner-Up*

Auburn came up just short in the 1A State Championship game, but that does not take away from a phenomenal season by the Eagles. Auburn compiled a 24-3 record, with two of their losses being one run games. The Eagles outscored opponents 293-51 over the course of the season and look to finish the job in 2024. The powerhouse 1A program returns multiple contributors in Brody Hensel, Brady Hale, Jared Lavergne, Talan Mower, Kenny Wade, Matthew Altizer, Zac McGlothlin, Mitchell Hale, and Landen Marrs. All of those above individuals garnered postseason honors, including Hensel earning 2nd Team All-State Pitcher and Lavergne racked up the awards with 1st Team All-State Pitcher, Mountain Empire District Player of the Year, and Region C Player of the Year. With everything they have returning and Lebanon taking the step up to 2A, it will be tough to argue against the Auburn Eagles being the odds on favorite to bring home the hardware in 2024.

---

Chilhowie

2023 Record: 17-10 *Lost in VHSL 1A Quarterfinals*

Dawson Tuell and Connor Smith are the big returners for the 17-10 Warriors.They return seven starters in total, as well as five arms. Tuell and Smith will be joined by seniors Issac Booth and Ben Kilbourne. Landon Bowman (‘26) and Noah Hill (‘25) should also provide some depth to this Chilhowie team. While the offense scored their fair share of runs in 2023, the pitching staff will need to limit opponents’ big innings in order to have a chance to topple some of the 1A powers that they will need to beat to advance to Salem in early June.

---

Narrows

2023 Record: 19-3 *Lost in VHSL 1A Quarterfinals*

Narrows had a strong 2023 as well, compiling a 19-3 record, with their only losses coming to the hands of Auburn and Lebanon. Outside of their games versus the two state title game participants, the pitching staff limited most offenses to big run outputs. The Green Wave returns some upperclass talent in Carson Crigger, but will have a ton of depth and talent to replace from their 2023 class.