ARLINGTON — Hamilton’s rapid rise under new leadership will be tested on the sport’s biggest stage Wednesday night when the Bulldogs face Joaquin in the Class 2A Division I state championship game at AT&T Stadium.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. as Hamilton (13-2) makes its second consecutive postseason appearance under head coach Ryan Marwitz, who took over the program last season. In just two years, the Bulldogs have transformed from a rebuilding team into a championship contender, capped by a run that now places them one win away from a state title.
Hamilton enters the matchup battle-tested. The Bulldogs’ only two losses this season came by three points or fewer, underscoring a team that has remained competitive in every outing. That resilience has carried into the postseason, where Hamilton has leaned on execution, discipline and an ability to close games in high-pressure situations.
Joaquin (11-4) arrives in Arlington with postseason momentum of its own, having navigated a demanding playoff bracket to reach the title game. The Rams have shown balance throughout the season, pairing a productive offense with a defense capable of creating key stops. Their experience and physical style present a significant challenge for a Hamilton team still early in its championship evolution.
For Hamilton, the matchup represents another milestone in Marwitz’s rebuilding effort. After missing the playoffs prior to his arrival, the Bulldogs have now reached the postseason in back-to-back seasons, a testament to the program’s growth and belief. Wednesday’s game offers a chance to turn that progress into a championship moment.
With two resilient teams meeting under the lights in Arlington, the Class 2A Division I title game promises a competitive showdown defined by close margins, composure and a season’s worth of preparation coming down to four quarters.