Just a few weeks ago, the Meadowview Christian softball team had a record of well under .500 and for whatever reason hadn’t pieced it all together this year.

Maybe the Trojans were just saving their best for last.

Meadowview defeated New Life Christian Saturday to win the Alabama Christian Athletic Association’s state softball championship. The Trojans were on fire through the ACAA playoffs, only losing to New Life in the first of two games the Eagles would’ve had to win to steal the title.

Instead, Meadowview pulled it out, even without pitcher Shelby Boswell, who left Saturday’s game with a knee injury after sliding home to score the game-winning run. It was the first varsity state championship for Meadowview since 1980 and the school’s first title of any kind since joining the ACAA two years ago.

The entire team deserves congratulations for winning the title, especially after getting so close last season. Last year, Meadowview lost to New Life in the state softball championship.

Bouncing back to win the championship this year shows the grit and determination the Trojans had this season. Many teams that get that close and then lose aren’t able to come back as strong the next year.

Sports is the perfect epitome for real life. Teamwork, determination and hard work played a role in Meadowview winning the title, but those qualities will also continue to serve the Trojans well once they graduate and move into the work force.

Congratulations to Meadowview for its victory Saturday and for its state championship. It’s an accomplishment Trojans’ fans will be talking about for a long, long time.