On Thursday night, the Baker Gators defeated Hawthorne 27-14 to secure the Class 1A State Championship.
This will be Baker’s first state title since 1993 and was the football program’s third state championship appearance in the past five years.
“You have made the City of Baker proud as well as all of Okaloosa County,” said Superintendent Marcus Chamber on Thursday night. “You have had an amazing season and you have earned ALL the success and glory that comes from a State Championship.”
“So many never have the fortune of earning that Title because it is so hard, but you have! We are all so proud of the Baker football players, Coach Brunson, his staff and Principal Martello… absolutely incredible!! Baker Gators, YOU did it. Champions forever!! You will have memories for a lifetime!!”
Holding a sparkler outside her home right after the win, Okaloosa School Board Member Linda Evanchyk (who represents the Baker district), said, “This is for the Baker Gators! I can’t tell you how proud I am to represent Baker on the school board. They are coming home from Tallahassee tonight as State Champions!”