Gulls advance to WCBL finals for first time in franchise history

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on August 13, 2025.

sports@medicinehatnews.com@MedicineHatNews

The Sylvan Lake Gulls are soaring to new heights.

Sylvan Lake advanced to the WCBL finals Monday with an 8-4 win at home over the Okotoks Dawgs, punching their ticket to the championship series for the first time in their five-year existence.

The Gulls’ finals appearance also ends a run of consecutive finals appearances for the Dawgs, who had won three straight Harry Hallis Memorial Trophies. The last non-Okotoks champion came in 2021 when the Lethbridge Bulls captured the franchise’s second title, winning the five-team season limited due to COVID-19.

On Monday, the two teams were tied at 1-1 after the first inning before the Gulls rattled off a six-run second frame to propel them in the win.

Designated hitter Brock Tijerina had three hits and two RBIs in the win for the Gulls.

Leeroy Taverez worked six innings allowing just two runs (one earned) on eight hits and a walk, with six strikeouts.

The Gulls will face the winner of the East division finals between the Saskatoon Berries and Regina Red Sox. The Berries forced a decisive Game 3 with an 8-4 win Monday in Regina.

The Berries put up a pair of three-run innings to keep their season alive. They hosted Regina on Tuesday for Game 3 of the series which was not complete by press time.

The WCBL finals will get underway Thursday. If Saskatoon advances, they will be the home team for the championship series, hosting Game 1 and Game 3 if needed. If Regina wins the East division, Sylvan Lake will hold home field advantage.

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