GASTON, Ind. — Two years ago, Monroe Central could have been considered a bit of a "surprise" team.
The Golden Bears didn't surprise themselves. Because, despite starting five freshmen and a sophomore in 2019, Monroe Central had high expectations, which resulted in a 21-5 record and a one-run loss to eventual regional runner-up Wapahani in the sectional championship.
This year, Monroe Central, which brought back a ton of varsity experience from that sectional runner-up team, knew it wasn't going to shock any teams with its depth and talent. The Golden Bears came into the season ranked No.