Rain or shine: Abilene High and Wylie High fans relish chance to face off in playoffs

All eyes were on the diamond this weekend as the Abilene High and Wylie High baseball teams faced off in the Class 5A regional quarterfinals at McMurry University's Walt Driggers Field.

Even with rain in the forecast, fans packed the stands and stood against the fence line to watch the crosstown rivalry play out during the first game of the series on Thursday night.

"You see them all the time in district, but at this time of the year when it's the third round of the playoffs, having two Abilene schools playing against each other in a venue like this, it's an awesome feeling," said Jim Garfield, Abilene ISD Executive Director of Athletics.

Wylie High head baseball coach Grant Martin said from the start of warmups he could tell the environment of two Abilene teams playing each other would make for a fun environment for fans and the players.

"It's a great atmosphere not just for the players, of course, but for the fans," Martin said. "They play a big role in it, and we're excited that we're in town and everybody can come out and watch."

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The three-game series is the first time since 1996 that two Abilene baseball teams had played each other in the playoffs, Garfield said.

"When two crosstown teams play against each other, they want to beat each other. But, when they are done playing and they are playing other opponents, it's like a family," he said.

Players from Wylie and Abilene High may be competitors for their school teams, but they can often be seen playing as teammates for summer club or select teams.

"With this being the third round, it's going to be a very competitive game," Garfield said.

Martin said playing against the Eagles will be a challenge for the Bulldogs, but it is an opportunity they are looking forward to tackling.

"Both teams being this far in the playoffs, it's a compliment to the baseball that's played in this town," he said.

Adrenaline was high on both sides as athletes gave their all to beating their rival, but it did not come at the sacrifice of sportsmanship.

Players from both teams could be seen patting their opponent on the back after an out and exchanging smiles when a runner stole a base.

Even Abilene High's student section — wearing a sea of black shirts with "The Designated Hecklers" written across them — playfully bantered with Wylie High fans.

"When it's all said and done with, these guys support each other," Garfield said, "will continue to support whoever advances."

This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: Rain or shine: Abilene High and Wylie High fans relish chance to face off in playoffs