Of all the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference titles won by St. John's during its current baseball dynasty — a reign extended to three after Saturday's 3-2 victory against Good Counsel at Nationals Youth Baseball Academy — many of the Cadets felt this year's championship push could be particularly special.

With five seniors long on playoff experience and a roster deep with talent on the mound and at the plate, the Cadets were eager to test themselves early, namely in the IMG National Classic over spring break.

"We came into the season thinking we'd be the big dogs on top, but then losing our first game and having some tough games in that tournament, even though we finished second, that was really humbling," Cadets senior Cam Remalia said. "It gave us the right mind-set, though, that we had to work. Without that, we wouldn't be where we are."

The uphill battle back to the top of the hotly contested WCAC culminated with No. 6 St. John's twice staving off a gritty Good Counsel.

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