The Choctawhatchee High School baseball team will face Arnold High School in a decisive Game 3 of the Regional Semifinals on Thursday at 7 p.m. at Choctaw’s home field.

• After splitting the first two games of the series — a 1-0 loss followed by a 7-4 extra-inning victory — the Indians are looking to advance with community support behind them.

“We want the community to show up and pull for our kids,” said Head Coach David Weber. “There hasn’t been a playoff game around here in baseball of this magnitude in a very long time.”

The Indians’ playoff run caps a remarkable turnaround in Weber’s second season at the helm. After finishing 8-15 last year, Choctaw has improved to 18-14 this season, including an impressive 4-2 district record.

• “I think in the beginning of the year, I’m not sure anybody would’ve expected our team to make a run like this, except for, of course, our players,” Weber said. “It’s been pretty special so far.”

The team’s success stems from a strong bond formed through adversity. After a challenging start to the season, the players continued to battle and improve each game.

“They love each other and care about each other, and I think truthfully, that has made the biggest difference,” Weber said. “These guys really do love each other and want to stay together as long as possible.”

The roster features a balanced mix of experience and youth. Four talented seniors anchor the top of the batting order: leadoff hitter Keeson Wheeler, Aaron Rowell (committed to Pensacola State), Gant Folendore and Ryan Saffo. Both Folendore and Saffo are currently in discussions with colleges regarding their baseball futures.

• Further down the lineup, the team showcases promising young talent. Sophomore Maddox Gentry holds down the shortstop position, while junior Jordan Figueroa has been a standout at second base, at one point leading the team in batting average.

A unique aspect of the Choctaw roster is the presence of three sets of brothers — the Marroccos (Jack, Carter and Dylan), the Powells (Parker and Carter), and the Saffos (Luke and Ryan) — which adds to the family atmosphere.

Jack Marracco, a freshman, has made an immediate impact as a starting pitcher and outfielder. His versatility allows him to also play first base when needed, according to Weber. His brother Carter, a sophomore, has proven to be a clutch performer when called upon, while senior Dylan provides valuable leadership.

• The Powell brothers, junior Parker and freshman Carter (who was pulled up from JV), represent another family connection strengthening the team’s bond. Senior Ryan Saffo, a key component in the heart of the batting order, is joined by his sophomore brother Luke, who serves as a catcher for the Indians. Weber noted that opposing teams often remark on the number of brothers playing for Choctaw.

Senior Tristan Jackson, a football standout headed to the University of Houston, has embraced his specialized role on the team. Despite being primarily a pinch runner, the future Houston defensive player has emerged as a team leader.

“He’s the glue of the team,” Weber said. “It’s been really special to watch.”

The Indians’ playoff journey has included key victories throughout the season, culminating in an opening-round series win against St. Augustine before matching up with Arnold. In Game 1 against Arnold, senior pitcher Carson Appleton delivered a stellar performance in a tight 1-0 loss.

The team showed remarkable resilience in Game 2, scoring three runs in extra innings to secure a 7-4 victory and force Thursday’s decisive game. Aaron Rowell closed out the win on the mound.

Weber attributes the team’s improvement to their relentless work ethic since last season ended.

• “They have worked since the day the season ended and we went into summer ball,” Weber said. “They have worked and worked and worked from the weight room to the field. We have a few guys that I swear live in the cage. They’re always asking to hit, they hit nonstop.”

Weber is encouraging the community to pack the stands for Thursday’s game to witness what the team hopes will be another milestone in their memorable season.

“We would just love to have everybody out and pack the stands,” Weber said. “Let’s see how many fans we can put in the stands in Choctaw gear. Let’s fill both sides with all Choctaw. You might get a chance to see something really special depending on how the game goes.”