Texas defending state baseball champion team kicked out of postseason

Texas Class 2A Division I will have a new state champion in baseball in 2026.

Centerville ISD forfeited the remainder of the baseball season due to a violation of University Interscholastic League UIL rules involving an ineligible player. The Tigers had reached the state semifinals this season and were just four wins away from back-to-back state titles.

However, Dottie Sullivan, the district’s interim superintendent, said on Monday the school received a notice of allegation from the UIL, alleging the use of an ineligible student-athlete.

Following an internal review, Centerville self-reported the violation and is out of the postseason.

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"On Monday, May 11, Centerville ISD received notice from the University Interscholastic League (UIL) regarding allegations involving the eligibility status of a CHS baseball student-athlete. In response, the district immediately began a comprehensive internal review and worked closely with the UIL, the District Executive Committee, and all involved parties throughout a multi-day investigative process to address questions and review all available information," an excerpt of a letter sent to parents from Centerville ISD read.

"To ensure transparency and open communication throughout the process, Interim Superintendent Dottie Sullivan and Athletic Director Kyle Hardee met with CHS baseball players and families on Monday, May 11, to provide an initial update regarding the investigation. A follow-up parent and player meeting was held on Tuesday, May 12, and a final meeting with families and student-athletes took place on Wednesday, May 13, following the district’s final determination.

"After carefully reviewing additional information obtained during the investigation, the district determined that a violation of UIL Constitution and Contest Rules had occurred. In accordance with UIL requirements, Centerville ISD self-reported the matter and accepted the resulting forfeiture of all impacted contests."

Centerville High School is located in Centerville, Texas, which is 80 miles from Waco, Texas and 115 miles from Houston. Enrollment at the school is just under 200 students for grades 9-12.

As a result of the forfeiture, Shelbyville ― which lost to Centerville in the area round ― is back in the postseason and will play Harleton in the regional semifinals.