Historic Thunderbirds: Las Plumas Claims State Title, Finishes 31-Win Season
Thunderbirds Capture First-Ever State Title with 4-1 Victory Over Chico
The Las Plumas High School Thunderbirds put the finishing touch on one of the greatest seasons in school history Saturday, defeating Chico High School 4-1 in the CIF State Regional Division III Championship game.
Las Plumas wasted no time taking control of the contest. In the bottom of the first inning, Kendal Headley reached base, stole second, and later scored the game’s first run on an RBI single by Jayse Long. The early lead gave the Thunderbirds momentum, and they never looked back.
Behind a stellar defensive effort and another outstanding performance in the circle from Kyler Storey, Las Plumas kept Chico’s offense in check throughout the game. Storey pitched a complete game, allowing just one run while consistently working out of trouble and keeping the Panthers from mounting any serious comeback.
The Thunderbirds’ defense was sharp from start to finish, making key plays behind Storey and helping preserve the lead. One of the biggest moments of the game came when Reagan Johnson made a spectacular diving catch in the outfield, robbing Chico of a potential hit and spoiling what looked to be a promising rally. The highlight-reel play energized the Thunderbirds and helped maintain control of the game.
Chico was limited to just a single run as Las Plumas controlled the game on both sides of the ball.
The championship victory capped a truly historic season for the Thunderbirds. Las Plumas finished with an incredible 31-1-1 record, won its fourth consecutive league championship, captured a section title earlier this spring, and now adds the program’s first-ever state championship to an already remarkable year.
For a team that set lofty goals from the beginning of the season, Saturday’s victory was the perfect ending. The Thunderbirds not only brought home a state title but also secured their place in school history with one of the most successful seasons ever produced by a Las Plumas softball team.
With a section championship, a state regional championship, and a 31-win season, the 2026 Thunderbirds will be remembered as a team that raised the standard for Las Plumas softball and achieved something no team in program history had done before.
