Bob Strickley | Daily Times

The 2012 Division III State Champion Wheelersburg Pirates gather at Dakota’s Roadhouse in Portsmouth Tuesday evening to celebrate their victory.

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CODY LEIST

PDT Sports Writer

Family, friends and members of the Wheelersburg baseball team invaded Dakota’s Steakhouse Tuesday as they were honored for last weekend’s Division III State Championship.

“After we won the state championship, on the way home my wife asked (if) we were going to feed the team,” Wheelersburg Board of Education President Matt Miller said. “I made a couple of phone calls and it took a couple of days just to get it set up.”

Miller, a member of the 1989 Pirate football team that captured the Division IV title, is a local businessman who was more than willing to show his appreciation for his alma mater’s achievements. He also said that he is willing to reward those who reach the pinnacle of their trades.

“Any time any school brings a state championship to Scioto County, we’re going to celebrate it right here at Dakota’s,” Miller said.

Wheelersburg coach Michael Estep was glad for the opportunity to get his team, which finished the season with a 30-2 record, together for one more occasion. Estep was also thankful for the support sent by people outside of the Wheelersburg community.

“Any time we can get back together, it’s special,” Estep said.

Even days after Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Lima Central Catholic, the feeling of being a state champion still hasn’t sunk in to those involved with the Pirate baseball program.

“I don’t know that I really feel much different, it’s a great accomplishment and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to represent this part of the state,” Estep said.

The Daily Times will recognize Wheelersburg’s accomplishments during the 2012 baseball season in the June 13 edition.

Cody Leist can be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 242, or cleist@heartlandpublications.com.