Wake Forest edges App State 3–2 in annual Jim Horn Tribute Game at Keeter Stadium

By Adrian Hamrick | AWLS | Dir. of Operations

The Jim Horn family gathered for a photograph at home plate. | ALWS courtesy photo

SHELBY, N.C. — The American Legion World Series (ALWS) Executive Committee once again delivered a memorable evening of baseball at Keeter Stadium as Wake Forest University defeated Appalachian State University 3–2 in the annual Jim Horn Tribute Game on Tuesday night.

After a brief morning shower cleared, fans were treated to a beautiful evening for baseball, with approximately 3,500 attendees filling the stands to celebrate one of Shelby’s favorite annual traditions. The close contest kept fans engaged throughout, with Wake Forest ultimately holding off Appalachian State in a fiercely competitive finish.

Now in its ninth year, the tribute game continues to honor the legacy of Jim Horn while bringing high-level college baseball to the community. The event remains a cornerstone of the ALWS’s commitment to providing family-friendly experiences and celebrating the rich history of baseball in Shelby and Cleveland County.

One of the night’s most anticipated moments came during the fourth inning, when 2026 American Legion World Series bat boys and bat girls were selected live on the field. This year saw tremendous enthusiasm, with 90 applicants eagerly hoping to hear their names called, further showcasing the event’s growing community engagement.

Wake Forest Head Coach Tom Walter continued his strong support of the event by once again bringing the Demon Deacons to Shelby. The annual game serves as a tribute to Horn, a Wake Forest graduate, multi-sport athlete, and member of the university’s 1955 national championship baseball team, as well as a former American Legion Post 82 player.

(Jim Horn Tribute Game continued below...)

Horn played a pivotal role in the success and growth of the American Legion World Series in Shelby, serving as co-chairman of the local organizing committee alongside Eddie Holbrook from 2002 until his passing in 2015. His lasting impact continues to be felt throughout the event, with his wife, Linda Horn and her family, remaining actively involved in organizing and supporting the tribute game.

“The atmosphere tonight was exactly what this event is all about,” said ALWS Executive Committee Chairman Eddie Holbrook. “A great game, a tremendous crowd, and a meaningful way to honor Jim Horn’s legacy. We’re grateful to Coach Walter, both teams, and our community for making this such a special night.”

With another successful tribute game in the books, the ALWS Executive Committee looks forward to building on this momentum as preparations continue for future events, including the 100th anniversary of the American Legion World Series in 2027.

Catcher for Wake Forest, Andrew Costello, hits a home run in the bottom of the second. | Chuck Thompson, Shelby Independent.

Follow The Shelby Independent on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. To contact Chuck about a story idea, send an email or visit the contact page.

Adrian Hamrick is the Director of operations for the American Legion World Series, Shelby, N.C.

The Shelby Independent.