By Kevin Landry
Every sports league loves a good Cinderella story, and cornhole is no exception. The sport’s open qualification system has allowed new, unknown players to break into the professional scene, challenging the established veterans and showing that anyone with the right determination can make it to the top.
Jake Morales, a former high school pitcher from Kansas, started playing cornhole during the pandemic and quickly rose through local competitions. He shocked the pro circuit by qualifying for the 2024 ACL Championship, where he went toe-to-toe with some of the biggest names in the sport. “When I first started, I thought it was just a fun way to pass the time with friends,” Morales says. “But I fell in love with the precision and strategy, and now I’m competing against the best. It feels surreal.”
While Morales’ rise is impressive, he’s not alone. More amateurs are competing in pro tournaments, often securing sponsorships and even challenging for titles. This influx of new talent is adding an unpredictable element to professional tournaments, making the competition more exciting. As the pro circuit continues to grow, these underdog players are proving that anyone with the right dedication and skill set can make an impact.
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