Wilmington Youth Softball team heading to World Series
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The 12U Wilmington All Stars ENC Babe Ruth Softball team won their first ever state title in their age bracket. Now, it’s off to the World Series!
“We’re really excited,” Head Coach Jeff Pierce said. “We’ve never been in a tournament this big with this many teams coming from so far away. They work hard year-round playing, practicing and for them, they’ve never competed at this level either. It’s something new and exciting for everybody.”
So how exactly did the 12U Wilmington All Stars get to this point? The 13 girls spread out across the Port City came together for this all-star team and won their first ever state title recently in Winterville.
Now, their sights are set on a different trophy: The Babe Ruth Softball World Series title.
“I think we’ll do pretty good if we keep practicing and having a good attitude and effort. We’ll be able to do good.” Lara Granados said.
“I want to have fun with my friends but obviously I want to win also.” Sydney Ciamillo said.
In order to bring home the win, the girls have been working day-in and day-out to perfect the little things. While most girls their age are enjoying their summer vacation, these all-stars have more on their mind.
“It’s pretty hard,” Ciamillo said. “I’ve taken most of my life and devoted my time into getting into this spot. So getting to this spot is really amazing. It means a lot that I’m one of the top players in the city and top players in the state because that’s a really big accomplishment.”
To make history at such a young age is something these girls, who are wise beyond their years, truly appreciate. Now they get to share in a lifetime memory together.
“I think it will be really fun,” Granados said. “We’re going to have teams from California, Washington and Massachusetts come down to Florida to play with us. We’ve never made it this far and I get to take my lifetime friends with me.”
The girls have been hard at work fundraising for their trip. You can visit their Facebook page for more information by clicking here, or visit their GoFundMe page here.
Good luck, girls!
