Following their state championship victory on Saturday, July 9, the Nisqually Basin 12u All Star team traveled to Meridian, Idaho, to compete in the Cal Ripken League regional tournament.
On Thursday, July 21, the Nisqually Basin All Stars took on the Black Hills All Stars in the first matchup of the tournament. The two teams previously met in the Washington State Championship tournament, splitting matchups one to one.
In their final meeting of the postseason, Nisqually Basin defeated Black Hills 12-2, after a dominant effort by the team.
In their second matchup of the day, Nisqually Basin had the chance to punch its ticket to the regional championship game if they won. In the matchup, they took on the hosting Meridian All Star team. Their winning efforts on July 21 continued, as they defeated Meridian, 5-3, punching their ticket to the big dance.
On Friday, July 22, Meridian and Black Hills played in a winner advances matchup. The Meridian All Stars routed Black Hills 12-1.
In the championship game, Meridian’s bats came alive as they scored 17 runs. Their pitching did enough to secure the victory as well, as they defeated the Nisqually Basin All Stars, 17-5.
After losing to the Nisqually Basin team the day prior, Meridian had their number in the championship game.
“Meridian was a great host and ran an excellent tournament,” Ben Will, head coach of the Nisqually 12u All Stars said. “The kids played hard and we saw some great pitching.”
Will noted the team saw great pitching from Finn Hanley, Cooper Jansen, Jonathan Will and Noah Westfall.
The team was victorious, winning the skills competition on day one of regionals. Competitions in the event included a home run derby, a base race, around the horn, and accuracy throws.
Coach Will gave credit to several players for their efforts in the tournament as well. He said Blake Fennel hit a solo homerun, and Brayden Rodriguez and Austin Ryerse provided standout fielding in the outfield.
He added Brian Theel, Jonathan Will, Finn Hanley, Cooper Jansen and Blake Fennel all played “phenomenal” in the 100 degree heat in Meridian.
“The kids and parents were super excited and supportive throughout (the tournament). This absolutely brought the team and community together,” Coach Will said. “We appreciate all the folks that helped get these players to regionals, (including) parents, donors, sponsors and the league.”
