Smithfield advances to Little League World Series in Williamsport
SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — Every television at The Trap North in Smithfield was tuned into the big game in Bristol, Connecticut on Friday night, as the Smithfield Little League All Stars made the final out against New York and punched their ticket to Williamsport Pennsylvania.
From 90 miles away at home, the entire town was cheering them on.
Smithfield’s Little League President, Shanyn Turner, said she’s seen the group through the program since they were in tee-ball and always knew they stood out among the rest.
“Their spirit — right — the boys are just so spirited, they’re so kind like I said, they’re humble and they’re just fantastic ball players and they’re just here to play the game,” Turner said.
Turner told ABC 6 News that this was the first time in 56 years that the team made it to regionals, now the program is at new heights.
“A lot of kids coming up are looking at that and saying ‘I wanna do that, I want to be there,'” Turner continued. “They’re heroes they’re better than the Red Sox or the Patriots right now.
Adam Lagreca coaches the age group below the Smithfield All Stars. His son Rocco hopes he too can make it to Williamsport in four years but he’s got some work to do.
The department will begin a $15,000 fundraising effort for parents and others to make the trip, but now Smithfield has even more to celebrate with champions across the globe on deck in Williamsport and no shortage of momentum.
