Clarendon Hills Little League Team Advances to World Series
Clarendon Hills erupted in celebration as their Little League team triumphed in the Great Lakes Regional Final, securing a spot in the prestigious Little League World Series.
At the Open Door Taproom and Bottle Shop, Donna Mittlestadt shared the excitement with fellow community members, her eyes glued to the screen during the nail-biting match against Ohio. "My son played Little League here, and we have a little cousin on the team, Luka," she remarked, embodying the spirit of local pride.
Support poured in from family, friends, and even fifth-grade teachers Julie Hafner and Lynn Marquardt, who rallied behind the team during this critical game. "After losing to Ohio on Monday, getting to this championship game means everything. We want to show them who we are," Hafner expressed, highlighting the determination of the players.
Parents echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the hard work and dedication that brought the team to this pivotal moment. Manager Brian Herold noted the unique challenge they faced, competing against teams from larger cities. "For the kids, it's just another game; for us parents and coaches, it's nerve-wracking," he said.
Herold emphasized the significance of their small-town roots, stating that finding 12 talented young athletes in a community of just 9,000 was a remarkable achievement. "We knew we could reach the championship game, so we preserved some pitchers for this moment," he added, reflecting on their strategic approach.
As the game reached its climax, a decisive strikeout in the bottom of the sixth inning confirmed Illinois's victory over Ohio with a score of 9-4. "When something like this happens, everyone in Clarendon Hills rallies together," Hafner noted, capturing the essence of community support.
The team is now set to travel to Williamsport, Pennsylvania, the birthplace of Little League baseball. They will depart at 7 a.m., with the entire community poised to cheer them on from home.
In 2023, another local team from Elmhurst made it to the World Series but fell short of victory. The Clarendon Hills team will dedicate ten days to rigorous practice sessions before their first game.
