The excitement over the Mid-Island Little League All Stars has been palpable on Staten Island. The Mid-Atlantic champs are taking the field to compete against baseball teams from around the globe and one thing is for sure; they have the support of fans all over New York. Here’s what you need to know about these 12-year-old boys and their impressive journey to the 2018 Little League World Series.
They’ve won their first two games of the series so far, defeating the Midwest 5-2 and the Southwest 2-1. They are now just one game away from the U.S. Finals. We will keep you posted!
They are the ONLY team from within the five boroughs to ever win the Little League World Series (which was back in 1964).
The boys won 15 games IN A ROW to make it to the World Series in Williamsport, PA.
Coaching the team is Joe Calabrese. The team dedicated the season to coach Joe’s brother, who passed away suddenly of a heart attack in 2014. His son, John Jr. now plays on the team.
Pitcher Gregory Bruno threw a perfect game at the Mid-Atlantic championship in early August, which played a major role in helping the team advance to the World Series. Click here for the complete roster and stats on each player. You can also get a live play-by-play of the games in real time at that link. You can watch the games on ESPN (channel 570 for Fios and 300 for Spectrum).
The Little League World Series is comprised of competing teams from eight regions throughout America and eight international regions. Click here to see which states and countries these teams are from.
If they lose two games, the team will be out of the series (nooooo!). Click here to see all World Series game results and schedules.
A Go Fund Me page has been established to help the team fund their journey. You can share it or donate to help the families with costs. If you eat at Applebees in the Staten Island Mall anytime on Wednesday, August 22, 20% of your bill will be donated to the team (present this flyer). And on Tuesday, August 21 from 8:30am to 2:30 pm, 100% of the Commons Cafe profits will be donated to Mid-Island Little League to help fund their trip.
GOOD LUCK TO THE MID-ISLAND LITTLE LEAGUE ALL STARS!!
Congratulate the team below!
Photo credit: Mid Island Little League Facebook page
