Local Little Leaguers Heading to Cooperstown

“The real memories of baseball are kept in a player’s soul.” Anonymous

It may be a summer game, but the Bay Area Mavericks youth baseball team played throughout the winter and spring in preparation for the ultimate hardball competition--Annual Youth Baseball Hall of Fame Invitational Tournament in Cooperstown, New York.

The team, which is comprised of 12-year-old players primarily from Belmont and Redwood Shores, was selected to play in the tournament held annually at Cooperstown Dreams Park. The week-long tournament begins June 16.

According to Mavericks team spokeswoman, Kim Patton, each player has been working hard to prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The team competes in tournaments throughout the Bay Area year-round and the players have a strong commitment to each other and the team.

In addition to competing against teams from around the country, members of the Bay Area Mavericks will be enshrined in the prestigious American Youth Baseball Hall of Fame.

"Cooperstown Dreams Park provides a venue for special memories because it is set in the traditional home of the game itself. The tournament creates a stage and a setting for the total and complete experience. As the Bay Area Mavericks journey to the legendary home of baseball in pursuit of their dreams they look forward to representing their community in Cooperstown," said Patton.

“There is a special magic to 12-year-old baseball. It’s the pinnacle of a childhood game that captures the transition from the innocence of youth to adolescence. It’s the basis of our national pastime wrapped in a set of emotions, experiences, and memories. This is a game that’s bigger than any player, any coach, and any fan. Youth baseball captures our hearts for a time and leaves permanent impressions that become part of the fabric of our being.” Anonymous

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