Darien's 10U Little League Team Wins District Championship

DARIEN, CT — For the first time in 17 years, a little league team from Darien has won the 10U District 1 Championship.

Darien captured the title in a thrilling victory on Monday by defeating Stamford American 1-0. The team was fueled by a strong crowd of supporters who flocked to Drotar Park in Stamford for the game.

"These young athletes demonstrated incredible teamwork and resilience. It's been an honor to guide them through this championship. On to Sectionals!" said head coach John Butler, who also serves as the president of Darien Little League.

The game’s momentum was set early by starting pitcher Joey Paccione, who pitched three scoreless innings. Pitchers Chase Sutter and Rex Paquette closed out the game with scoreless frames of their own.

Darien also relied on its defense, which was showcased on the first play of the game when first baseman Charlie MacLane ranged to catch a pop fly in foul territory.

Later on, outfielder Alex Abelson got the ball in quickly to hold the runner at first with a single.

Johnny Huntington, Phil Gironde, and Dillon Chadda also made significant contributions in the outfield, while the infield held steady with critical outs from Paquette, Sutter, Paccione, MacLane and Luca Hidaka. Hugh Butler and Lucas Smith were stalwarts at catcher.

At the plate, Wells Johnson made the opposing pitcher work in an eight-pitch at-bat.

The final out was a dramatic pop fly catch by Paccione to seal the victory.