Fort Lee 14U All-Stars Finish Runners-Up In State Baseball Tournament

FORT LEE, NJ — It seemed that the stars were aligning for the Fort Lee 14U Junior All-Stars baseball team this year, yet, on the heels of a remarkable season, the team fell 4-3 to Franklin Township last week in a rematch at the state championship.

"It was an incredible ride that was enjoyed by everyone in the community, and the journey to get there was a thrill," Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich said. "We are so appreciative of what the team accomplished."

Despite winning 3-1 against the undefeated Franklin the day before, Fort Lee had to face the team again in the double-elimination tournament in Deptford and struggled to eke out the second victory, Fort Lee coach George Iino said.

Fort Lee was also hot off a 16-6 win against Point Pleasant in the state semi-final, and were crowned Section 2 and District 6 champions earlier in the season. The All-Stars seemed poised to secure the state title.

"Unfortunately, the amazing fun of the 14U All-Stars came to an end," Fort Lee Little League said on Facebook. "Congratulations to Franklin and Fort Lee for a magnificent display of competitiveness, perseverance and grit until the very last out."

Since 1965, the post said, no other Fort Lee team had ever advanced this far in a national little league tournament.

"Hold your head up high and be proud and #BeFortLee," the post said.