State Champs, Upper Providence Little League Advances

UPPER PROVIDENCE TOWNSHIP, PA — The Little League team that became Pennsylvania State Champions in July has claimed two victories this week in the Mid-Atlantic Regional Tournament as they prepare for a third game Thursday facing Toms River East Little League in New Jersey.

Upper Providence Little League Team Manager Ben Ludwig told Patch, "It's been an amazing run so far and I feel extremely grateful to be here with such a great group of boys and the best assistant coaches you can ask for. These kids decided to work towards a dream a few years ago and it's surreal to be one win away from realizing it."

Ludwig said he expects Thursday's game against Toms River to be "an all-out battle." The game begins at 7 p.m. and will be on ESPN.

"They are an extremely strong team with a lot of depth and I'm sure we will get their best effort. That said, our boys have battled through a lot to get here, have shown great focus and resilience, and I expect the same from them tomorrow. They may see the bright lights and ESPN cameras, but once the first pitch is thrown, it'll just be a great 12-year-old baseball game."

On Monday, Upper Providence squashed New York Colonie Little League 11-3. The game saw a double in the first inning from Cooper Fanaro and a home run by Sam Buckley. The games have been broadcast on ESPN.

On Sunday the team was in Washington D.C. where they defeated Capitol City Little League 5-1. The game saw strong pitching from Jalen Bowman, Tommy Sergio, and Ryan McVey.

Upper Providence is one of 300 chartered Little League organizations in Pennsylvania.

Ludwing said, "They've already accomplished so much and made memories that will last a lifetime, but a spot in Williamsport is the ultimate little leaguers goal and it's within reach."

The Little League World Series 2021 is planned for Aug. 19-29 in Williamsport, Pa.

Make sure you know what's happening in your town. Sign up to get Patch emails and don't miss any local news: https://patch.com/subscribe.