Barrington Little League: 'A Bunch Of Scrappers' Hoping For Glory

BARRINGTON, RI — Following an incredible comeback victory in the Rhode Island state championships, Barrington's All-Stars have their sights set on the Little League World Series.

"They're a bunch of scrappers," said Manager Chris Promades. "They've been battling all season long."

The team is made up of 13 boys between the ages of 11 and 12, all of them solid players, Promade said. Instead of one or two superstars, every boy on the team is committed to playing his best every game and is ready when called upon.

The incredible season started on a low note after the team lost their first game, dampening everyone's spirits. After that, they shook off the cobwebs, coming back with a string of wins. From there, they won three state tournaments, bringing them to the penultimate game against Cranston West for the state title. Down two runs to seven in the sixth inning, the boys suddenly kicked into high gear, scoring eight rounds to take the win, 10 to seven.

Local and state officials, along with the community, sent the boys off to the regional championship in style at a pep rally at Sherwood Field, capped off by a police and fire escort to the highway.

"It's certainly something they'll never forget," Promades said. That's what it's all about, he continued, giving the boys an experience that they will never forget.

This is a big moment for Barrington, which has not won a state championship in more than 40 years.

On Monday, the boys played their first regional tournament in Bristol, Connecticut against Vermont, winning six to four. Ahead of the next game on Thursday, the team has been practicing every day while keeping it light.

"We're trying to keep them loose but focused," Promades said. "We keep saying: the field here is just like the field at home. It's all the same game."

If the All-Stars win on Thursday, they will continue on to play in the New England Championships, and, from there, the Little League World Series.

"We're here for the battle, the grind," he said. "And we want everyone to know how grateful we are to have the opportunity to play."