Tribune photo by John Byrne - Chase Lee throws to first base during infield drills at his Spanish Springs Cal Ripken All-Stars practice Wednesday night.
“I think it’s just a tribute to the kids we've got coming out to our organization. I’m pretty happy about it. We all are,” league president Damon O’Connell said. “I tell you what, the funnest part is walking out there and seeing the talent level in all age groups.
“I’ve got to say it’s the highest it’s ever been. I don’t remember any year past where we’ve had this many groups go to regionals. It’s quite the accomplishment.”
Spanish Springs fields all-star teams in seven different age divisions — 8, 9 and 10 years olds, 11 and 12 -year olds that play on fields with 60-foot bases and 11 and 12 year olds with 70-foot bases.
Three of those teams won state tournaments two weeks ago at their home complex in Spanish Springs. Regional tournaments are set to start Sunday and Monday.
The 10-year olds, managed by Wayne Smith, dropped their state tourney opener, but battled back to win their tournament. The tourney title gives them a regional berth. Regional tournament action starts Sunday in Elk Grove, Calif.
Both Spanish Springs teams that play on fields with 70-foot bases kept their summer season alive with state tournament triumphs. The 11-70s, managed by Travis Lee, are headed to Taylorsville, Utah for regional tournament play that begins Sunday.
The Spanish Springs 12-70s rolled through state tournament play. The group won state as 11 year olds as well and won multiple regional games a year ago. Players and coaches are excited for the regional tournament, that begins Sunday in Long Beach, Calif.
“The sky is the limit for this group,” said O’Connell, who also doubles as the team manager. “It’s probably the best 12-year-old group we’ve put out there. I’m looking forward to going down there and hopefully winning a few games. I think we can beat anybody out there. It’s just a matter of how we play.”
In the 8-year-old division, Spanish Springs won state and is set to compete at regionals in Scottsdale, Ariz. The Spanish Springs all-stars, who compete on fields with 60 feet between bases, both took home state tournament championship trophies as well. The local 11-year-old and 12-year-old teams go to Panguitch and Nephi, Utah respectively.
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