East Lyme Little League’s 12u boys’ team decided that this year they would take home the State Championship title. They put in the work and became the first 12u baseball team from East Lyme to take home the State Championship title.
East Lyme Baseball played in Trumble and took down Shealton with a 4-1 win, continuing their winning streak, and taking the State Championship title on August 7th.
“We kinda cracked the ceiling [last year], They broke the ceiling [this year],” last year’s team manager Joel Farrior said.
Last year’s team was the first to ever become district champs for East Lyme 12u; seven of those players returned this past summer to play again.
“We had a high expectation level. Finishing second [in the state] last summer meant the expectation was really high for these kids, not just for the coaches and parents,” Andrew Cellemme, this year’s team manager, said.
With help from ELHS baseball coach, Jack Biggs, the team was able to rise to victory.
“We’re lucky enough to have Jack Biggs, since his youngest son is on the team, to teach at a more advanced level of training than what’s typical for 11-12 year old boys,” Mr. Cellemme said.
Mr. Cellemme explains how the boys were completely dialed in and wanted to win just as much if not more than the coaches and parents. Though the boys had the energy and the urge to do well, there were a couple tight spots during their run. The coaches decided to sit them down and remind them why they were there.
“Third or fourth inning having a talk with these kids, and just telling them ‘we’re done telling you how good you are you have to figure it out for yourselves,” Mr. Cellemme said. They then went on to perform the best they ever had. Star pitcher Greyson Biggs, only let by five hits, one run and a walk. EL scored four of their runs in the first inning before the second out even happened. The dedication they showed proves how much they deserve that State Champion title.
