A team of 6th and 7th graders from Holliston recently returned from Cooperstown, New York where they participated in the Cooperstown Dreams Park Tournament. The tournament, renowned for its intense competition and camaraderie, drew teams from all around the country. The team came together in the spring to organize and fundraise for the week-long tournament. After the baseball season, together with their coaches, the team began to practice and prepare.
Stepping onto the grounds of Cooperstown Dreams Park, our local team of twelve players were fueled by a mixture of excitement and nervous energy. Among the rolling fields and echoes of baseball’s history, these young athletes showcased their commitment to the game, their teammates, and their dedication to giving their best.
Our Holliston representatives faced impressive opponents. While victories on the field might not have been in abundance, the team’s tenacity, unity, and spirit shone through, leaving a lasting mark on players and their families. Our local players exemplified the true essence of sportsmanship and teamwork, forming bonds that extended beyond tournament week.
While there, the players stay together in barrack bunk buildings, filling their down time with endless wiffle ball games and the coveted tournament pin trading tradition. The coaches reported a bit of a late night celebration on the final evening together, complete with dancing and singing.
There were many highlights over the six day stay. From an outfield catch by Charlie Rotz that shifted game momentum, to a string of exciting strikeouts by a cadre of talented pitchers, our young athletes held their heads high and competed with heart, no matter the circumstances.
MVP of the week (as selected by team coaches), Ben Rebello, age 12, pitched over 11 innings, 168 pitches, and launched a ball over the left field fence for his first homerun in his little league career. When asked how it felt, Ben said, “It felt really cool, and it was really awesome because it was one of my last chances to hit one, I was really happy.” Other home runs were hit by teammates Charlie Rotz and Tristan Snyder (2).
Another recognition given by the coaches was to the most improved player. Leo Johnson, age 11, received this designation after coming in clutch on both offense and defense for the team. When asked about the experience, Leo said, “It felt great to receive the most improved player award and it was really fun playing at Cooperstown and talking to all the people from all around the United States. I also really appreciated how nice everybody treated me even though I was younger than most of them.”
Beyond the competition itself, the week held another highlight: a team visit to the hallowed halls of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Walking in the footsteps of legends, they marveled at artifacts and stories that have shaped the history of the sport.
Many of the players were joined in Cooperstown by parents, siblings and grandparents. Families gathered to watch each game, share high fives and wipe a few tears. Some siblings watched every inning, some had competitive pin trading strategies, and others were just there for the ice cream.
The team coaches, Steve Rebello and Parker Snyder, took time off from work and family to spend the week with the players, acting as both coaches and counselors for this big adventure that resembled summer camp. The experience would not have been possible without their commitment, patience and leadership.
As we celebrated the tournament together over (more) wiffle ball, burgers and some sort of electric green punch, the group was unanimous that the Cooperstown Dreams Park Tournament should be an annual event in Holliston. If you have a little leaguer – keep your eyes open for 2024 information! Afterall, we now have a Golden Ticket.
Hi my son Luke Seariac next to coach rebello was the first baseman also went to Cooperstown