The
dream season has unfortunately come an end for the Massapequa Coast as the
Little League team suffered its second and final loss of the tournament, 7-1,
against Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania.
Massapequa
led early in the game after Ryan Huksloot capitalized on a ball thrown away –
but the Pennsylvania offense proved to be too much. The game was wrapped up in
six innings following a lengthy rain delay.
The
Metro champs were the first in more than 40 years to represent Long Island in
the Little League World Series.
"These
boys are champions,” said league president Craig Garland. “…They are an
inspiration to every boy out there that ever wants to play in the Little League
World Series."
Parents,
coaches and fellow players that had gathered at Bar Grazie in Massapequa for a
watch party called the team members “winners” and “role models.”
"The
commitment that these kids put in when they could be at the beach or the pool
hanging out with their friends – but they put in a 100% commitment and it
shows," said Kathleen Durnin.
When
the Massapequa Coast team arrives back home, they are sure to receive a hero’s
welcome. They plan on spending the night in Williamsport before arriving
back in Massapequa at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.