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Successful Little League debut season ends at Section tournament

The Shafter Little League All-Star team saw their tournament life end this past weekend when they fell in the finals of the Section 7 tournament, losing to Chowchilla in a best of three series. The locals, according to Coach Daniel Burciega, had a long ride up there and it showed in the first game. "They were a little tired, and then we had to sit through a 30-minute delay when their lights overheated and went out."

Chowchilla will move on to the State tournament held next month.

But, he said that the kids played tough, and he couldn't ask for any more in their first season of Little League play.

The team beat out several teams, including Arvin, Wasco and Greenfield, to win the District 61 championship, qualifying them to move on to the Section 7 tournament. The Shafter team beat Greenfield for the championship. They received championship rings and some pins for their title.

Burciega said that the guys played their hearts out and he is very proud of them. He also recognized the parents who supported the team, including working on the field, getting it ready, bringing snacks and drinks for the kids, as well as the sacrifice of their time. "It has been such a special season. We can't wait to work for what is next, coming next season."

Burciega also said that the Little League experience is one that the kids will never forget. "They will keep this experience with them and build on it. Little League not only helps them learn the correct way to play, but also teaches them how to compete, meaning how to win and lose with class, which our kids surely did."

 

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