August 9th 2024.
The North Boulder under-age 12 baseball team had been on a thrilling journey, determined to be the first team from Colorado to reach the Little League World Series. The Wildcats, as they proudly called themselves, had been dominating at the plate throughout the district, state, and even their opening game at the mountain regional tournament in San Bernardino, California. Their impressive batting skills, with a whopping 17 hits and three home runs, had led them to a resounding 18-7 victory against Montana on Sunday.
But despite their initial success, their journey ultimately came to an end, leaving them just short of their ultimate goal. The Wildcats suffered a tough loss to Utah, 16-2, on Tuesday, and were then eliminated by Nevada, 4-0, on Thursday. It was a tough pill to swallow for the team, who had high hopes of reaching the Little League World Series.
Coach Joe Lutt expressed his disappointment, saying, "We have a really good hitting team, so it was a bummer there. There are certainly good pitchers, but I think all the kids felt like they should have been able to get a lot more hits and put some runs on the board. It just didn't happen. That's just how baseball goes, especially with 12-year-olds."
Despite the disappointment, the team's trip to the regional tournament was still a remarkable experience. Tyce Vigil, who had an impressive 5 for 6 record at the plate, and Colton Priest, who drove in five runs, were standout players. Heath Smouse also shined on the mound, earning a win and allowing only three earned runs over 5 2/3 innings pitched.
But perhaps the most memorable moments for the team came away from the field. Coach Lutt was amazed by the pure joy and camaraderie among the 12-year-old players as they spent time together at the beach, the pool, and riding go-karts. "These guys are just hanging out with each other and enjoying the experience together," Lutt said with a smile.
Although their journey may have ended, the Wildcats' determination and teamwork were evident in their practices leading up to the tournament. The team, consisting of players such as Colton Priest, Milo Tromey, Jerex Jones, Reed Bent, and Ryder Thompson, had been practicing tirelessly at Iris Fields in Boulder since August 31, 2024. As they prepared for their trip to California, they were focused and dedicated to representing their state and making history.
Unfortunately, it was not meant to be this time for Colorado, as Nevada ultimately secured their spot in the Little League World Series with a 2-0 victory over Utah on Friday. Colorado still remains one of six states without an appearance in the prestigious tournament.
But the North Boulder under-age 12 baseball team had certainly made their mark and left a lasting impression on their coaches and community. Their passion, hard work, and sportsmanship will surely continue to inspire future generations of young athletes. As the team expands and the photos show, they were a close-knit group, with coaches Loe Lutt and Jesse Jones guiding them every step of the way.
The Wildcats may have fallen short of their ultimate goal, but their journey was nothing short of sensational. And who knows, perhaps one day, they will make history as the first team from Colorado to reach the Little League World Series. The future certainly looks bright for these talented young athletes.
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