DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) — After winning the Diamond Youth Baseball State Championship, the Dothan American 10U All-Stars have an even bigger task ahead: bringing home the World Series title in Louisiana.
After going undefeated through 10 games in the district and state tournaments, these all-stars are ready to take their talents to the biggest stage.
“I’m excited and I’m excited to hang out with my teammates, so just got to have fun,” said second baseman William Richardson. “We’ve been sticking to this one game plan and it’s been working, so I think we have a chance.”
In a 12-team tournament bracket it won’t be easy. These young athletes know they will face adversity, but it’s how they handle those challenges that will ultimately make the difference.
“Just encourage and, like, when they get down, help them build back up,” said third baseman and pitcher John Hayes Tiner. “If we haven’t scored runs, help get on the board and get on base. Good attitudes, not getting down when we’re not winning, and just fight back.”
The first challenge for this team is not even on the field; it’s the age-old challenge of fundraising, where they’re looking for any help they can get.
“We’re looking at sponsors around the city, and you know, we’re no longer just Dothan American. We are now representing Alabama,” said Coach Duffy Battles. Every little bit helps when you’ve got this many traveling that far away.”
Coach Battles is confident his team can perform well in Louisiana, as long as they do the little things right.
“If they don’t get caught up in the moment and the spotlight, don’t try to do too much,” said Battles. “If they’re pitching, they don’t have to strike everybody out. Just find the zone and put it across. Batting wise, don’t try to hit the ball out of the park. Let’s just settle for a base hit and keep it simple for them.”
And at the end of the day, making it to the World Series is an accomplishment in and of itself. So what makes this team special?
“They’re very close. The parents, all the players, all the staff, our park—everybody’s just been very close through this whole process, and they love playing together. They really do,” said Battles.
If you are interested in sponsoring travel for this team, you can reach out to coaches Duffy Battles, Stephen Burgess, or Justin Tiner via their Facebook pages, or visit DothanAmericanLeague.com.
