The Somers Little League Junior All Stars team poses for a photo after winning the Connecticut State Championship.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
SOMERS — The Somers Little League Junior All Stars team etched their names in local history this summer, claiming their first-ever state championship and making a strong showing at the East Region tournament in Pennsylvania. For Assistant Coach Ryan White and the entire Somers community, the win was more than a milestone — it was the result of years of hard work, perseverance, and deep-rooted camaraderie.
“The coaches were so proud of the players,” said White. “For years, a majority of our players have been working hard all winter, spring, and into the summer to play all-stars. To see their excitement when we got to Pennsylvania and participated in the Parade of Champions, hear their names announced, and see their pictures on the jumbotron was so rewarding.”
The town doesn’t have a middle school baseball team, so Somers Little League has stepped up to provide this experience for the middle school-aged players.
“After a few years of not having a juniors team, the Somers Little League made a concerted effort to provide a team for our boys to continue to play baseball together after 12U and before entering high school,” explained White. “While some boys play AAU with CT Titans and Club21, most do not and we wanted to keep as many boys playing baseball to help support our future high school teams.”
For many players, the state championship game was the highlight of the season and their baseball journeys so far.
“My favorite game was the game we won the state championship because this was the very first time a Somers team had won a championship,” said Colton Killenbeck. “Being on this team taught me to never give up and chase your dreams.”
Teammate Logan Sliney echoed that sentiment. “Winning the state championship was my favorite moment because we were the first team in Somers’ history to win it. Being on this team has taught me that we need to play as a team in order to make it as far as we did.”
The team carried that momentum into regionals, where they impressed on and off the field — even while introducing themselves to others who’d never heard of their small Connecticut town.
“A tiny little league from a small town, having only one team during the spring, and having that team represent Somers was very special,” said White. “‘Where is Somers?’ was something we heard a few times in Pennsylvania. From practices to games, team meals and having fun in the swimming pool, the boys had a blast.”
Among the most memorable regional games was the comeback win against Washington, D.C., a game that left a big impression on many players.
“My favorite game this year was our second game in regionals against Washington D.C. because we had a rough start, but we pushed through to win it by a ton,” said Jack Piscottano. “Being on this team has taught me that even if you don’t always have the best start to something, you always have a chance to come back.”
Pitcher Jack Piscottano poses for a photo after pitching a perfect game against Wallingford.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
Jack Reardon agreed, “Making it to the East Region tournament and winning a game was special because we’re the first team from Somers to do so. This team taught me there’s always a time to come back.”
Charlie Molnar said, “My favorite game this year was our 2nd game in regionals against Washington, D.C., because we had a rough start, but we pushed through to win it by a ton. Being on this team has taught me that even if you don’t always have the best start to something, you always have a chance to come back.”
CJ Hwalek added, “My favorite game was winning against D.C. and getting player of the game. It showed me that you can play good baseball and have fun at the same time.”
Adam Wood summed up the team’s growth: “When we won states — and it wasn’t even close — it felt amazing. This team taught me to never let one mistake make you cause another one later on.”
Noah Connors said, “My favorite part of the season was when we beat Washington, D.C. It taught me to keep my head in the game and never give up, even if we’re down a lot.”
And for Chase White, the memories go beyond the score. “My favorite game was when we won the state championship. The team was so happy — it was an electric moment I will never forget. Being on this team has taught me that even if the game doesn’t go your way, it’s the memories you make along the way that matter.”
As for what’s next, Coach White is already looking forward. “For half of the team, they will be entering high school next year and have an opportunity to play JV and even compete for open positions left by our graduating seniors. We see a few of our players possibly making an impact at the varsity level as freshmen at some point next spring,” he said. “The younger half will get the opportunity to be leaders and compete for another state championship!”
With passion, teamwork and a town behind them, the future of Somers baseball has never looked brighter.
