West Chester’s East Side Little League soaking up the Little League World Series experience despite opening loss
For many of the players, the experience of playing in the World Series is the best part of it all, win or lose.
Though off to a disappointing start after losing their opening game Friday, nothing could dampen the fun for West Chester’s East Side Little League team Sunday as they hung out with the pros alongside their teammates during the Little League World Series MLB Classic.
Players from the Milwaukee Brewers and the Atlanta Braves came to Williamsport before their specialty game Sunday evening to sign balls, give high-fives and even play ping pong with the 12-and-under players from around the world.
“I got to play ping pong against Jacob Misiorowski and I beat him,” said Dillon DiGiulio, a first baseman and pitcher for East Side. “I was a little nervous. I was shaking.”
» READ MORE: Despite East Side’s loss at the Little League World Series, West Chester’s community offers support back home
A highlight for many young players during the 12-day Little League World Series is the MLB Little League Classic. Started in 2017, the event brings two MLB teams to Williamsport to play a friendly game and celebrate the youth that fuel excitement in baseball.
East Side players were divided on who would win that night’s game, some cheering for the Brewers and some for the Braves, but they were all thrilled for the chance to talk with players they look up to.
“My favorite part today has been getting all the signatures from the pros,” said Adam Zenis, a left fielder on the team. “We’re all really excited for the rest of the week, too.”
East Side will get its shot at redemption Monday, playing in the elimination bracket against the Southeast Region team from Phenix City, Ala. Ahead of the game, the 12-year-olds are feeling excited and confident.
For many of the players, though, the experience of playing in the World Series is the best part of it all, win or lose.
“My favorite part is just getting to hang out with all the different teams,” said Colton DeGrazio, a catcher on the team. “We’ve created so many bonds with teams and people around the world that we never even knew like Japan, Korea, and I just feel like that’s probably the coolest part.”
Though many of the boys root for different teams back home, from the Mets to the Phillies, it’s clear that every kid playing at the Little League World Series loves baseball to the bone.
“It’s just a dream come true, to be honest,” said East Side coach Bob Hennessey. “That’s every Little Leaguer’s dream. It was my dream growing up to see these boys get here and get to experience it. Nothing but amazing. I heard Colton say it’s an amazing experience to meet all these players and teams from around the world. So we’re lucky. We’re very lucky.”