Some terrific individual performances helped lead the Howard Township 12U All-Stars to the Cal Ripken Michigan State Tournament championship at Fireman’s Park Sunday.

But in the end, it was a total team effort that led the all-stars to the championship.

On Saturday, Jadon Hainey tossed a no-hitter for Howard Township, while Jacob Luczkowski hit a two-run home run as the all-stars defeated Macomb-Clinton.

Drew Racht tossed a one-hitter as Howard Township knocked off Alpena.

In the championship game, Howard Township was locked up in a back-and-forth affair.

Nolyn Kankoviak’s two-run singled tied the game at 3-3 in the second inning, while Austin Bradley scored the go-ahead run on a double by Chase Lotsbaich, who would eventually score on a passed ball.

Lotsbaich came on in relief to pick up the victory for the all-stars.

“We had great defense from guys playing some positions they were not used to,” Howard Township coach Rich Mills said. “Hunter Fazi did a great job at second and had some timely hits. Jake Fletcher, Conner Pickens and Luczkowski all fought to be the fastest guy on the team and all stole at will when they were on base.

“Micah Gamble, as the tallest kid on the team, is probably the last guy you expected to drop a bunt down with two guys on to tie the game early on Friday. I believe our catcher Austin Bradley threw five or six out all weekend.

“The kid is going to be a fantastic catcher and he was proud to hold the role. Nolyn Jankoviak also delivered a two-run double earlier in the weekend. Our pitching from Chase Lotsbaich, Drew Racht and Jadon Hainey is what set us apart.”

 

Howard Township 9U

The Howard Township All-Stars went 5-0 to win the state championship.

The all-stars defeated Alpena in the title game 11-5 to win its third straight state title.

In reaching the finals, Howard Township defeated Alpena 15-7 Friday night. Zach Henrich earned the Most Valuable Player Award.

On Saturday, the all-stars knocked off Brandywine 14-4, rallying from a four-run first inning deficit.

Rick Morrison earned the MVP Award for the contest.

Howard Township improved to 3-0 Saturday night with a 16-2 win over Macomb. Henrich was again named MVP.

In the semifinals Sunday morning, Howard Township defeated Brandywine for a second time, 15-4, to advance to the championship game.

Alex Cole was named the MVP.

The all-stars advance to the Ohio Valley Regional Tournament being hosted by Mount Sterling, Kentucky.

Anyone wanting to donate to the team to help defray costs can email mamamorrison03@yahoo.com.