By Staff
The District 15 All-Stars, which represented the communities of Cassopolis, Centreville, Constantine, Mendon, Sturgis, Three Rivers and White Pigeon, recently captured the Michigan Little League Big League state championship.
The tournament was held in Constantine.
The All-Stars came through the consolation bracket, defeating District 5 champion Taylor twice, 9-3 and 4-3, in the semifinals. The All-Stars then defeated District 8 champion Traverse City twice, 10-7 and 8-7, to claim the state title.
Jason Rietveld of Cassopolis tossed a five-hitter in the championship game over five and a third innings. Billy Smith of Constantine, despite a sore arm, worked the remainder of the contest and earned a save.
Scott Alexander of Constantine turned in the defensive play of the tournament as he reached over the fence in the seventh inning to take away a game-tying home run.
The All-Stars continued on to play in the regional tournament which was held in Grand Rapids. No results of that tournament were available at press time.
The All-Stars were scheduled to compete against the likes of state champions from Illinois, Ohio, Iowa, Wisconsin, Kansas, Mississippi, Kentucky, South Dakota and North Dakota.
The winner of the regional tournament will compete in the World Series in South Carolina.