GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn. (ESPN CLARKSVILLE) – Clarksville National Blue 8 year old All Star team swept the Little League State Tournament in Goodlettsville, TN last week.
This team comprised of twelve boys who participated in summer little league through Clarksville National remained undefeated through both the District and State Tournament. CNLL Blue fought their way undefeated through both District 9 and the State tourney playing a total of 8 games with an overall score of 109 runs by CNLL and only 23 by their opponents. The final game against Goodlettsville National was a close one going six innings with a score of 10-9.
This team was led by an exemplary coaching staff, which taught these boys the skills necessary to defeat their opponents. Head Coach Matt Wallace brought a long history as a coach and showed a patience and positive energy that kept this team focused on their goal. Coach Wallace stated, “This combination of coaches set the stage for a winning a team. Seth Haselhuhn is a baseball guy who knows every facet of the game. His patience and desire to truly teach these kids baseball strengthened our team in so many ways. Frazier Allen is the best coach pitcher in the state of Tennessee. Our boys knew when they stepped in that box, that Coach Allen would put it in their sweet spot. Brian Pledger encouraged and motivated this team while keeping everyone in the right spot.”
These coaches brought their love for the game and their desire to lead this team to the top prize.
The Clarksville National Blue 8 year old team consisted of: Benton Barksdale, Garrett Allen, Callum Stokes, Beckett Haselhuhn, Evan Mixon, Kayden Pledger, Colton Wallace, Dawson Smith, Cooper Nebben, Porter Murff, Carter Hedrick, and Dalton Byrd.
“This group of 8 year olds refused to quit and played their best baseball. They spent long hours and put in the work necessary to become champions. I could not be more proud of this team, their coaches and the families who supported us,” Coach Wallace said.