LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Their bags are packed and a little league team from Henderson is heading to California.
If the Paseo Verde All Stars can win 4 games at the West Regional in San Bernardino, they will qualify to compete in the Little League World Series in Williamsport.
After winning the Nevada state championship, the Paseo Verde players got nothing but cheers from their families and proud parents during their send-off Friday morning.
"It’s really cool just to know how many people are behind you supporting you and wanting you to win," said Nolan Eberwein, a pitcher and shortstop on the team.
The team is made up of kids ages 12 and under and they all share the same goal of earning a trip to Williamsport, Pennsylvania and a spot in the Little League World Series.
"It’s awesome getting to think that we are going to be able to play in Williamsport. It’s gonna be great," said Shawn Mack, a right fielder and pitcher on the team.
Paseo Verde came back from two different deficits during last week's state championship game to pull off a dramatic win on a walk-off single in extra innings. They know the road to Williamsport will be tough, but they believe they've put in the necessary work to get them there.
"Six days a week, three hours at a time, it’s a lot of work being put into this. So, the anxiety is there and we’re ready to go," said assistant coach Tim Clark.
The team received some last minute motivation from Las Vegas resident and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer, Frank Thomas.
“Just remember, teamwork is dreamwork. You’re doing well so far. I wish you guys the best. Keep kicking butt. Keep believing in yourselves and good things will happen," said Thomas in his video message addressed to the team.
Players and coaches know they cant let their focus falter if they plan to ride their momentum to California and all the way to Williamsport.
"To get to the world series, it would just be a relief knowing that we got where we wanted to get," said Eberwein.
“I think we’ve had a good run so far, but we have farther goals we’d like to get to and we just have to take it one game at a time," added Sam Kemmer, a pitcher and shortstop on the team.
If you want to see the Paseo Verde All Stars in action their first game of the West Regional is this Sunday, August 4, at 9 a.m. on ESPN +.
