San Carlos 16U All-Stars headed to Babe Ruth World Series

SAN CARLOS PARK, Fla. — The San Carlos 16U All-Stars are preparing for the biggest tournament of their lives after winning the Southeast Regional championship and earning a spot in the Babe Ruth World Series in Branson, Missouri.

The team held its final practice before the trip this week, taking infield, outfield and batting practice ahead of its World Series opener next Friday.

San Carlos says it is just the third Southwest Florida team to qualify for the tournament.

“It’s definitely the ultimate goal,” third baseman Aidan Smith said. “I mean, we said it from the beginning. It was one thing we wanted to do, and made it happen. I mean, I didn't think we’d make it, but we did.”

The All-Stars punched their ticket with a dramatic comeback in the Southeast Regional final. San Carlos fell behind 7-0 before rallying for a 13-10 victory, scoring six runs in the final inning.

Head coach Greyson Huber said the players continued encouraging one another even as the deficit grew.

“They knew they were losing, but they didn’t give up,” Huber said. “They were sitting there, talking each other up, knowing they could win each at-bat, and the dugout didn’t get quiet.”

Many of the players have been teammates since they were about 6 years old, giving the World Series berth added meaning. The coach’s son, also named Greyson Huber, plays infield and pitcher for the team.

“We’re so excited for this,” the younger Huber said. “I mean, we’ve been waiting for a moment, really, most of our whole lives. We’ve been playing together for so long, all of us guys, we just have a great bond together, and to go to Branson together, it’s just an amazing experience.”

The run has required the players to devote much of their summer to practices and tournament games. Their coach said that commitment shows how badly the group wanted the opportunity.

“These guys are, they’re putting everything into every practice,” coach Huber said. “We’ve had long days, it’s taken up their whole summer. And, you know, to me, it’s just that they want it. They really do want it.”

The team is also fundraising for their trip, donations can be made here.

San Carlos opens World Series play next Friday against Mifflin County.