Coming off a 2024 summer where wins were hard to find in both the 10U and 12U divisions, the Elmwood Park 12U All Stars came into this summer with unfinished business — and they delivered. The squad went 8-8, secured a first-round home playoff win, and advanced to the second round in a summer that rewrote the narrative, reshaped the culture, and reignited belief.
“This season was full of tremendous growth and memories that will last a lifetime,” said Head Coach Dan C. “Some of my greatest memories will always be coaching and cheering you on — now and always.”
Offensive Fireworks: Alessandra R. led the charge with an eye-popping .541 batting average, 20 hits, and a team-high 21 runs scored. Her power was just as impressive, with a 1.334 OPS and a .730 slugging percentage that anchored the top of the order. Right behind her was Madison A., who hit a scorching .500 with 18 hits, 18 RBIs, and a ridiculous 1.239 OPS. Rounding out this offense’s power trio was Adriana G., who brought the fireworks with 3 triples, a .682 slugging percentage, a 1.230 OPS, and a rock-solid .364 average. Her 9 RBIs and 9 runs were key in multiple wins. Simply put — when the team needed production, these three delivered.
Victoria L. brought consistency and clutch, batting .419 with 18 hits and 15 runs. Her steady defensive play at first base could always be counted on. Layla H. posted one of the most productive seasons on the team. She hit .346, led the team with a .622 on-base percentage, scored 14 runs, and swiped 18 bags — all without ever getting caught. Stone cold.
“Most of these girls came back this summer remembering the sting of falling short last summer,” said Assistant Coach Brian G. “But they showed up with something to prove and played with an edge and a grittinesss that I was very proud to see. All of our comeback wins weren’t luck — they were earned.”
Depth, Speed, and Situational Grit: Victoria B. batted .318, scored 12 runs, and brought smart, aggressive base running, going 9-for-9 on stolen base attempts. Chloe R. contributed 9 hits and 7 RBIs, providing steady contact and dependable defense. Sophia T. was a run-producer with 13 RBIs, 11 runs, and 7 stolen bases — and a .242 batting average that consistently got the job done in big spots.
Naelani V. was lightning on the bases, swiping a team-high 27 bags at a perfect 100% clip. Add her 14 runs and 13 walks, and she was constantly putting pressure on defenses.
Emilia J. was the kind of player every team needs — dependable, adaptable, and always ready. Whether it was the infield or the outfield, Emilia stepped in wherever she was needed and made plays all season long. Charlie K. held it down behind the plate all summer, playing stellar defense at catcher. She gunned down five would-be base stealers and picked off five more runners with her heads-up play. Her toughness, instincts, and presence behind the dish gave the pitching staff a true field general.
Audrey C. made her presence known in big moments — tying for the team lead in triples and stepping into the pitching circle when the team needed her most. Her versatility and competitive fire helped solidify the team’s second-half surge.
“Big games, big moments, they’ll always be tough,” added Assistant Coach Felix H. “But you? You’re tougher. Great players don’t wait for easy — they learn to handle hard better.”
Assistant Coach Kuba added, “Every time we stepped onto that field, we brought our best selves and our unbreakable team spirit. Remember, it’s not just about the wins, but the effort, the unity, and the passion we put into every game. Together, we overcame many challenges, and I couldn’t be more proud.”
Pitching by Committee, Competing Every Inning: Madison A. led the staff with 26.2 innings, picking up 2 wins, 2 saves, and a team-best 5.63 ERA while striking out 30. Alessandra R. was the workhorse, throwing 26.1 innings over 9 games and tallying 31 Ks. Layla H. brought stability in key spots, appearing in 8 games and notching 22 strikeouts across 16.2 innings.
“It’s not the ending that defines us,” said Assistant Coach Mike K., “but the heart we put in every game.”
Assistant Coach Dita added, “No matter what the scoreboard says, my girls clocked it. Win or lose, I’m beyond proud of each of you—through every tough play and every great at-bat, it’s been the highlight of my summer to watch you guys grow and fight together.”
The Foundation Is Set From minimal wins last summer, to a .500 record, playoff win, and second-round run this summer — this team didn’t just improve, they evolved.
“We worked hard, we fought hard, and we left it all out there,” Assistant Coach Felix H. reflected. “And even though we didn’t come out on top, that doesn’t take away from who we are.”
What this group built went far beyond the field.
Coach Dan C. said it best: “Always remember to play like you did this season and never give up. Loud and proud — and always build each other up. You will be successful in not only this game, but life as well.”