RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) - The North Carolina Little League baseball team that challenged for the world title was feted Wednesday by the state’s elected leaders, who praised them for their on-the-field accomplishments and for representing the state well to those who watched them.
The General Assembly welcomed players, their parents and coaches for the North State All-Stars team based in Greenville, honoring them with a special proclamation and recognition during its daily floor sessions. Team members also planned to have lunch with legislators and staff.
The Greenville team became the first U.S. team in a Little League World Series to throw consecutive no-hitters during this month’s tournament in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The team lost in the U.S. championship last Saturday and finished fourth in the world.
Sen. Don Davis represents parts of Greenville and said he went to Pennsylvania to see the team play. He said on the Senate floor that the youngsters’ accomplishments endeared them to the fans attending the event.
“They have brought great honor to the city of Greenville, and also to Pitt County and the state of North Carolina,” said Sen. Louis Pate, also representing Greenville. The House planned to honor the team later Wednesday before players returned to Greenville for an evening recognition ceremony at a local park, where Gov. Roy Cooper is supposed to speak.
Chase Anderson, Matthew Matthijs and Carson Hardee combined for 10 strikeouts and no walks to complete the seventh perfect game in Little League World Series history in a 6-0 victory over Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Two days later, Greenville walloped Rancho Santa Margarita, California, 16-0, in five innings - the game was halted because of the mercy rule.
Last Wednesday, Matthijs struck out 12 in 4 1-3 innings in Greenville’s 2-1, seven-inning victory over Lufkin, Texas. In the U.S. championship, Lufkin rallied from a 5-0 deficit to take a 6-5 win to advance to the championship game. Mexico then beat Greenville 14-8 in the third-place game last Sunday.
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