The Howell Central Little League 11-year-old tournament team won the District 11 championship.
This was no small accomplishment, because Howell Central had not won the district in this age division since 1972. The victory was even sweeter for the boys because they went undefeated in four games.
Manager John Casaletto, along with coaches Vinnie Prestia and Alex Craig, had this talented team coached like a well-oiled machine. Joe Purcaro’s pitching in the first game was exciting to watch, as he struck out 13 batters. Pitching was not the only talent of Joe Purcaro that night, as he also hit a double with two RBIs. Teammate Brandon Kolczynski also had two clutch hits and an RBI, ensuring the 4-1 victory over Ocean South in the first game.
Howell Central then went on to meet with North Wall. Rob Hodge was on the mound that evening, pitching like a composed veteran. Pitch after pitch was smooth and accurate. Observing this game with John Ward catching, one would think that these young boys were much older than their years. Two base hits from Brandon Kolczynski, and a bases-clearing double by Ryan Valentine, secured the win with a 5-1 final score.
The boys then advance to face Manasquan Brielle in the third game. Manasquan Brielle had also been undefeated in the tournament prior to this game. Purcaro once again got the job done, by striking out 10 batters. The Howell Central bats that evening were on fire, with base hits from Hodge, Joe Purcaro, Drew Wares, Cody Hubbs and Steven Binckes. These hits brought home the 9-2 victory over Manasquan Brielle.
Howell Central was in a unique situation in game four. The opponent, Howell South, would have to win twice against them for the District 11 title. This tight game had the lead switching back and forth between these two Howell teams. Behind the pitching that evening of Hodge, and the determined closer Wares, the Howell Central bats once again came alive. Hits from Hodge, Wares, Valentine, John Ward, Ted Smith and a clutch hit with bases loaded and two outs from Nick Craig brought home the long awaited District 11 title, with a final score of 8-7.
Throughout the tournament Howell Central’s talented defense prevailed, with amazing fielding by Nick Prestia, John Ward, Kolczynski, and Smith. Craig and Smith’s speed as pinch runners, added to the winning strategy. Offensive highlights include a home run off the bat of Hubbs.
Upon winning the District 11 championship Howell Central earned the opportunity to compete in the Final Five section tournament in Washington Township.