You may have of heard of the team of boys that represented the city of St. Petersburg in the 2001 sister city celebration in Takamatsu, Japan. The team came from the Fossil Park Florida Little Major League program. Well, in July the park experienced another major accomplishment, its first Florida Little Junior League Championship Title. The title of State Champs has been held by several of the younger teams from the park, but had eluded the older boys aged 13-14.

Fossil Park defending player puts the tag on a Keywest baserunner

Flawless Champion Defense

Combined with superb pitching and powerful defensive skills, this club was committed to bring home the first place trophy once again. (photo courtesy of keynews.com)

The team, led by a group of experienced coaches began their quest in the District Tournament held at Warhawk stadium in Seminole. The team was undefeated earning them a trip to Key West, as well as a chance at the state title. The tournament got off to a slow start when the team lost their first game to Messar Park from Tallahassee. It was a real wake up call for Fossil Park who came out fired up for game two against the Key West Conchs. It was a real emotional game, which came to a screeching halt after a wild pitch hit one of the Fossil Park players. After the game resumed Fossil Park pulled out the victory, beating their long time rivals 10-6. Fossil’s next game was no contest as they breezed past the Seminole Warhawks 33-0. Their place in the Final Four was locked in when Key West lost to Messar Park later the same day, putting Fossil in second place in the final four standings. The semi-final game proved to be tough, pitting Fossil against a team from West Duval, Jacksonville. West Duval held Fossil to only two runs, which was just enough to give Fossil the 2-1 victory over West Duval. This win put them in the Championship game against Meridian Park from Tallahassee. After four days of tough competition, Fossil Park’s determination and will to win was too much for Meridian Park. By the 5th inning it was clear that Fossil would bring home the trophy.

Although only two players can be selected as MVPs, offensive and defensive, all of the boys should be commended for good sportsmanship and their commitment to win. The defensive MVP was the Jose Ramos, on offense it was Gordon Mclean. The manager of the team is JD Davis. The coaches are Johnny Lancaster, Jose Ramos and Bobby Hamilton. The score keeper is Byron Wright.