During the week of July 27 through Aug. 2, the local Foothill Knights Baseball Academy sent a team of 12-year-old ballplayers to Cooperstown, New York to participate in a nationwide baseball tournament of 104 teams. Cooperstown is home to the iconic National Baseball Hall of Fame.

The Foothill Knights earned a 30th overall rank after pool play and came close to advancing to the Sweet 16 by nearly ousting the No. 3 seed from Florida. Many players share a special highlight of cheering on their teammate, Luke Wyatt, as he battled to represent the Academy as a finalist in the Home-Run Derby known as the “King of Swat.” Luke was one home run away from being the crowning champion of over 100 competing ballplayers. 

The mantra at Cooperstown Dreams Park is “Live the Dream.” Noah Godson, the lone 10-year-old on the team, said, “It’s baseball heaven. I can’t wait to go back.” 

The coaching staff affirms that this year was far more than a mere baseball experience. 

“Our year-long journey together truly was a magical experience of building genuine brotherhood and our Cooperstown run was an unforgettable capstone experience that will resonate in our hearts for a lifetime,” said Coach Josh Godson, the Academy’s executive director.

Willie Rivera, the Academy’s director of Baseball Operations and St. Francis High School varsity assistant coach, managed the team as its head coach. 

“I’ve been several times in the past, but this was my favorite year because this team developed a special bond that will continue for years to come,” said Rivera.