Little League Renegades place second at state tourney

MEEKER | The Colorado River Valley Renegades 12-and-under baseball team traveled last week to the state tournament in Thornton, Colo., placing second after losing to Academy. Clay Randall-Crawford and Ethan Quinn represented Meeker on the all-star team after a nomination from their coaches and successful tryouts.
The Meeker Gators were coached by Brian Holmes and Jason Browning. Coach Browning said, “Ethan was a great kid who had a great season for the Gators. Ethan was our best and most consistent pitcher and his bat was also excellent all season.” Baseball is the longest season players at this age participate in. The season begins in March and terminates in July or August, Randall and Quinn played in 35 games throughout the season, and for the last 10 games of the year traveled to Silt five times a week practicing for three hours each night, and spent five days or more away from home for tournaments.
Ron Kelly, Donald Blazon and Kyle Arnold coached the Meeker Mariners and nominated Randall. Randall, a left fielder, catcher and all around player said he “liked how competitive the Renegades team was and it helped him improve as a player.” Renegades coach Josh Wright said of Randall and Quinn that “already being great athletes, they have a want to become better and have positive attitudes.”
Ryan Harlow and Steve Simmons also coached alongside Wright to lead the Renegades undefeated through district play and onto the state tournament.
The 12 and under state tournament was a double elimination tournament, Academy came from behind to defeat the Renegades in a double header. Quinn pitched in all four games, “helping to deliver the Renegades some wins,” said Wright, and Randall “helped turn the momentum in a game with his batting.” Wright continues that “ the dedication not only of the boys but from the families was impressive. It was an honor to be one of their coaches.”
Quinn and Randall would like to thank all of the local Meeker companies that supported them in their post-season play, without the support the season would not have been possible.
Sponsors:
7 Forks Ranch, Wyatt’s Sporting Goods, Watt’s Ranch Market, White River Inn, Outfitters Diner, Prescriptions Salon and Spa, Cimarron Telecommunications, Rio Blanco Abstract, Napa Auto Parts, Northwest Auto—Lee Overton, McGuire Auto Parts, Ducey’s Electric, State Farm—Kevin Amack, Jason’s Automotive, Meeker Golf Course, Mexican House, Moody Construction, Wendll’s, Ma Famiglia