Championship Night Sparks a Wave of Honors
The culmination of the 99th American Legion World Series produced not only a memorable game but also a slate of awards that spotlighted the tournament’s most impactful contributors. From offensive fireworks to dominant pitching performances, the accolades reflect a blend of statistical dominance and character-driven recognition.
Colin Flurry of Tupelo, Mississippi, Post 49 emerged as the offensive centerpiece, earning the Big Stick Award after amassing 25 total bases. His teammate Ryan Hemsley from Portland, Oregon, Post 158 secured the Slugger Award with a .619 batting average, underscoring a tournament where hitting prowess was at a premium.
Brayden Erickson of Lincoln, Nebraska, Carpet Land Post 500 was credited with 20 RBIs, capturing the Click Cowger RBI Award, while Zach Papik of Bedford, New Hampshire, Post 54 dominated the mound, leading all pitchers with the most strikeouts and claiming the Bob Feller Award.
Leadership and sportsmanship were also celebrated. The coaching staff of Lincoln, Nebraska, Carpet Land Post 500 — comprising Mychal Lanik, Rob Knaak and Noah Kulhenek — received the Jack Williams Leadership Award, and Carter Harcek of Midland, Michigan, Berryhill Post 165 earned the James F. Daniels Jr. Sportsmanship Award for exemplifying teamwork and fair play.
Brodie McIntire, also from Lincoln, Nebraska, Carpet Land Post 500, was named the George W. Rulon American Legion Baseball Player of the Year, capping a season that combined offensive production with defensive reliability.
The All‑Tournament Team featured a diverse group of standout players, including Jayden Mieske, Eli McDaniels, Gehrig Severidt, Wyatt McDaniels, Dele Odulate, Javon Haynes, James Gilbert, Kalai Larsen, Ryan Frye and Cooper Berta, each selected based on performance and character.