The Little Texas Shootout at Don Edwards Park in Newark turned into a showcase of rising local talent over the weekend, with six teams from Licking County battling for early-season momentum.
Warriors’ comeback
The Eastside Warriors 14U squad, after a prior defeat, rallied to secure two decisive victories, beating the Central Ohio Smash 15U by a 18‑0 margin and the Licking County Crusaders 14U by 12‑0.
Coach J.T. Starkey, who leads the Warriors, repeatedly stressed the team’s mantra of staying focused on every play, a lesson that seemed to pay dividends as the scoreboard reflected dominance.
The Crusaders, in their inaugural season, drew players from Heath, Granville and Newark, illustrating the depth of regional participation, while assistant coach Ryan Morgan highlighted the chemistry that has developed among the youngsters.
Beyond the scores, the tournament underscored a broader trend: coaches are increasingly turning to local events within a 40‑mile radius, finding both competitive balance and community engagement at venues like Don Edwards Park, which will host several more competitions through early July.
Future prospects
The A's, coached by Mike Seifert, brought a core group of players who have trained together for four years, positioning them as the next wave of Blue Aces prospects, a narrative that mirrors the long‑term development goals of the county’s baseball ecosystem.
Organizers, including tournament director Phil Henthorn, emphasized that these grassroots gatherings not only nurture talent but also reinforce the fabric of small‑town sports, offering a platform where emerging athletes can be scouted and celebrated.