The 2026 Little League World Series unfolded in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, where 20 teams from across the United States and abroad competed in a double‑elimination format that tested both endurance and skill.
The Road to Williamsport
Tacoma’s Soundview Little League earned its spot by navigating the Northwest Region qualifier and traveling to the Pennsylvania venue. Their opening three games illustrated a roller‑coaster of outcomes: a 0‑5 loss to the Mountain team on Sunday, a 4‑3 victory over Texas on Friday, and a 2‑0 win against the Southeast Region on Wednesday.
The final showdown arrived on Tuesday, August 25, when the Tacoma squad faced the Southeast Region champions, Phenix City. The game ended 4‑2 in favor of Phenix City, sealing Tacoma’s tournament exit while leaving a lasting impression of resilience.
A Record‑Setting Performance
Kinley Rasmus, who started at shortstop and also pitched for Tacoma, etched her name into tournament history by recording five hits, establishing a new benchmark for girls in the Little League World Series. Her contribution underscored a season defined by standout moments.
Beyond Rasmus’s achievement, the team’s pitching staff and defensive alignment limited opponents to modest scoring totals, while the offense managed just eight runs across four contests. Coaches Kyle Yarbrough, Albert Weaver, and Mark Landry guided a roster that included Anthony Romero, Artie Hinzman, and Rhonan Loomis.
Looking ahead, Tacoma is slated to meet the loser of the Midwest versus Metro game in its next tournament matchup, a prospect that promises another chance at advancement for the Pacific Northwest representatives.