Waterford Little League captured the Connecticut Section 2 championship on Tuesday, defeating Madison 8-5 in a tightly contested game that showcased both offensive bursts and defensive miscues.
A Game Defined by Clutch Moments
The decisive blow came in the top of the third inning when James Smith III launched a three‑run home run that put Waterford ahead and shifted the momentum firmly in their favor.
Reliever Jack Paxton entered the game and delivered a solid outing, scattering five hits while striking out three, earning the win for his team.
Manager Israel Feliciano Sr. praised his squad’s resilience, noting that the victory was built on perseverance despite an atypical offensive night that yielded only three hits.
Madison’s manager Chris Boynton acknowledged that defensive lapses proved costly, emphasizing the importance of clean play in championship contests.
The opposition’s William Jankiewicz had earlier tied the game at 5 with a bases‑clearing double in the second inning, but Waterford’s defense and timely hitting ultimately prevailed.
With the title secured, Waterford will now travel to face Section 2 runner‑up Southington in the State Final Four scheduled for July 28, a matchup that promises another test of their growing prowess.
The team’s previous three games had been decided by a combined score of 40‑7, underscoring a dominant stretch that has propelled them into the spotlight.
Madison, despite a strong offensive showing with seven hits, committed three errors that ultimately cost them the championship.