Little League

Bloomingdale clubs dominate district play

By THOMAS SIMONETTI
Published July 13, 2005

TAMPA - Bloomingdale Little League took three age-group titles in the District 13 All-Star Softball Championships this week.

The majors, 11-year-olds and juniors all won and will represent the league in sectional tournaments.

"Years ago, I don't know if Bloomingdale was on the map," said majors coach and former major-leaguer Jeff Carter. "But we don't sneak up on anyone anymore because everybody has us on their radars."

Led by catcher Nicci Hopps, the majors won three straight games in four innings to advance to sectionals, blasting East Bay 13-0 in the district final. Hopps hit four home runs in the tournament, including a grand slam in the final game. McKenzie Carter went 4-for-7 at the plate.

The majors gave up just one hit in three games behind no-hitters from Jennifer Owens and Tory Bohanan and a one-hitter from Alexa Lopez.

The 11-year-old team needed just two games for the title, beating East Bay 17-0 and 17-7.

Marlie Braddy threw a no-hitter in the opener and Abby Hensley led the team from the mound in the final game.

At the plate, the 11-year-olds were led by leadoff hitter Shyann Camacho (two inside-the-park homers), Emilee Grem (5-for-6 with three doubles) and Olivia Cuellar (4-for-6).

Coach Mark Braddy echoed Carter about the perception of Bloomingdale Little League.

"When teams see Bloomingdale on our shirts, they expect a good team," Braddy said.

Bloomingdale's juniors won by default when Pinecrest couldn't field a team for the championship game.

All three teams begin sectional play Friday at Dade City Little League.

"It's going really well," District 13 director Leroy Lane said. "We've had to play some games at different locations because of rain. But all the parks are doing everything they can."

[Last modified July 13, 2005, 00:10:12]