South Mission Viejo Little League Celebrates 20th Anniversary Of National Championship

MISSION VIEJO, CA — It's been 20 years since the "boys of summer" from South Mission Viejo Little League brought home the big prize in 1997 with the USA Championship. On opening day, Ashton White, a center fielder and Gary Gattis took a moment to reflect on their Williamsport, PA victory.

All gathered at the South Mission Viejo Little League's Opening Day, and were interviewed by Coaches Corner commentator Paul Higgins.

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The national champions of 1997 returned to their home field, including Gary Gattis, Ashton White, Greg Oates, Gavin Fabian, Adam Sorgi, Adam Elconin, Matt Cusick, Chad Lucas, Taylor Bennett and Andrew Nieves.

"It was weird walking back and seeing everyone, and seeing the field, it was surreal," Ashton White said. "We told stories, and it was great to have the kids out to see everything. It was cool."

Little league was a great place to build character, according to Gary Gattis, whose father was team manager back in the day.

Neither White nor Gattis have children yet, but both consider possibly coaching little league in the future. Both recall the fun of the experience, even with all of the seriousness of the competition.

"Work hard, but have fun," Ashton said. "Don't forget that it is a game and you are supposed to have fun while you're playing it."

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