Western Springs Upper Deck Cougars Take Road Trip Of a Lifetime

The Western Springs 11U Upper Deck Cougars baseball team headed to Omaha, NE last weekend for the trip of a lifetime. The 14 players participated in the Triple Crown SlumpBuster, the world's largest youth baseball tournament with hundreds of teams from 36 states competing for the national championship. 

Over the course of the weekend, they played in three games against teams from Kansas, Texas and Colorado, finishing up with a 1-2 record. The team also attended the opening ceremonies of the College World Series where the highlight was trading team "pins" with other teams. They also took in some World Series  games.

"I heard from other coaches that the SlumpBuster was a great tournament and I knew the team would enjoy going," said Pat Hincks, the team's coach. "All our games were finished by the afternoon so we all could enjoy the College World Series activities later in the day."

Sam Whalen, 11, who plays second base, third base and outfield for the Cougars, has been looking forward to the trip all season.

"It was great playing against good teams, hanging out with my teammates, and watching the NCAA World Series," Sam said. "You have to work very hard to play baseball but it all pays off because it is so much fun."

Teammate Paddy Hincks agrees.

"I've been playing baseball since I was 4 years old," Paddy said. "I love the feeling of making contact with the ball."

On Friday the team attended the opening ceremonies of the World Series. The all-day celebration included interactive games, displays, prizes and photo opportunities, baseball skills clinics and home run derby field. A performance by Martina McBride and a fireworks display ended the evening.