FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ — The Freehold Township Little League team is off to the Junior League World Series after winning the USA East regional tournament.
Set to take place Aug. 9-17, the Junior League Baseball World Series will be held in Taylor, Michigan.
According to the Junior League World Series (JLWS), this will mark the third time a team from Freehold has played in Taylor, with the other two times in 2005 and 2010.
The champions will open play in this year's World Series for the top teams of 13- and 14-year-old players at 4 p.m. on Sunday (Michigan time) against hometown Taylor North, the Michigan District 5 champions and host team of the JLWS.
Before the team heads out to Michigan to compete, Freehold Township will host a Community Pep Rally & Send Off on Wednesday, which will begin at 6:30 p.m. on 65 Georgia Road.
"These accomplishments are a reflection of the countless hours dedicated by our players, coaches, volunteers, families, and supporters," the township said in an online post. "They also showcase what can be achieved when an entire community rallies behind its youth."
"We would be honored to have you join us as we celebrate these outstanding young athletes before they represent Freehold Township, the State of New Jersey, and the East Region on the world stage."
"Your presence would mean a great deal to our players and their families and would serve as a visible reminder of the Township's commitment to the young people and organizations that make our community so special," the township continued.
"Thank you for your continued support of youth athletics and the families of Freehold Township."
For those who wish to support the team and their families on this journey, an online fundraiser has been started to help support the costs of travel, lodging, meals and other expenses.
The GoFundMe has a goal of $36,000. As of Wednesday afternoon, $5,420 has been raised.
"We invite the community to rally behind these dedicated athletes and their families," fund organizer Michael Sweeney wrote. "Your support will help make their dreams possible and show them that Freehold and New Jersey are cheering them on every step of the way."
In addition to the Freehold Township Little League team, Toms River Little League has also moved on in the Little League Softball World Series.
To learn more about the Junior League World Series, you can visit their website.
Freehold's match against Taylor North will take place at at 4 p.m. on Sunday (Michigan time) and be available to watch on ESPN+
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Editor's Note: This article was updated with photos of the Freehold Township Little League team and recent coverage of the Toms River Little League team's Softball World Series journey.
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