Little League International, operator of more than 6,500 programs in more than 84 countries, recently recommended that leagues exercise caution in light of the coronavirus pandemic and implement a temporary suspension of all league activities until no earlier than May 11, 2020. The Little League Baseball World Series (LLBWS) is still scheduled to take place in Williamsport, Pennsylvania from August 20-30, 2020.
Italy's Emilia Romagna was the Europe-Africa representative at the 2019 LLBWS. In fact, teams from Emilia Romagna have made a LLBWS appearance in three out of the past four years and four of the five times an Italian squad has been present. Last year's talented team from Emilia Romagna at the time of the international tournament had four players who were under 12 years old, including two that were the youngest in the competition at age 10. Despite the odds, Emilia Romagna demonstrated maturity and poise far beyond their years.
In order to get to the 2019 LLBWS, Emilia Romagna had to dominate in the the regional tournament in Kutno, Poland, where the team outscored its opponents 27-7 in four games played. Resilient Emilia Romagna overcame a 6-0 deficit against Spain and scored eight consecutive runs to advance to the semifinals. At the 2019 LLBWS, the Italian representative nearly beat the American Northwest team from Sprague, Oregon but came up short in the narrow 4-3 loss. WIth many players returning to the Emilia Romagna team this year, it is hopeful the Italians will make it to Williamsport for another shot at the LLBWS. Forza #Italia!
by Roberto Angotti
