Father and Son Cherish Little League World Series Memories
Residents of Boerne recently gathered to welcome home their Little League All-Star team after their impressive fourth-place finish in the Little League World Series in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Despite heavy rains, a crowd of around 3,500 people showed up to celebrate the team’s accomplishments.
The Boerne Little League team, managed by Justin Newson, had an impressive 17-game winning streak leading up to the national championship matchup. Unfortunately, they fell short in the final two games of the tournament, but their journey was nothing short of inspiring.
In a recent interview with Texas Standard, Justin Newson and his son, Kole Newson, shared their experiences and reflections on the exciting season.
### A Warm Welcome Home
Justin Newson expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support the team received upon their return to Boerne. The warm reception from friends and family, as well as the entire community lining the streets to welcome them back, left a lasting impression on the players, coaches, and families.
The sight of fire trucks and the whole town turning out to celebrate their achievements was reminiscent of a scene from a Norman Rockwell painting—a true display of small-town pride and support.
### A Season to Remember
Reflecting on the team’s journey to the Little League World Series, Justin Newson noted that the realization of their potential came early in the season. With a roster of talented players and a strong sense of camaraderie, the team’s success became more evident as they progressed through the qualifying tournaments.
Despite facing tough competition and experiencing both highs and lows throughout the season, the players maintained a positive outlook and played for each other, embodying the true spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship.
### Overcoming Challenges
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Boerne Little League team’s journey was the resilience shown by Kole Newson, who had undergone open-heart surgery due to a heart condition a few years prior. His determination to not only return to the field but excel at the national level was truly inspiring.
As a father and coach, Justin Newson acknowledged the significance of being able to share this experience with his son, emphasizing the pride and joy he felt watching Kole compete alongside his teammates on the national stage.
### Grand Slam Glory
Kole Newson, a standout player on the team, shared some of his most memorable moments from the tournament. His grand slam in the opening game, a feat he had never achieved before, was a highlight of his baseball career. The excitement of hitting the ball out of the park and the realization that it was a home run made the experience unforgettable.
In addition to his individual achievements, Kole also cherished the team’s victory over Pennsylvania in their hometown and the opportunity to interact with players from different countries, experiencing the diversity and camaraderie of the international competition.
### A Journey of Recovery and Triumph
Despite facing adversity early in his life, Kole Newson’s recovery from surgery and subsequent return to sports showcased his resilience and determination. He underwent a period of recovery before gradually easing back into baseball and football, eventually reaching a point where he felt fully recovered and ready to compete at his best.
Looking back on the Little League World Series, Kole highlighted the grand slam as his top memory, followed by the team’s victory over Pennsylvania and the cultural exchange with players from around the world. These experiences not only shaped his perspective on the game but also left a lasting impact on his overall journey.
### Conclusion
The journey of the Boerne Little League team, led by Justin Newson and his son Kole, was a testament to the power of teamwork, resilience, and the unwavering support of the community. Despite the challenges they faced and the ultimate outcome of the tournament, their memories and experiences will continue to inspire and uplift not only the players but also the entire town of Boerne. As they reflect on their remarkable season, the Newson family and the entire team can take pride in their accomplishments and the lasting memories created on the fields of the Little League World Series.
