Natchtosh, Louisiana (KALB) – Iconic moments in Louisiana history are on display at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame.
Three years ago, one team from River Ridge, Louisiana made history in the Little League World Series, becoming the first group in the state to win the LLWS Championship.
Ryan Darrah, member of the Louisiana LLWS team, said:
After losing the first game of the tournament in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, the East Bank All-Stars bounced back from an at-bat for Reese Russel. Reese Roussel set a staggering .739 batting average with 17 hits in his seven games. Together, Roussel and the Bayou boys claimed the US Championship after he took revenge 9-5 against the Hawaiian team, and he shutout Curacao 8-0 in the LLWS Championship.
“That final out comes and you’re standing there as if I’m about to win the World Series.” It’s like being in, but it’s one of the best sensations in the world.”
Currently on display at Natchitoches’ museum are some of the team’s favorite items from the championship. From the jerseys and bats they used, to his baseball cards with their faces on them, and even the Air Force, from his M&M box he had when he flew in one.
“We’re a small team out of Louisiana in New Orleans, and we’ve come out on top,” says Darrah. “It feels great.”
Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser hosted a ceremony at the museum for the players and their families.
The LLWS Championship run will be on display at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Museum through July 2023.
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