Published September 24, 2020

THE NRLL 11-year-old All-Stars are district champions. Pictured in the first row from left to right are Branden Levine, Nolan Pierce, Chris Libby and Brendan Gazda. In the second row from left are Ben Mahoney, James Nelson, James Wyatt, Christian Lava, Charlie Cooper, Cole Bakr, Glenn Mello and Tyler Boviard. In the third row are coaches Matt Libby, Mike Levine, Greg Mello, Shawn Wyatt and James Boviard. (Courtesy Photo)

NORTH READING — The 11-year-old North Reading Little League All Star team finished up an exciting and successful playoff run with an impressive 13-9 victory over Reading in the championship game on Sept. 18 at Benevento Memorial Field. The team held on for the victory in the pressure packed game after taking a 12-2 lead in the 3rd inning.

North Reading’s successful championship run included wins over Wakefield, Lexington, North Andover as well as Reading and was fueled by impressive pitching by Tyler Boviard and Branden Levine who combined to give up one earned run while striking out 45 over six games.

The Hornets were led at the plate by Christian Lava, Nolan Pierce, James Nelson and Charlie Cooper who set the tone early and often in each game including three home runs (two grand slams) by Lava during the playoffs. Further, Brenden Gazda, Cole Bakr, James Wyatt and Ben Mahoney also contributed significantly through production at the plate, key at bats and smart aggressive baserunning.

Both the pitching and offense was aided by a strong defensive effort in each game to help support the pitchers including the corner infield play of Chris Libby and Glen Mello.