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Photo courtesy of Lake Norman Little League

By Ryan Moxon — Lake Norman Little League accomplished something this summer that a team from North Carolina has done only a handful of times in history — advance to the Southeast Regional tournament in back-to-back years while going undefeated.

While the U12 All-Stars fought until the final out, they will not advance to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, after losing two close games this past weekend in Warner Robins, Georgia.

Weather delays forced the postponement of Thursday’s opening game, prompting tournament organizers to shuffle the bracket and condense play. Lake Norman opened Friday morning against Alabama, falling behind early before storming back with five runs in the final two innings. Alabama scored two more runs in the final frame to escape with an 8-5 win.

Brayden Best hit a home run. Jace Beck had a double and two RBIs. Luke Slusher and Matthew Willaford each had a double.

The loss moved Lake Norman into the elimination bracket and a second game just hours later Friday night against Virginia. Despite a solid defensive effort and strong pitching from Slusher, Lake Norman lost 1-0 in extra innings.

“Our team motto was Team First Always — and they all grew as players and made positive contributions to the team,” said coach John Caldwell, who noted the team was singled out for its camaraderie and sportsmanship.

“These 12-year-olds had the summer of their lives experiencing the joys of competition. The skills and fundamentals practiced will propel them as they graduate youth sports and transition into middle and high school athletics. And the values, character and memories made will last a lifetime.”

Caldwell thanked league president Jerri Shephard and team volunteers for their efforts this summer.

“The friendships made on and off the field with teammates, opponents, parents, grandparents, siblings, spectators and everyone else involved are so appreciated and special,” he said.

Alabama advanced to the championship game Tuesday and will await the winner of Monday’s game between Florida and Tennessee.