FAIRFIELD — The local Little League team came home champions, being the first team to make it to the World Series since Trumbull’s win in 1989. The FNLL were undefeated all season and on their way to win the World Series before losing the U.S. Championship game against Summerlin South in Las Vegas. Despite them striking out on the chance to win State champs, the team remained strong and confident as they played their game against Aruba.

With a group of young boys from nine to twelve years old, this team made history in Connecticut as one of the first teams in the state to make it to the World Series, but what most stood out was the support and unity of the coaches and other teammates. 

Apart from training and teaching on the field, the coaches “keep everyone motivated,” according to  Center Fielder Dante Madera. They also “coach in a way that is not too hard to understand,” said Second Baseman, Charlie McCullough. 

Not only did the team seal a victory, but making it to the World Series has also been a big feat for the coaches. Coach Dave Gryga says that some of the highlights of the year have been “watching the boys compete, having fun and meeting professional baseball players”. He further said that it is a great feeling to be a part of such a special group and a big community of families in every position, whether they’re coaches, players, or fans. 

The team reached its current status through many hours of practice, support from friends and family, coaches’ motivation and the foundation that the team has built and continues adding on to every year.

The Fairfield National Little League is the Little League team from Fairfield.

This article was written for the Yale Daily News’ 2025 Summer Journalism Program for high school students.