The 11U Newtown Hawks had another remarkable season as this group, in early August, clinched its second New England Regional championship. Newtown has secured three Connecticut state titles and two New England Regional championships in the past three years, even after the team opted out of last year’s regional championship as a condition of securing an at-large bid to the 2024 Cal Ripken World Series.

The regional tournament opened with a skills competition, where Quinn Garvin of Newtown emerged victorious in the home run derby. Jackson Christos won the bunting competition, and Chris Fairbairn, Owen Leighton, Hudson Matta, and Anthony Ripley secured the infield around-the-horn contest. In pool play, Newtown won all three of its games by defeating Eastern Massachusetts champion Lowell by a score of 7-3, Maine champion Noble 7-0, and New Hampshire representative Dover 11-2.

After securing a first-round bye, the Hawks faced off against their perennial rivals, New Canaan, in the semifinals. The latest contest between the two resulted in an epic battle that stretched three extra innings. Finally, in the ninth inning, Newtown emerged victorious 3-2 when Jacob Christos worked a walk, stole a base, and scored from second on a bunt by Austin Luczak. This thrilling game showcased exceptional pitching performances from Austin Luczak, and Owen Leighton.

The game and tournament highlight came in the top of the eighth inning when Hudson Levy made a remarkable play in center field. He ranged to his glove side, caught a deep fly ball on the run, and fired a laser to Chris Evans at the plate. Evans tagged out the runner attempting to advance from third base, securing the double play and preventing the go-ahead run. Another potential game-saving play was made by Braxton Kuzma when he fielded a ball well behind first base after sprinting over from the second base hole, and fired to the pitcher covering the bag.

In the championship game, Newtown faced Noble, Maine, with Hudson Matta on the mound for the entire duration of the game. Newtown secured the championship with a convincing 6-0 victory, scoring three runs in the second inning and three more in the third. The Hawks have qualified for the 12U Cal Ripken World Series in August 2026, marking their third World Series appearance.

Despite qualifying, the team will not compete in the World Series this year as the group chose to defer to next year so it can fundraise.