[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 143 (Wednesday, September 6, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1165]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE FAIRFIELD AMERICAN BASEBALL TEAM'S SUCCESSES AT THE 2017 
                       LITTLE LEAGUE WORLD SERIES

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JAMES A. HIMES

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 6, 2017

  Mr. HIMES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of 
the Fairfield American Little League baseball team following its 
participation in the 2017 Little League World Series.
   For years, Southwest Connecticut has produced outstanding baseball 
clubs, and 2017 was no exception. After an undefeated run in which they 
captured district, state and regional titles, Fairfield American went 
on to represent New England in the Little League World Series in 
Williamsport, PA. The team finished the season as the number three team 
in the country, defeating Washington and New Jersey twice before 
falling to eventual United States champion Texas. They were welcomed 
back to Connecticut with a grand celebration, receiving the key to the 
town of Fairfield from First Selectman Mike Tetreau.
   Fairfield American exemplified a spirit of hard work and commitment 
indicative of the motto they wore on the back of their t-shirts: Never 
Give Up. This group of exceptional young men shined on Little League's 
biggest stage, finding unwavering strength in themselves and one 
another. They played every game until the final out and never quit, 
even when the odds were against them.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me in recognizing everyone who made 
this season a reality; the coaches, Mike Randazzo, Jorge Rivera and 
Wayne Righter, who have spent countless hours instilling the value of 
hard work and sportsmanship; the parents, whose sacrifice and 
engagement ensured their children had an unforgettable summer; and the 
players--Andrew Cutler, Anthony Falletta, Anthony Pollack, Christian 
Smith, Ethan Righter, Griffin Dodder, Aidan Rivera, Leo Randazzo, 
Michael Iannazzo, Matthew Vivona, Owen Kalagher, Sean O'Neil, Troy 
Ashkinos and Tyler Bauer, who represented Connecticut proudly.

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