The community came together to honour the pre-teen players who shone a spotlight on Langley.

By Heather Colpitts, Langley Advance September 2, 2011

Fans of all ages cheered on the Langley Little League squad. Photograph by: Heather Colpitts, Langley Advance

Langley’s Little League champs were honoured by politicians and the public Thursday evening. “I know this team did Langley proud in so many ways,” said Langley City Mayor Peter Fassbender.

Township Mayor Rick Green said these 11- and 12-year-olds represented Langley and Canada on the world stage. He invited them to the Sept. 19 meeting to receive certificates from the Township. “We could not be more proud,” he said.

B.C. Minister for Sport Ida Chong and Langley MP Mark Warawa offered provincial and federal congratulations to the boys on their being Canadian champions and competing in the Little League World Series in Wiliamsport, Pa.

Team manager Dean Cantelon explained to the crowd just what the boys’ summer was like and what they sacrificed. Because they kept winning, first at the regional then provincial then national level, the boys were under curfews.

Since June 15, Langley players have been on the field pretty much every day. With the help of families, the players were told to eliminate junk food, not an easy task during summer. “I’m sure the boys no longer want to see veggie platters for dinner,” Cantelon joked.

As well, there was no swimming or high risk sports allowed so the players could focus on baseball. It paid off. “The baseball gods have been good to Langley players this year,” Cantelon said. Copyright (c) Langley Advance