Webb City 12U Little League Baseball Preps for Regionals After Winning State Title

WEBB CITY, MO – Webb City 12U Little League is heading to regionals. Despite the Cardinals success, the group would overcome many challenges in 2024.

Facing elimination in the state finale, Webb City came back after trailing 5-0 in the late innings. Scoring six unanswered runs, team head coach Cole Shewmake said the journey took serious work ethic and grit.

“Baseball is a game where if you want to be successful, you have to fail often,” said Shewmake.

“It’s an opportunity to learn work ethic and grit, it’s kind of been our motto all season long.”

In what was a game to remember, the Cardinals took down Daniel Boone 6-5 to win state. Joel Beverlin and Creed Shewmake, both players on the Cardinals, said energy is what separated them from their competition.

“In the dugout we were all going crazy and we had a bunch of energy in the last inning,” said Beverlin.

“It was a super cool experience,” said Shewmake.

“I did lose my voice from yelling a lot, and getting in that pitcher’s head,” Shewmake said laughing.

After pulling off a massive comeback, the Cardinals now head back to Whitestown, Indiana to compete in the Midwest Regional tournament. Max Woodmansee, also a member of the 12U Cardinals, said the experience is a very special one.

“It’s very special. I’ve been there, and the experience is always a lot of fun. I’m really looking forward to it,” said Woodmansee.

Losing in regionals last year, coach Shewmake said his group is up to the challenge in 2024. When they hit the diamond, they’ll be playing together, but also representing their home.

“We’ve talked to the boys about being members of Webb City and the community, and how proud they are of all of it,” said Shewmake.

“These boys are definitely up to the challenge to represent their city and show off their skills.”

As the Cardinals gear up to face Nebraska on August 2nd, the team is hard at work on the practice fields. For Shewmake, however, what matters most is the boys’ character.

“The coolest thing about these kids, is not only are they talented, but they also have great character and come from great families,” said Shewmake.

Webb City will face Nebraska at 10 a.m. from Whitestown, Indiana on Friday, August 2nd. The game will also be streamed on ESPN+.

The Webb City team will be participating in the ‘Helmet block’ at the intersecton of Madison and Broadway in Webb City from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you are interested in making a donation to the team CLICK HERE .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com.