Braintree, Massachusetts, August 9, 2025
News Summary
Braintree, Massachusetts made history by winning its first-ever New England regional championship in a thrilling 3-2 extra-inning game against Bedford, New Hampshire. The team’s victory secures a spot in the upcoming Little League World Series, marking a significant achievement for Braintree American, which boasts an undefeated 17-0 record this summer. The championship victory was marked by a dramatic bottom of the eighth inning where the winning run was scored via a wild pitch. Community support has been overwhelming as the team prepares for their monumental debut on the international stage.
Braintree, Massachusetts made history on Thursday night by winning the New England regional championship in an exhilarating extra-inning game against Bedford, New Hampshire. This victory, a nail-biting 3-2 finish, clinched Braintree American’s first-ever trip to the Little League World Series, set to take place in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, starting next Thursday.
The winning moment came in the bottom of the eighth inning when Braintree’s Frank Fasoli scored the decisive run on a wild pitch with the bases loaded. This strategic baserunning sparked a spirited celebration among players and fans alike, as the team celebrated their unprecedented achievement.
Braintree American’s journey to the World Series has been impressive. They boast an undefeated record of 17-0 this summer, following a series of dominant performances in the regional rounds, including overwhelming victories against Maine (15-0) and Vermont (10-0). The team’s only blemish in their journey was a fourth-inning tie game after an error allowed Bedford to equalize at 2-2.
Standout Performances
Colman Gouthro was a standout player for Braintree, displaying remarkable pitching skills by allowing just one run in six innings and striking out six batters. His performance alongside team members demonstrated the unity and support cultivated by their persistent coaching staff, including Frank Fasoli, PJ Kippenhan, and Shaun Needle, who have been together for five years.
Community Support
The support from the local community has been overwhelming. Watch parties filled with fans cheered on the team, further energizing the players through their journey. Braintree’s achievement marks the first time a Massachusetts team has won the New England Regional since Middleboro in 2022 and reflects the community’s enthusiasm for youth sports.
Background Context
This momentous victory is the culmination of a historic summer for Braintree American, as they also secured the Massachusetts state championship, marking the team’s first state title in over 70 years. The coaches emphasize team chemistry and collaborative effort, which has resonated through the players’ performances on the field. The moral of teamwork and community support has been crucial throughout their tournament run.
The upcoming Little League World Series will be a monumental occasion for the team as they prepare to face Irmo, South Carolina, next Thursday, pursuing further glory on an international stage. With their track record of performance and community backing, Braintree American enters the World Series with both anticipation and a sense of historic pride.
Key Highlights
- Braintree American defeats Bedford, New Hampshire, 3-2 in extra innings.
- First trip to the Little League World Series for Braintree American.
- Winning run scored on a wild pitch in the bottom of the eighth inning.
- Team boasts a perfect summer record of 17-0.
- Colman Gouthro allows only one run in six innings, striking out six batters.
- Community support witnessed through local watch parties.
FAQ Section
What is the Little League World Series?
The Little League World Series is an annual baseball tournament held in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, featuring the best youth teams from around the world.
When does Braintree American’s first game in the Little League World Series take place?
Braintree American’s first game will take place next Thursday against Irmo, South Carolina.
How did Braintree American perform leading up to the World Series?
Braintree American finished their summer with an undefeated record of 17-0, winning the Massachusetts state championship and the New England regional championship.
Who were the standout players in the championship game?
Colman Gouthro had an exceptional performance on the mound, allowing only one run and striking out six batters, while Frank Fasoli played a key role in scoring the winning run.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Irmo Little League All-Stars Head to World Series
Irmo Little League All-Stars Make History in World Series Bid
Additional Resources
- Patriot Ledger: Braintree American Busy Schedule at Little League World Series
- Wikipedia: Little League World Series
- CBS News: Braintree Little League World Series
- Google Search: Braintree American Little League
- MassLive: Braintree Advances to Little League World Series
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baseball
- WHDH: Braintree American to Little League World Series
- Google News: Braintree American Little League
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
