Palos Verdes’ Silver Spur Little League (SSLL) has achieved an extraordinary feat this season, marking a significant milestone in the league’s 66-year history. The 13U baseball team became the first-ever SSLL team to secure a spot in the California State Tournament. With unwavering dedication from players, families, and coaches, SSLL triumphed over formidable opponents to clinch the Peninsula’s inaugural State tournament victory and its first Sectional title.
Despite an impressive run, SSLL’s journey culminated in a tough loss against Encinitas LL in the final game of the 2023 California State Championships. However, the team’s remarkable performance showcased exceptional sportsmanship and pride for representing the Palos Verdes community. Coach Richard Blanch, a former college baseball player who relocated to Palos Verdes from New York, expressed his pride, saying, “They represented our Silver Spur Little League and the Palos Verdes community at large with class and dignity.”
Coaches Richard Blanch and Jerry Spradlin, both former baseball players, share a passion for coaching and instilling high-level baseball skills in young players. This shared vision led them to establish a positive learning environment within SSLL, introducing 50/70 baseball, a format designed to prepare players for higher-level play. This initiative has been successful, allowing players to develop essential skills and techniques earlier in their baseball journey.
The transition to 50/70 baseball was a significant step for the Palos Verdes area, as players previously had to adapt to different field dimensions upon reaching higher levels of play. This format mimics MLB style baseball with shorter distances than the official MLB field. The commitment to providing proper coaching and guidance has yielded fruitful results, evident in the team’s accomplishments.
As the team progressed through the District 36 title and Section 4 Tournament, coaching strategies became more intense. Coach Wil Aaron, a seasoned coach with experience in SoCal High School baseball, joined forces with Blanch and Spradlin to further elevate the team’s performance. The players’ dedication to training and learning enabled them to thrive under the added guidance.
During the regular season, SSLL’s 50/70 squad achieved an impressive 16-1 record. Their journey continued with victories in the District 36 title, earning SSLL only its second District 36 win in history. The team then conquered the Section 4 Tournament, securing PV’s first-ever Section 4 title and a spot in the SoCal State Tournament.
In a remarkable achievement, SSLL secured their first-ever 12U+ State tournament victory by defeating Santa Anita LL. The team’s performance was characterized by exceptional play and dominant pitching. Despite facing formidable adversaries, including Golden Hill LL, SSLL displayed resilience and emerged victorious, advancing through the tournament. While the championship game against Encinitas LL did not yield the desired outcome, the SSLL 13U 50/70 Team left an indelible mark on the tournament. Competing in Southern California’s fiercely competitive Little League arena, the team’s journey represents a testament to dedication, teamwork, and a commitment to advancing their baseball skills.
Palos Verdes takes pride in the accomplishments of these young athletes, acknowledging their hard work and growth in mastering next-level baseball techniques. The coaches, players, and families have collectively contributed to fostering a positive and uplifting environment that nurtures success. The historic achievements of the 2023 Silver Spur Little League 13U 50/70 Team stand as a source of inspiration for the community, highlighting the potential of youth baseball and the rewards of dedicated teamwork.
