Bellevue Little League hosting 11U state tourney

Bellevue's Little Leaguers will again be represented at a state tournament — this time on their home field. The Bellevue 11U All-Stars won the District 7 tournament in late June, beating Avon in the final, to secure a spot at the state competition. The double-elimination tourney begins Saturday at Robert Peters Park. "It's just exciting for these kids," said Ashlea Weiker, a team mom. "My son is on the team. This is his third year. These kids are pretty special. They're fun to watch." Much of this same group competed at the state competition two seasons ago in Ironton, then again last year in Hamilton. Bellevue's team consists of players chosen as all-stars from across seven teams in the Bellevue Little League. The all-stars are led by head coach Jason Nichols, along with Jordan Frederick and Clay Pocock. Bellevue will play Ironton at 5 p.m. Saturday. There are five other teams in the tourney: North Canton, Cuyahoga Falls, Mason, Poland and Olentangy. A drawing determined that District 7's winner, in this case Bellevue, would host the 11U state tournament. For 11-year-olds, this is the final point in their Little League season. The 12U level is the one that continues on toward the Little League World Series. This is the first time Bellevue is hosting this event. The Bellevue team will open play Saturday at 5 p.m. against Ironton. Honorary team member Kaleb Hackenburg, who was diagnosed in January with a brain tumor, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. The hosting venue will feature food trucks. Those interested can follow along with results and schedule updates on the Bellevue Little League Facebook page. "We want to thank our sponsors and our community support," Weiker said.