Auburn’s World Series all-stars are glad to be home

Published 1:49 pm Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Weary and relieved after completing a 14-hour journey back home, the Auburn All-Stars were greeted warmly by an excited throng of family, friends and fans assembled at Sea-Tac Airport on Monday night.

“It’s good to be back,” 12-year-old Dillon O’Grady said after receiving a hug from his mother, Kim, who flew back earlier. “I missed my family, my friends and I also missed my own bed.”

The all-stars had been on the road since July 24, capturing a state title in Elma and regional championship in San Bernardino, Calif., before embarking on an unforgettable 10-day experience at the Little World Series in South Williamsport, Pa.

Instead of coming home briefly, players went directly from Southern California to Pennsylvania.

Auburn won three of five games in Williamsport, including three consecutive elimination contests, and came within three outs of reaching the U.S. final. Auburn was one of eight regional champions representing the U.S.

Japan defeated Hawaii, 4-1, on Sunday for the LLWS crown.

It was Auburn’s first trip to the Series.

“Unbelievable experience,” said an exhausted manager Kai Nahaku, his eyes bloodshot. “Being on that stage was unbelievable. It’s something we will enjoy for the rest of our lives.”

Despite a heartbreaking loss to Texas in the Pool B finals, the Auburn players left the Series with fond, lasting memories.

“I’ll remember sliding down the hillside on cardboard,” said Casey Manning.

“I’ll remember making dirt angels (in the infield after games),” added Chandler Michalek.

To help families with their travel expenses, several fundraisers are being planned in Auburn.

For the players and their families, it was good to be home.

“Getting back to routine will be good,” said Rebecca Nahaku, Kai’s wife. “It’s back to reality.

“It was great, a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” she added.

The all-stars will be honored in a parade down Main Street beginning at 6 p.m. Thursday.