The Bulls are back on the run.
The St. James Smith Town Little League returned to Long Island as local heroes after a triumphant parade on Sunday, celebrating their advancement in the Little League World Series.
“This is a fantastic way to wrap up our season. We really put the town on the map,” Bulls manager Scott Santelli shared. “It’s wonderful to see that the community stands behind us, showing love and support.”
The team faced a tough 12-1 defeat on Friday against Connecticut Fairfield National in the Metro Regional Final but still made history as the first New York State champions for St. James Smithtown.
“I hope this is just the beginning,” Santelli remarked. “There’s a strong pipeline of talent coming up.”
On Sunday morning, the boys paraded through Smithtown on a fire truck, kicking off their journey at the local fire station and concluding at Town Hall after about half an hour.
The Bulls were also given the key to Smithtown in appreciation of their achievement in North Shonabe.
“Everyone in Suffolk County is beaming with pride for this team,” County Executive Ed Romaine said, as he shared his excitement for the title game with fans.
Local bakeries created special cupcakes themed after the Bulls, and the Smithtown Philly Pretzel Factory even made pretzels in the shape of the team’s logo.
“It’s great to see everyone unite in their support. I can’t wait to see what next year brings,” Romaine added.
The Parade Highlight
Players were still buzzing from what Santelli described as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
He and his sons found themselves recognized in a sports goods store near Bristol Field after several games were showcased on ESPN.
Pitcher Kevin Moran also gained recognition, celebrated by the Constitutional Diner over the weekend.
“The attention this is bringing to our town will definitely help our Little League grow even more,” Santelli reflected.
Jeremy Katz, who won the New York State Home Run Derby, feels as if he’s stepped up to the big leagues this summer, according to his mother, Jody.
“Everything they do makes each player feel special and valued. The boys really appreciate that support,” she mentioned. “We’re even putting together a scrapbook of news articles for Jeremy, and he’s just amazed.”
Santelli had tears after Friday’s loss, recalling his time coaching these boys since they were in elementary school.
He said the Sunday festival was a perfect send-off. Plus, they have one last trip to Cooperstown next week for the end-of-summer tournament.
“I can guarantee you, the other teams don’t have a celebration like ours,” he noted.
Jodie Katz expressed her heartfelt gratitude for how Long Island has embraced and valued these kids.
“We’ll always cherish this feeling of warmth and support,” she said. “It makes us immensely proud.”
