Victorino remains proud of Hawaii's Little Leaguers
Pride of Hawaii SAN DIEGO - Last week, Shane Victorino was so excited that his native Hawaiian team was representing the West Region at the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pa., that he had a stadium employee put one of Hawaii's games on the big-screen scoreboard during Phillies batting practice.
Pride of Hawaii
SAN DIEGO - Last week, Shane Victorino was so excited that his native Hawaiian team was representing the West Region at the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pa., that he had a stadium employee put one of Hawaii's games on the big-screen scoreboard during Phillies batting practice.
On Sunday, Hawaii's run came to an end with a 4-1 loss to Japan in the championship game.
"I'm very proud of them," Victorino said.
The Phillies centerfielder had traded text messages with Hawaii's coach during the tournament. He was paying close attention.
"To come back and lose in the first game and come all the way back and be U.S. champs, that takes a lot," Victorino said. "I'm proud of the kids. They never gave up."
Half the team's players named Victorino as their favorite player, an idea Victorino laughed at. Maybe one of them will make the majors, too, and be the next Shane Victorino.
"Hey," he said, "I'm fine with that."