A group of baseball players from Branford recently traveled down to Aberdeen, Maryland to participate in the week-long Ripken Experience Baseball Tournament. The Branford squad recorded a record of 4-4 while playing teams from across the country during the tournament. Branford’s athletes also had a meet-and-great with former Major League Baseball players Cal Ripken, Jr., and Billy Ripken.

At the tournament, the playing complex consisted of multiple fields that served as miniature versions of real-life baseball stadiums. The Hornets played on mini versions of Fenway Park (Red Sox), Citizens Bank Park (Phillies), Nationals Park (Nationals), Camden Yards (Orioles), Wrigley Field (Cubs), and Memorial Stadium (Orioles). All of the players received commemorative Ripken Tournament rings with several players additionally earning Player of the Game pins for their efforts during games.

The players on Branford’s team include Wyatt Cavallaro, Luca Dilegge, Aiden Dupre, Cooper Knowlton, Finn Knowlton, Chris McKittrick, Will Miler, Braeden Ryan, Tyler Snider, Peyton Swanson, and Will Taranto. The head coach of the team is Mike Cavallaro, and the assistant coaches are Billy Dilegge and Brent Sinder.

Information courtesy of Liesl Knowlton