HAHIRA — The South Georgia Gnats, a 12U baseball team led by retired Major League Baseball player Stephen Drew, have achieved what many young athletes only dream of — bringing championship glory back to their hometown of Hahira after a triumphant run in one of the biggest youth baseball tournaments in the country.

Competing in Cooperstown, New York, during the first week of July, the team’s incredible journey culminated in an undefeated streak. They won all 10 games they played.

The road to victory was anything but easy. The Gnats started their campaign with six pool-play games, setting the stage for the intense competition ahead. The second bracket game became the defining moment of their tournament. Down 10-2, the Gnats seemed on the brink of elimination, but the team staged a dramatic comeback, clinching the game 12-10.

For the players and their families, the trip to Cooperstown culminated a year-long effort. A meticulously planned fundraiser made the journey possible for nearly 80 friends, family members, and supporters who traveled with the team. The large group turned the experience into more than just a baseball tournament; it became a memorable summer camp-like adventure.

In a time when many teams recruit players from various regions specifically for high-stakes tournaments, the Gnats stand out for their homegrown talent. Most of the team’s players have been playing together for years, all hailing from within an hour of Hahira.

Drew’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the team’s philosophy and approach to the game. Having had a successful career in Major League Baseball, Drew understands the importance of hard work, dedication, and a love for the journey.

These are values he has consistently instilled in his young athletes. He believed from the start that his team had the potential to achieve great things and was unsurprised when the team ended the tournament undefeated.

One of the highlights of the trip was a private tour of the Baseball Hall of Fame, a once in a lifetime opportunity for the team. During the tour, the players had the chance to see Drew’s glove on display, a tangible reminder of their coach’s legacy in the sport.

Laura Drew, Stephen’s wife, who accompanied the team, described the experience as more than just a tournament—it was a family affair. She emphasized the close bonds between the players and the sense of community that permeated the entire trip. For her, the trip’s true value lay in the memories that were created along the way.

As the South Georgia Gnats return to Hahira, they do so not only as champions but as a team that has grown closer through their shared experiences.