By Erika Toman

The Falls Church Red’s All-Star team, composed of talented young players aged 8-10, is making waves in their tournament season with an impressive display of resilience and skill. Currently standing at 2-2 with two games left to play, the team has encountered both triumphs and heartbreaks on their journey.
Their season began with an emphatic 8-2 victory over Arlington American, a game highlighted by outstanding performances on both the mound and at bat. Spencer Allan led the charge as the winning pitcher, showcasing his prowess by allowing only two hits and two runs over four innings while striking out six batters. CJ Mullin provided solid relief pitching, maintaining a clean sheet with zero hits surrendered across two innings. Behind the plate, the team’s hitters were on fire with Ryan Richards, Will Talbert, and Gavin Kuczkowski each contributing two hits, supported by Evan Iweagwu and Timmy Verasin with crucial hits of their own.
In their second game, Falls Church Red engaged in a high-scoring affair against McLean National, emerging victorious with a decisive 21-10 scoreline. The team’s offensive mastery was evident as multiple players, including Richards, Talbert, Kuczkowski, Iweagwu, Mullin, Allan, and Adam Dunbar, contributed with hits that kept the scoreboard ticking.
Despite these impressive wins, the team faced two close losses that tested their mettle. Both defeats came by just one run at the end of the games, with one on the road vs. perennial juggernaut Vienna and one at home vs. big rival McLean America. Both one-run losses showcased the team’s tenacity and determination. In their loss to McLean American, the game remained tightly contested until McLean edged ahead 2-1 in extra innings. Spencer Allan, who started as pitcher, continued his stellar form by striking out five batters and conceding only one run. The team’s defense supported the equally strong pitching and kept them in both close losses with several clutch impressive defensive plays by Richards, Dunbar, Kuczkowski and Hunter Roy.
Manager Alex Kuczkowski expressed pride in his team’s performance, emphasizing their relentless effort and positive attitude throughout the season. “Our players have shown incredible growth and determination during the past four weeks,” Coach K remarked. “They play with heart, play for each other, and never give up, which is exactly what you want to see in young athletes.”
With two more games ahead, the Falls Church Red All-Star team remains focused on finishing the season strong. For the game dates and locations, go to www.fckll.org.