The 2009 13U Sidewinders ended their summer season with another exceptional performance.  They finished 2nd in the USSSA International Championships in Crystal Lake, Illinois.  The 13U international teams included, Panama, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.  The Sidewinders had the pleasure of playing the Dominican team and winning 12 to 5, but were able to trade pins and

t-shirts with them for key rings and bracelets.  It was interesting to see their cultural passion for baseball and their way of cheering.  After pool play, the Sidewinders were seeded 3rd for the championship bracket.  Adam, Simeon, and Qinten pitched great.  Tino, Quinten, and Braven played well at the catcher's position throughout the tournament.  The team hit on and off, but Alex, Ryan, Quinten, and Tino ran the bases well and put the pressure on the opponent's defense.  Alex was selected by the tournament director for teh "Hustle" award.  This went to the 1 player in the tournament who played with the most energy.  The Sidewinders lost the final to the Oak Park/Burr Ridge Barrons (a combination of 3 teams) 11 to 6.  The Sidewinders took a 4 to 1 lead after 3 innings, but did not make the plays necessary to win the game.  Overall it was a wonderful tournament and a great season finishing with 52 wins and 14 losses.  Winning 2 Championships, finishing 2nd four times, coming in 3rd three times.