12U Rep Yellow Jackets Crowned Champions, News (Essex Minor Baseball)

The host team, the 12U Rep Essex Yellow Jackets, capped off a thrilling weekend of baseball with a dramatic walk-off victory to claim the 12U division championship at the Essex Fun Fest Baseball Tournament. The Jackets edged out the LaSalle Titans 14-13 in a nail-biter at Co-An Park, sealing the win in the bottom of the seventh inning when a single drove in the winning run.  

For the 12U Yellow Jackets, the tournament carried extra meaning. In addition to competing, the team helped host the event—volunteering their time and raising funds for their upcoming trip to Cooperstown, New York, this August. There, the players will compete in a prestigious tournament featuring 104 pre-approved teams, tour the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and be inducted into the Youth Baseball Hall of Fame. Earlier in July, the 10U and 11U divisions were held from July 4–6 at Co-An Park. Fourteen teams competed in the 11U division, while 10 teams played in the 10U bracket. After round-robin play narrowed the field, Simcoe claimed the 10U championship with a 12-1 win over Kingsville. Forest Glade came out on top in the 11U final, defeating Leamington 15-10. Participation in this year’s tournament grew by eight teams compared to its inaugural year, drawing 24 teams from across Southwestern Ontario, including Simcoe, Tillsonburg, Beamsville, and Delaware. “It’s been fun, with fair play,” said Head Coach Jamie Paquette. “All the teams get together, make friends, and have a good time.” The Essex Fun Fest Baseball Tournament has quickly become a summer highlight in Essex—combining community spirit, competitive play, and unforgettable memories for young athletes.