After a season defined by teamwork and determination, Maricopa’s 12U Little League team is heading to the state tournament. They won’t have to travel far, because for the first time ever, they’ll be playing for the title on home turf. 

The team earned its spot at states — and homefield advantage — with strong performances during district play. Throughout the season, the group grew into a cohesive unit, relying not just on skill but on a deep sense of camaraderie. Coaches said that dynamic was key to their success. 

“They play for something bigger than themselves and there isn’t a lot of ‘me, me, me,’” said Jonathan Weiss, the league president. “It’s just a great bunch of kids.” 

That team-first mentality helped the 12U squad power through the district tournament and punch their ticket to states. Their victory triggered an additional reward: new custom bat bags, promised earlier in the season if they made it this far. 

“I told one team, ‘If you win district and play state at home, I’ll get you bat bags,’” said Weiss, “and then the 10U won … and then the 12U won. So, we brought it to the board, and everyone agreed it was a great idea.” 

He made good on the promise and the bags were delivered Monday night.  

The team is hosting the Arizona Little League State Tournament, starting this week. With only 14 Little League districts in Arizona, the chance to host rotates and typically comes around only once every 14 years.

“This is definitely the first time that Maricopa 12U team will be playing in a home state tournament,” the coach told InMaricopa. 

The tournament begins Friday at Lakeview Park with opening ceremonies and the first pitches. Maricopa’s 12U team will take the field for their opener Saturday at 6 p.m. 

The double-elimination tournament lasts two weeks and will feature 27 total games. If Maricopa can stay in the winner’s bracket, the squad would need to win five or six games to claim the title. A loss would send them to the loser’s bracket, requiring more games to fight their way back to the top. 

The stakes are high: The winner of the state tournament advances to the regional competition in San Bernardino, Calif., with a chance to qualify for the Little League World Series. 

Maricopa residents are encouraged to come out and support the team. 

“It’s just a great opportunity to come by and see the electricity and the passion and the skill level these kids have,” said Weiss.