Waterford and Manager Dave Laffey of the Babe Ruth 13-year-old all-star team, what a winning combo!

Hats off, cheers, have a cigar, bravo and congratulations, Waterford 13. What an achievement. Not only did these kids create memories that will last them a lifetime, they also provided the entire state with the proud honor of being one of the best six teams in the country. I personally don't know any of the players on the team, but I was glued to my daughter's laptop screen waiting every 30 seconds for a refresh. That's a tough way to follow a game, by the way.

I do, however, know the manager, Laffey, we work together. Dave knows more about baseball than anyone I know and I don't think it's a coincidence that he has guided Waterford now to two World Series. It's a manager’s job to bring out the best in players, to make them believe in themselves, to know that they can compete on the field with any team in America.

Wow, great job Dave! Do me a favor, Waterford, put Laffey's name on the short list for next year’s 14 and the following year’s 15 teams to keep this winning combo together. Waterford 13, you guys are our champions!

Kyle Shaughnessy

Mystic