The Big Apple welcomed Brady Browning of the Madison STARZ to play in Baseball Youth's All Star Challenge at Baseball Heaven in Yaphank, NY., on July 29. Out of thousands, only 50 of the best players throughout the country were considered for the All Star Challenge. Although Browning was selected after trying out for the cut in Mulberry, Fl., he originally declined in hopes of moving on to Aberdeen, Maryland with his hometown team for the Cal Ripken World Series. However, the 12U STARZ lost to the West Raleigh All-stars in southeast regionals by one in extra innings. “I really thought they were going to Aberdeen,” said Browning. “I was really sad that they did not win.” However, despite the loss, Browning decided to bring pride to his team and went to New York to play in the All Star Challenge. The 50 players selected were split into four regions: Central, West South and East. Browning was one of the 13 children on the East team. East won against South 18-13 on Wednesday, July 29 and conquered over Central 14-7 and West 13-6 on Thursday, July 30. “We were pretty impressed that he made it out of thousands of children,” said Brady's mother, Jennifer Browning.
The All Star Challenge aired on CBS Sports and MLB.com. Brady hit a home run in the round-robin championship and had three of his games televised on CBS Sports and MLB.com “We were really only guaranteed one game on TV, but they did so well that they did three,” said Browning. Along with bringing his hometown to glory, Brady also celebrated his 13th birthday on July 28 and experienced the hustle and bustle of NYC. Browning even got the opportunity to tour the Yankee Stadium. The Baseball Youth also chartered two tour buses to take the invited baseball players and their families to the Mets/Padres game. While he is grateful for the opportunity, Browning remains close to his Madison roots and owes it to his team for his accomplishments. “I grew up with every one of [my team players],” said Browning. “We all had good chemistry and loved each other.” The majority of the Madison STARZ have been together since their T-Ball days and keep themselves “humble”. “I've never seen a team love each other as much as these boys do,” said Jennifer Browning. Brady also adds that without the support of his coaches, he would not be where he is today. His coaches Dan Rutherford, David Stevens, and Billy Tolar have taught Brady everything there is to know about the fundamentals of baseball. “I love them all,” said Brady. “It's been great to play with them and be coached by them.”
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1. Brady Browning