Page 14 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2025 Saugus Little League Williamsport all-stars win two to stay alive in District 16 tournament By Joe McConnell T he Saugus Little League 11–12-year-old Williamsport all-star team (2-1) stayed alive in the District 16 tournament after edging Lynnfield, 3-2. That victory came on the heels of being shut out by Wyoma in the opener, 2-0. John Benoit pitched a complete game on the mound against the Junior Pioneers, giving up just three hits. On offense, Mason Botta was credited with one hit, and scored one of the team’s three runs, along with Luca Beatini and Benoit. In a close game, the defense rose to the occasion to help propel the Junior Sachems to victory. Outfielders Gio Natalucci and Jake Amodeo led the way with some fine, clutch catches. Catcher Thomas Vitiello also made a big play with a strong throw to second to nab a Lynnfield runner in The 2025 Saugus Little League Williamsport 11–12-year-old all-star team is, from left, front row, Aarav Saini, Cadin Arsenault, Gio Natalucci, Jake Amodeo, Mason Botta, Luca Beatini and Thomas Streeter. Second row, assistant coach John Benoit, manager Jeff Natalucci, John Benoit, Henry Rodriguez, Owen O’Connell, Matty Benoit, Thomas Vitiello and assistant coach Sal Beatini. (Courtesy photo) the sixth inning. It prevented Lynnfield from getting somebody into scoring position that could have set them up to tie the game. “This was a great team win against a very good Lynnfield (club),” said manager Jeff Natalucci. It looks like these Saugus Little Leaguers don’t want to go home any time soon in this double elimination tournament. After the win over Lynnfield, they then blew out Salem at Peabody’s MacArthur Park on June 28, 13-6. Botta was a perfect threefor-three to help lead the offensive attack, and each time on base he scored a run. Benoit also had three hits, while scoring two runs. Natalucci was credited with two hits in as many at-bats, and also scored twice. Vitiello knocked in two runs with a single. Pitcher Henry Rodriguez started the game on the hill, and went 4.2-innings, coming up with seven strikeouts. “This was another great team win, with everybody contributing offensively,” said Natalucci. After these two wins, the District 16 tournament continued on for the Saugus boys. Swampscott was their next opponent at Salem on June 30 after press deadline. A Special Birthday at the Senior Center L ast Friday, June 27, our Senior Center had the distinct pleasure of celebrating 16 of our June birthdays. It was made extra special by the presence of a truly remarkable woman, Annette Slocomb. Annette not only generously sponsored this month’s festivities, but she celebrated her own incredible 102nd birthday on June 2! We extend our deepest gratitude to Annette for her kindness, for sharing her invaluable wisdom and for allowing us to celebrate yet another wonderful milestone with her at the center. Happy Birthday, Annette! Each month the Senior Center likes to recognize the Senior birthdays with a collective birthday celebration, usually on the final Friday of the month. Each birthday recipient receives a free pizza lunch, cake, ice cream and a souvenir group photo to take home. If anyone would like to sponsor a birthday in honor of someone special, please stop by the office and let us know. HAPPY 102! Annette Slocomb turned a century-plus-two-years-old last month. She was the center of attention at the Saugus Senior Center last Friday, June 27, as the birthdays of 16 people were celebrated collectively. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate) JUNE BIRTHDAYS: The Saugus Senior Center recognized 16 Saugus seniors who celebrated their birthdays collectively at the Senior Center on Friday, June 27. Pictured from left to right: First row: Ethel Swirka, Isabelle Carr, Jacki Kiddy, Annmarie Fanara, Linda Teal, Annette Slocomb, Cabby Johnson and Senior Center Director Laurie Davis; back row: Richard Warbin, Richard Spates, Irene Soper, Edward Wawrzynowicz, Ruth Cameron, Janet Pothier, Gloria Johnson and Kathleen Murphy. (Courtesy Photo to The Saugus Advocate)
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