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Photo of Wilson players Manual Barragan (25) and Riley Parker (17) from a May game against Jordan. Photographer: Stephen Dachman.

Long Beach's own Wilson Bruins will represent the state of California when they head to Las Vegas next week to compete in the American Legion Western Regional, after beating defending champs San Bernardino in the State Final last night by an 11-5 score.

"I'm so happy and proud for our kids. They played really, really great baseball for four days," said head coach Andy Hall. "We're going to take this and represent California as best we can."

The Bruins tacked on three early runs in the first inning, then pulled away in the second with a three-run shot from senior-to-be outfielder Danny DeWolf.

"Everytime [DeWolf] came to the plate, he hit the ball hard and made things happen," said Hall. "He was just the toughest out, and if there was an MVP of the tournament, he would be it."

Over the four games Wilson played in the State Tournament, Hall also praised the performances of pitchers Ty Provenchar and Chase Dejong, first basemen Solomon Williams and first baseman Riley Parker. But really, it was the teamwork that helped Wilson achieve the victory.

Many teams in the tournament were compiled of local All-Stars brought together specifically for the State Tournament, while Wilson benefits from playing together all year-round. It made for a cohesive effect that kept Wilson strong even when facing some of the most talented players in California. Wilson had to defeat powerhouse Merced on Sunday, and then Westchester of Playa Del Rey in the semifinals on Monday, a game that Hall called "probably one of the most exciting games I've ever been a part of as a player or coach."

The Bruins play their first Western Regional game next Friday in Las Vegas.

"We just kind of let it fly, so when we get to Vegas it's going to be the same approach," said Hall. "Let's just go out there, play ball and have a great time. Nobody expected us to be here so let's just enjoy it."

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