Rowan County’s Little League softball team celebrated a milestone on December 23, 2023, reuniting ten years after their triumphant victory in the World Series. The gathering took place at the home of coach Steve Yang, father of star player Ellen Yang, who remembered the summer of 2015 as a transformative experience for the girls and the community.
In a game that captured the attention of viewers across the nation, Rowan defeated Rhode Island 4-2, clinching the championship title. Ellen Yang’s pivotal first-inning bases-clearing triple helped propel her team to victory, a moment etched in the memories of local sports fans. The journey to the World Series began with their unexpected success in state and regional competitions, culminating in an exhilarating trip to Oregon.
A Decade of Memories and Growth
During the reunion, which saw most of the 13 players in attendance, the former teammates reminisced about their shared experiences. Now aged 22 and 23, many are college graduates or embarking on their professional careers. Kali Morton, a key player who went on to excel in college softball, was among the few unable to attend due to work commitments. The group reflected on how the tournament not only transformed their athletic careers but also fostered lasting friendships.
Coach Yang recalled the moment when they first qualified for the World Series. “We had no idea what to expect when we started on that journey,” he said. “Winning the state championship and then the regional in Georgia was beyond our wildest dreams.” For many of the young athletes, it was their first experience flying and competing on such a grand stage.
The excitement surrounding the team was palpable, with a significant portion of Rowan County tuning in to their televised games. Their semifinal victory against a favored Texas team, where they won 8-0, created a surge of local pride. The championship celebration included a parade and accolades from community leaders, marking the team as local heroes.
The Legacy of Rowan Little League Softball
The success of the 2015 team sparked a dynasty for Rowan County, leading to runner-up finishes in subsequent years and another championship in 2019 with Yang as the head coach. The landscape of Little League softball has since evolved, with North Carolina emerging as a stronghold for the sport, now hosting the World Series.
Despite the increased competition, Rowan Little League remains a perennial contender. The original team members have cherished the bonds formed through their shared journey, recalling not just the games but the camaraderie from bus rides and meals shared along the way. “In some ways, it seems like a long time ago,” Yang reflected, “but in other ways, it feels like it happened last week.”
As the reunion concluded, the team watched highlight videos compiled by Sally Simmerson, mother of player Liza Simmerson, who passed away in 2022. The memories captured in the footage serve as a testament to the impact of their experiences. Looking ahead, the team is set to be honored by the Salisbury-Rowan Hall of Fame, a recognition that will further solidify their legacy in the community.
Coach Yang expressed pride in the journey and the girls’ accomplishments. “They started something special in Rowan County,” he noted. “They can always look back on 2015 and be proud of what they achieved as a team.” With strong ties and shared memories, the players continue to celebrate their unique bond formed through a summer of extraordinary achievements.
