LA GRANDE — The local Juniors baseball team of La Grande avenged a loss in the state title game last year, winning the championship game over Murray Hill of Beaverton 9-0 on Monday, July 25, in Prineville.

The victory and title place La Grande in the West Regionals Juniors Tournament, playing against the state champions of 12 western states and the host team from the city of Bend.

La Grande has drawn a first game against the Utah state champions on Wednesday, Aug. 2. The winner of the regional tournament heads to the Little League Juniors World Series in Michigan.

Preparing for the tournament takes effort both on and off the field. While the players are busy at batting practice and scooping ground balls, supporters are attempting to assist with the costs associated with travel and staying in Bend.

A gofundme account is up and running to help the local squad defray some of the costs at the regional tournament. Those wishing to contribute can visit the team’s GoFundMe page to assist the team in making the goal of $6,000.

The La Grande Little League is a registered nonprofit organization and donations are typically 100% deductible.