Atascadero 14U All-Stars rally through elimination bracket to capture USSSA Championship
By Staff Report · Thu Jun 18 2026
Fourth-seeded squad wins three straight games on Championship Sunday to bring home tournament title in Arroyo Grande
ATASCADERO — The Atascadero 14U All-Star baseball team showcased resilience, determination, and teamwork this weekend as they captured the championship title at the USSSA 14U Tournament in Arroyo Grande. Entering Championship Sunday as the tournament's fourth seed and facing an uphill climb through the elimination bracket, the All-Stars responded with a remarkable run, winning three consecutive games to earn the tournament crown.
The road to the championship was anything but easy. Tournament play began Saturday with Atascadero earning a solid 5-2 victory over Riptide. The team displayed strong pitching, timely hitting, and dependable defense to open the tournament on a high note. However, the momentum was briefly halted later in the day when the All-Stars fell to the Central Coast Phillies, placing them in a must-win situation for the remainder of the tournament.
Rather than allowing the setback to define their weekend, the players returned Sunday focused and determined. Knowing there was no room for error, Atascadero embraced the challenge and delivered some of its best baseball of the tournament when it mattered most.
The All-Stars caught fire on Championship Sunday, stringing together three consecutive victories to complete an impressive championship run. Atascadero opened the day with a 9-3 win over Riptide, followed by a hard-fought 6-4 victory against Ghost. The team then capped off its remarkable comeback by defeating the Central Coast Phillies 10-5 in the title game, avenging its only loss of the tournament.
Despite entering the day as the fourth seed, Atascadero played with confidence and determination throughout the elimination bracket. The players demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity, relying on strong teamwork, timely execution, and unwavering belief in one another. Their ability to respond under pressure and deliver in key moments proved to be the difference as they battled their way to a well-earned USSSA championship.
The title game highlighted many of the qualities that defined the team's tournament run. Players consistently supported one another, stayed focused during challenging moments, and executed fundamental baseball at a high level. Their ability to overcome adversity and remain confident after an early tournament loss was a key factor in the championship victory.
The accomplishment was especially impressive given the team's position entering Sunday. As the fourth seed, Atascadero was not considered the favorite to win the tournament. Yet the players embraced the underdog role and demonstrated tremendous heart throughout the day. Their championship run reflected not only athletic ability but also the character and determination that have become hallmarks of the team.
The success was also a testament to the leadership provided by coaches Justin Scoggins and Greg Denning, whose guidance helped keep the team focused throughout the tournament. Their preparation and encouragement were evident as the players responded to every challenge and continued to improve with each game.
Members of the championship-winning roster include James Budd, Benji Carreon, Bryce Vega, Cooper Reid, Dane Keefe, Dean Hinrichs, Easton Woeste, Levi Denning, Luke McGaughey, Miguel Banuelos, Seth Kaul, Tanner House, and Tyson Perry.
For the players, coaches, families, and supporters who traveled to Arroyo Grande, the weekend will be remembered as a special chapter in Atascadero youth baseball. The championship serves as a reward for countless hours of practice, hard work, and dedication, while also providing memories that will last long after the final game of the season.
Feature Image: Members of the Atascadero 14U All-Star baseball team celebrate their USSSA 14U Tournament championship after beating the Central Coast Phillies 10-5. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Budd