A combined team of Central and South Whidbey softball players captured the Junior Little League (13-14) district championship at Oak Harbor’s Volunteer Field Sunday, July 11, and earned a berth in the state tournament.

The island girls defeated Burlington/Sedro-Woolley 17-2 and 12-7 to grab the title.

Coach Donnie Brown said his team batted around in the fourth inning of the first game to put the contest out of reach. Chevy Reyes’ triple highlighted the big inning.

In the second game, Brown said Central/South Whidbey led throughout, although Burlington/Sedro-Woolley was always in striking distance.

Brown said, “All the girls hit well.” He added that the offense was aided by the base stealing of Hailey Viera and Chantel Brown.

Mckayla Bailey and Mckenzie Hezel were the winning pitchers.

The Central/South Whidbey squad opens state tournament play against Stilly Valley (Arlington/Stanwood area) at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 17, at Vancouver’s David Douglas Park.

Central Whidbey Little League spokesman Bob Martin said, “We’re trying to raise money for the teams and have placed a ‘Donate’ button on our Web site. Over the next week these teams will need to raise money for food, lodging and transportation, the league will cover some of the expenses, but are asking for contributions.”

Those wishing to donate can visit the league’s Web site, www.centralwhidbeylittleleague.org, and click the “Donate” button on the upper left side of the page or mail a check to P.O. Box 222, Coupeville, WA 98239.