The Sparks from Tustin after winning the championship. (Photo courtesy Tustin Sparks).
The Sparks, a Tustin Girls Softball 12-and-under Gold all-star team, recently made history by winning the 2026 USA Softball Southern California State Championship.
The team’s manager Chris Blevins said the Sparks, who had a 36-5 post-season record, captured the first Southern California state championship in Tustin Girls Softball history.
The team captured three tournaments championships advancing through districts and then winning the So Cal state title against the top teams from across California, he said.
“The roster is made up of local girls, many of whom have played together for years and attend schools throughout the local community,” Blevins said.
“This accomplishment represents years of dedication from these young athletes, their families, and volunteer coaches. For many of these players, this has been the culmination of countless hours of practice and competition, making this a special moment not only for the team but for the broader Tustin community.”
The squad has qualified to represent the state in the USA Softball Western National Championship later this month in Seattle.
The Sparks won six consecutive games to advance to the finals of the double elimination state tournament. Tustin defeated Imperial Beach 13-1 to reach the finals.
In the finals, San Marcos defeated Tustin 11-5, but Tustin won the winner take all final 5-2 vs. San Marcos.
Offensively, Kennedy Manning was 2 for 3 with two runs scored, Emma Blevins was 2 for 2 with an RBI and a run scored; Helinea Valencia was 2 for 3 with a run scored and Kassie Lopez was 1 for 3 with an RBI.
In the circle, Linnea Brown pitched a complete game allowing only five hits, two runs and one walk in six innings with five strikeouts in the final.
“Bella Hernandez caught the entire game, caught one runner stealing with five putouts and no passed balls,” Blevins said.
Sparks roster
Players: Autumn Mae-Rodriguez, Avary Dorsey, Becky Mejia, Bella Hernandez, Emma Blevins, Everleigh Crawford, Helinea Valencia, Kassie Lopez, Kennedy Manning, Lily Roman, Linnea Brown and Scarlet Tarifa.
Manager: Chris Blevins.
Coaches: Jimmy Brown, Chris Manning, Michael Crawford and David Valencia.
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