Live Oak All-Stars Celebrate an exceptional season as Semi-Finalists in the Little League Western Regional Softball Tournament. Photos courtesy of Ryan Dudek of All Star Expressions photography

LIVE OAK, CA (MPG) – Although it might not have ended the way they hoped, the Live Oak 10-12 Softball All-Stars returned home champions in their communities’ eyes after wrapping post-season competition at the Little League Western Regional Championships.

Earlier, the young ladies of the 10-12 All-Star’s team climbed their way through the 2025 season, taking the titles of California District 2 Major Softball T.O.C Champions, California District 2 10-12 Softball All Star Champions, California Shasta Section 10-12 Softball All Star Champions and finally, Northern California Little League Softball State Champions.

The Live Oak community would rally in support of the girls, arranging a law-enforcement studded motorcade escort for their departure to play at the Western Regional Championships held in San Bernadino, California, July 17.

Group salute the flag during the National Anthem while in San Bernardino, for the tournament. Photo courtesy of Ryan Dudek of All Star Expressions photography

The team would continue their post-season dominance with big wins over their opponents in early tournament brackets, beating Utah with a score of 15-1 and Nevada, 9-0.

The Live Oak All-Stars would play Arizona on Wednesday, July 23 in an electrifying match up.

Businesses throughout Live Oak and Gridley would join the excitement, hosting viewing parties for the public as the Live Oak 10-12 All-Stars game streamed live on ESPN channels. Others tuned in from the comfort of their homes.

Pitching powerhouse Charlotte Dudek, No. 11, would pitch clean innings against Arizona, knocking out hitters and rarely requiring back up from her teammates. Both pitchers would close out innings, holding the score 0-0 until mid-game.

Pitcher Charlotte Dudek, No. 11, is currently a nominee in a Youth Athlete of the Year contest that could potentially land her a spot in a 3Brand ad. Photos courtesy of Ryan Dudek of All Star Expressions photography

Though Live Oak would threaten Arizona during the fifth inning, the southern team would hold NorCal’s ladies. Arizona would eventually claim victory with a final score of 1-0.

Heartbroken, but not yet defeated, Live Oak would have a second chance at the final bracket, playing in a knock-out game against southern California, Thursday July 24, but Live Oak would fall short.

Meanwhile, the communities’ pride continued in momentum.

Sponsons donated funds to have personal banners made for each player and coach, including team banners, which were hung along the Hwy 99 corridor in the town over the weekend of July 26 by Berry Electric of Live Oak.

In addition, local Michele Curiel and community have organized a celebratory parade for the team, as they have not only made history within the community, but brought recognition to the town and most importantly, pride.

In a post made on social media, head coach Mitchel Perigo wrote, “The grit, resilience, passion and love for the game that this small-town team has is remarkable! The love that the community shown was unbelievable! So proud of each and every one of the girls on this team. The best part is, we ain't done yet. I know they will continue to work hard, there is a new bar that has been set, and they are wanting to surpass it! They will continue to work hard and come back next year stronger than ever! Just remember, dreams do come true, and these girls are proof of that. They are such an inspiration, and I am proud to be a part of it.”

Charlotte Dudek confers with her team while on the mounds during one of the semifinal games of the little league western regional tournament for softball. Photo courtesy of Ryan Dudek of All Star Expressions photography

Throughout this tournament, the ladies have been subject to a barrage of media attention, being interviewed by media greats such as ESPN and more, making this more than just an unforgettable sports experience, but potentially, one of a lifetime.

Pitcher Dudek has been nominated in a contest to be named Youth Athlete of the Year and featured in a 3Brand Ad in partnership with Sports Illustrated. Voting runs from July 28 through Aug. 7 at 7 p.m. To vote visit athleteoftheyear.org/2025/charlotte-6b77?fbclid=IwY2xjawL1vsdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHkuTOlAA_-7ABs-5naHaNPDxUVNFZ51XAHfKu6GkFTWQsEgrwBbY9JtaTlrx_aem_0sJTyDoW-raQyifFwHi3xw.

Live Oak will celebrate the accomplishment of the Western Region Semi-Finalist, Northern California Little League State Champions in a Homecoming Parade planned for Saturday, Aug. 2, at 6 p.m. at the Live Oak Little Leage Fields. Fans are asked to line up along the sidewalks of Pennington Road and O Street in Live Oak to recognize these local heroes.

Regardless of the tournament’s outcome, the Live Oak Little League Softball 10-12 All-Stars return home to the public as champions.