SEASIDE HEIGHTS – They are troopers, Elizabeth’s Elmora Troopers to be exact and they made it to the Little League World Series.
While they did not return to their hometown of Elizabeth victorious, they did inspire a new dance called “The Jersey Shake.”
The team suffered a 4-1 defeat on August 21 by a Louisiana team that they battled for six innings. The troopers gave up just three hits.
Their opponents grabbed hold of their advantage and scored on an error in the first inning and scored three runs by the third inning.
The Troopers created their own unique dance called the “Jersey Shake” that is now being imitated by Major League Baseball players.
Next week they may demonstrate that “Jersey Shake” in Seaside Heights where they will be honored with a free day at the beach and boardwalk.
Seaside Heights Mayor Anthony Vaz said despite their World Series loss, he sees them as winners nonetheless.
“We’re going to honor them on Friday, August 30. They are New Jersey champions and they did make it to the World Series. They will enjoy a free day at the beach and the boardwalk and we have a proclamation to present to them,” Vaz said.
Vaz noted that the team got its name from New Jersey State Police Trooper Thomas J. Hanratty. The 24-year-old trooper was killed in 1992 during a traffic stop on Route 78 in Union County. He was returning to his vehicle when he was struck by a passing car. He had been a Trooper for three years and had played in the Elmora Youth League as a child.
The 13-All-Stars from the Elmora Youth League each wear Hanratty’s badge number, 4971, on their uniform.
The Troopers will get to enjoy their special day, “a week before school starts which is perfect timing,” Vaz said.
