SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. — The Little League World Series championship game on August 30 highlighted the enduring success of youth baseball on the island of Curaçao, as its team claimed an 11-2 victory over Henderson, Nevada. The win marked Curaçao’s second Little League World Series title, following their 2004 championship that featured future major league players Jurickson Profar and Jonathan Schoop.
Curaçao’s team displayed a distinctive composure during the tournament, often described as “Curaçao cool,” a relaxed but confident demeanor that carried throughout the competition. Juriënsly De Windt, a key contributor both on the mound and at the plate, emphasized how the team maintained focus by breathing correctly and singing together in the dugout—a practice encouraged by their coaching staff to stay calm.
De Windt’s performance was pivotal in the championship game. After starting as pitcher and working three innings, he doubled to right-center in the fifth inning, driving in three runs that helped seal a six-run lead. The players’ teamwork and defensive skills were on display throughout, as evidenced by several standout plays including an over-the-shoulder catch by first baseman V-dien Ignacio Lindo and a critical rundown play initiated by shortstop Zha-djir Janga to stifle Nevada’s offense.
The Curaçao squad’s balanced offensive attack involved 11 different players producing 12 hits, a testament to their collective effort rather than reliance on a single star. Returnee Shardijon De Lanoi, who missed two games due to illness, made an immediate impact with a crucial third-inning single that evened the score at 2-2 early in the game.
Curaçao manager Railison Gijsbertha expressed pride in both the team’s achievements and the growing support they have received internationally, noting that fans from the United States recognized and celebrated their success. He also shared a lighthearted plan for the team’s post-game celebration, looking forward to enjoying a meal they had not tried on the road: McDonald’s.
Nevada’s team, finishing the tournament with a 4-1 record, was notable for featuring Carsynn Meyer, the first American girl to compete in a Little League World Series championship game. Head coach Cory Edwards reflected on the experience as valuable for his 12-year-old players beyond just the results on the field. He emphasized the importance of perspective and growth, hoping the players recognize the significance of their journey as one that demonstrated resilience, competition under pressure, and the ability to represent their community on a highly visible stage.
The championship game reinforced Curaçao’s standing as a powerhouse in youth baseball, blending athletic skill with a unique cultural approach that has proven successful on the international stage.