The United States Specialty Sports Association autism awareness tournament held April 1-2 at various complexes in Mesa is just one of several events run by USSSA directors across the country annually in support of autism awareness.

With more than 200 teams participating, the weekend brought many stories of how the great game of baseball provides a positive outlet for those with mental and physical disabilities. Whether cheering in the stands, or getting to play on a field, both things have the love of the game in common, according to a release.

In the 10AAA division, the Arizona Elite Baseball Black 9U (Scottsdale) defeated the Knights Elite Black (AZ) (San Tan Valley) 17-8 to capture the 10AAA division at the event. The Knights Elite Black went 2-1-1 on the weekend. The Arizona Elite went 4-1 while playing up an age division from their normal classification. They scored 65 runs on the weekend and only gave up 21.

Arizona Elite Baseball Black 9U is led by Coach ZJ Buster. The roster includes Oliver Barnsley, Graham Bickelhaupt, Hudson Bott, Dominic Cadena, Nico Colonna, Oscar Coronado, Ty Gerlach JR, Hank Konat, Michael Moore, and Cy Peraza.

For information on the Arizona USSSA , go to arizonausssa.com.