SAN LORENZO, Calif. (KGO) -- For more than 50 years, East Bay kids have worn a Treeview Little League uniform as they raced across the field. Now the league faces its toughest challenge yet. They need to raise $15,000 by September or next season is in jeopardy.
Under the shade of a giant maple, the Treeview Little League team suffered a loss, ending a season overshadowed by troubles. That means Ramos must give up left field.
"Baseball is my life. I love it a lot," Mariah said.
She's part of a seven-team league in need of $15,500. It is money that will cover field maintenance, utilities, and trophies.
Parents say Treeview lacks the sponsors and support needed to continue.
"I don't think it's a matter of money, it's a matter of getting people involved and leadership," Shawn Castillo said.
Shawn's husband helps coach and her son, Rudi, plays first.
"It's the best league I've played for," Rudi said.
At 11 years old, he shook hands at the end of the game and didn't let the tears spill over. His team ran into trouble during one five-run inning.
The Treeview league got hit with petty cash thefts, broken plumbing, and cancelled concessions.
Their tournament loss means it's the end of their season, but they are determined that this will not be the last huddle they have as a Treeview league.
A concerned mom set up a donation page and other parents bought tickets for a split-the-pot raffle.
Coach Paul Sheridan is confident the community can raise the money by September.
"We're far from being done. We've got too many people in the community to let Treeview die," said Sheridan.
He is teaching teamwork both on and off the field.