MAPLEWOOD BOY REPRESENTS U.S. IN INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT

Maplewood's own Akshay Heda, a 12-year-old Maplewood Middle School student, will represent the United States next month in the Latin American Baseball Classic in the Dominican Republic.

The international event, set for Aug. 3 to Aug. 9, pits the U.S teams against other Latin American squads.

"Anytime you get a chance to represent your country, I think its an honor," said his father, Ami. "As a family we're all excited about it." 

On one of the off days, there will be also a charity event in which the players will donate clothes and supplies for local residents.  

Akshay also plays on two travel teams in New Jersey, South Orange Maplewood's own Cougars and the New Jersey Axeman/Infantry.

Akshay was not even planning to try out for the team when he and his father were at a spring training event for the Axemen. But one of the tournament organizers saw him play and suggested he try out.

Good luck!