The 12-year-old Little Leaguer who faced suspension from his team’s first state tournament game for flipping his bat after hitting a game-winning home run will be allowed to play Thursday night.

Marco Rocco of Haddonfield, New Jersey, tossed his bat in the air on July 16 after his sixth-inning, two-run homer in the final of the sectional tournament. Marco was ejected and suspended for a game over what the family was told were actions deemed “unsportsmanlike” and “horseplay.”

The family sought an emergency temporary restraining order that would allow him to play in the New Jersey state tournament that starts on Thursday.

Judge Robert Malestein ruled hours before the scheduled game that Marco could play.

“I am going to grant temporarily the injunctive relief,” Malestein said. “I am going to allow him to play in tonight’s game.”

Joe Rocco, Marco’s father, said in a text message to The Associated Press that “justice prevailed.”

Marco is expected to play for Haddonfield against Elmora Little League in the first game of a four-team, double-elimination tournament at the Deptford Township Little League complex.

“While we continue to follow any orders governed by the court of law, Little League is extremely disappointed that time, energy, and attention were diverted away from our volunteers and communities who are creating positive experiences for all players and families throughout the International Tournament,” Little League International wrote in a statement. “Trusted by parents and communities around the world, Little League holds the integrity of the game, respect for game officials, and sportsmanship of teams as core tenants of our program. We expect all players, coaches, volunteers, and staff to uphold these values at all times.”

The sides made their arguments before a judge in Gloucester County Chancery Division on Thursday afternoon, just hours before the game. The winner of the state tournament advances to the regionals, where it has a chance to move on to the Little League World Series.

“Little League maintains that tournament rules serve as the guide for any determination regarding conduct, of which falls distinctly under the discretion of the umpire,” the baseball organization said. “As all youth sports officiating continues to face challenges and abuse by parents and fans, and as we face a nationwide shortage of umpires and volunteers, it is more important than ever that we are supportive of Little League umpires, including the judgements and decisions they make at the local league level.”

A shooting at an Atlanta townhome turned deadly Thursday afternoon.

The shooting happened around 2:30 p.m. on Skylar Way in Southeast Atlanta.

Police said they responded to the report of a shooting at a townhome. When they arrived and went into the townhome, they found a 33-year-old man shot to death.

Investigators told Channel 2’s Tom Regan they were speaking with people in the townhome community, who said the man who was shot the victim was a beloved youth sports coach in the community.

Officers said they are still working to determine the motive behind the shooting, but have identified a person of interest in the case who they are trying to locate and question.

Police have not released the identity of the man who was killed.

TRENDING STORIES:

Game changer!

The New Jersey Little League player suspended for triumphantly flipping a bat into the air to celebrate hitting a home run will get to play in his state tournament game after all, a judge ruled Thursday, leaving the boy overcome with joy.

“My son is ecstatic. That’s all that matters to me. He’s very happy. I think the result was the right result,” Joe Rocco, father of 12-year-old Marco Rocco, told The Post. “He’s looking forward to playing the game.”

The Haddonfield Little League player’s suspension from Thursday night’s state finals game was overturned by Gloucester County Chancery Judge Robert Malestein —who said Little League hadn’t been clear or consistent about its stance on bat flipping.

“If you’re gonna have rules and enforce them, they can’t be enforced arbitrarily and capriciously,”  Gloucester County Chancery Judge Robert Malestein said Thursday afternoon. “[I’m going to] allow him to play in tonight’s game.”

The pint-sized player exultantly tossed a bat into the air after hitting a home run against Harrison Little League on July 16, prompting an umpire to eject him from the game, according to court papers.

He was also hit with a one-game suspension, barring him from competing in the New Jersey Little League State Tournament final at 8:30 p.m. Thursday — a punishment the judge called “draconian” before  tossing the suspension.

The elder Rocco cheered the ruling, calling it a learning moment for his kid.

“Win or lose, you know it’s just about teaching my son and my family a lesson that sometimes life isn’t fair — and when it’s not fair, there is recourse for you,” said Rocco, who is a real estate lawyer. “If you believe in something, you fight for it.”

“I just wanted to show my son Marco that I love him and I’m always going to be there for him,” he said.

Lawyers for Little League had argued the case would create a slippery slope where parents could run to court every time they disagreed with an umpire’s call.

“The rules are clear: The umpires make the decisions — not us,” Max Billek, a lawyer for Little League, told the judge.  “It was a deliberate act the umpires felt was dangerous.” 

But Malestein shot down that argument, saying there’s no specific rule in the Little League handbook against bat-flipping, and that the move  wasn’t clearly “horseplay” or “unsportsmanlike behavior” as alleged by Little League.

“There’s no specific Little League rule that prohibits bat flipping. It’s not illegal, it’s not a violation of any express rule. And it appears to be promoted [by the league itself],” Malestein said, referencing videos of bat flipping posted on the organization’s own website and social media accounts.

“The issue for the court is, was this unsportsmanlike  conduct —  or the actions of a 12-year-old kid excited that he just scored a home run?” Malestein said.

“He can’t get this game back,” he added. “There’s no amount of money in the world that’s going to bring it back [retroactively].”

Lawyers for Little League had also argued that potential litigation  would make the volunteer job of umpire for the league unattractive. 

They also claimed the act of bat flipping was so “dangerous,” that even the boy’s coach scolded him afterwards, saying,  “You know better than that.”

The judge, however, disagreed, saying that the harm to Marco for not getting into the game — which is a step toward his last shot, as a 12-year-old, at getting in the Little League World Series — was greater than the potenal harm to Little League of not finding new umps. 

“You get to play in a state championship Little League game at 12 only once, ” , Brian Berkley, an attorney for Rocco argued.

The court papers claim the boy flipped the bat during a “brief moment of celebration” and that Little League breached its contract “by not allowing [Rocco] to play baseball and failing to follow its own appeals process” regarding the suspension.

Little League said Thursday it will “uphold” the judge’s decision but called the case a disappointing distraction.

“While we continue to follow any orders governed by the court of law, Little League is extremely disappointed that time, energy, and attention were diverted away from our volunteers and communities who are creating positive experiences for all players and families throughout the International Tournament,” it said in a statement.

“Little League maintains that tournament rules serve as the guide for any determination regarding conduct, of which falls distinctly under the discretion of the umpire.”

It added, “As all youth sports officiating continues to face challenges and abuse by parents and fans, and as we face a nationwide shortage of umpires and volunteers, it is more important than ever that we are supportive of Little League umpires, including the judgements and decisions they make at the local league level.”

The WNBA has officially named 2x WNBA Champion and 3x MVP, Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson, as the first-ever Global Ambassador for the Jr. WNBA. The announcement marks a pivotal moment in the league’s mission to empower young girls through basketball, leadership, and community. 

 “Connecting with youth in the future of this game, it’s so near and dear to my heart,” Wilson said in an interview with WNBA.com. “I was once in their position, literally not even knowing if I wanted to play basketball, not even knowing if I wanted to stay in sports. And because I did, it allowed me to be the person that I am today.”  

Since 2018, the NBA and WNBA have focused on keeping girls ages 5 through 17 engaged in sports through the Jr. WNBA. The program offers impactful initiatives like Belonging in Basketball resources, created in partnership with non-profit partner Girls Leadership and designed for and by girls to recruit and keep all girls in the game. Jr. WNBA participants also gain access to the Jr. WNBA Vision Box, allowing girls to embrace their creativity and construct a vision board that reflects their passions, dreams, and goals for the future.   

Wilson will participate in Jr. WNBA events hosted at NBA and WNBA marquee events, including on-court instruction & competition and off-court programming aimed to help girls gain confidence, face challenges, and learn the importance of physical and mental wellness.  

Wilson will also serve as the Strategic Advisor to the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Court of Leaders, a comprehensive development program for select top high school basketball players who receive support and mentorship from the NBA and WNBA. The program fosters basketball development, personal growth, social impact, and leadership. 

A’ja Wilson talks to children during the WNBA x AT&T Community Clinic in Indianapolis, Indiana

More Than a Game 

Candice Haynes, Director of Youth Basketball Development, emphasized the program’s inclusive approach. “We really look at the Jr. WNBA as an opportunity to educate girls on different things they can do, not just as basketball players, but as young women,” she said. “Whether that’s setting goals, thinking through different career opportunities, or just falling in love with the game and being a fan.”  

Haynes noted that the Jr. WNBA creates a space where girls feel they belong. “We want them to look at the game of basketball as that space.”  

A Role Model Who Reflects the Mission 

Wilson’s authenticity and relatability made her a natural choice for ambassador. “She already embodies the values of the Jr. WNBA,” Haynes said. “She genuinely cares about young people and the future of young women.” 

 Wilson’s message to young players is simple yet powerful: “If you can see her, you can be her.” She hopes her presence in Jr. WNBA programs will help girls realize their own potential. “If I can just be seen in these spaces and make it look like, ‘Yes, they can do this. You guys are no different from me,’ that’s what I hope my role could be.”   

Wilson’s commitment to youth development extends far beyond the hardwood; the same spirit of visibility and empowerment drives the A’ja Wilson Foundation, which supports young people with dyslexia in reaching their full potential through workshops, programming, and camps. 

Leadership Starts Early 

Wilson believes leadership at the youth level is about self-discovery. “It can vary in so many different ways because you’re still in this stage of figuring out who you are,” she said. “It comes in friendships, and it comes in losses sometimes, but you continue to persevere and know that it’s always brighter on the other side.”  

She also sees her platform as a tool for advocacy and inclusion. “I’m blessed to have a platform that can reach the masses. So I’ll continue to speak up for them, being the voice for the voiceless and giving them something they can see, dream of, and want to pursue.” 

Jr. WNBA Host Ari Chambers and A’ja Wilson sit for a discussion at the WNBA x AT&T Community Clinic in Indianapolis, Indiana

WNBA media personality Ari Chambers regularly hosts Jr. WNBA events and attended the Jr. WNBA x AT&T Community Clinic during AT&T WNBA All-Star 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. More than 100 girls ages 7 and up were able to participate in basketball clinics, vision board sessions, and sit and listen to WNBA players such as Wilson, Courtney Williams, and Dijonai Carrington. Chambers sees the program as a catalyst for connection. “The whole point is to keep girls in sport past the age of 14,” she said. “Most of them said what they love most about basketball is the friendships they make. These are core memories they experience with their friends.” 

Chambers added that the Jr. WNBA is more than skill development on the court. “Not only do we build better basketball players, but we build better character along the way.” 

A Vision for the Future 

Looking ahead, Wilson hopes her work will inspire a new generation of leaders. “I would love to see someone take my space,” she said. “A young girl who was once sitting down on that basketball is now coming back when she’s a WNBA All-Star, and she’s now ‘the new A’ja.’ That is what I see for the longevity of this program.”  

Haynes echoed that vision: “She’s where these young people want to be. She’s an MVP, she’s a champion. But she’s also been successful off the court. That example is so important.” 

With Wilson at the helm, the Jr. WNBA is poised to reach new heights both in the U.S. and globally. Her message to young girls everywhere is clear: “You guys are no different from me… dream big and believe in yourselves.”  

The Jr. WNBA is the WNBA’s initiative dedicated to championing change on behalf of girls and women and providing them with ways to connect, collaborate, and actively engage with basketball and one another. For more information, visit the website HERE. 

Niagara University women’s soccer head coach Donny George announces its 2025 recruiting class. 

This exceptional group of student-athletes, comprising talented freshmen and impactful transfers, brings skill, determination, and character to the Purple Eagles. With diverse backgrounds and proven abilities, this class is poised to elevate our program in the upcoming season.

Meet the 2025 Recruiting Class:

Incoming Freshmen:

Emily Loudon: Center Back, Wales, UK: A composed and intelligent defender, Emily has represented Wales at various youth international levels, showcasing her tactical awareness and leadership. 

Coach George: “Emily’s international experience and poise on the ball make her a cornerstone for our defense.”

Audrey Posthumus: Wide Player, Toronto, Canada: A powerful and dynamic winger from Vaughan SC, Audrey’s speed and tenacity make her a constant threat on the flanks. 

Coach George: “Audrey’s energy and drive will electrify our attack from day one.”

Kaia Grande: Forward, Aubonne, Switzerland: A dynamic and clinical forward from Yverdon Sport FC, Kaia has represented Switzerland at youth international levels, bringing flair and goal-scoring prowess. 

Coach George: “Kaia’s creativity, relentless hard work ethic and finishing ability will light up our frontline.”

Caitlin Parker: Defender, North Tonawanda, NY: A commanding and physical center back, Caitlin has excelled with RNYFC at both youth and senior levels, known for her aerial dominance and leadership. 

Coach George: “Caitlin’s strength, maturity and presence will anchor our backline.”

Julia Poissant: Goalkeeper, Camillus, NY: A capable and agile goalkeeper from SDA Soccer Club, Julia’s quick reflexes and command of the box make her a rising star.

Coach George: “Julia’s focus and athleticism will be key in guarding our net.”

Grace Janish: Goalkeeper, East Aurora, NY: A high-level goalkeeper from WNY Flash ECNL, Grace combines sharp instincts with technical precision, ready to compete at the collegiate level.

Coach George: “Grace’s work ethic, athleticism and shot-stopping ability are truly elite.”

Andrea Jazvac: Midfielder, Grimsby, Canada: A tireless and hardworking midfielder from Niagara Surf SC, Andrea’s versatility and vision make her a vital addition to the midfield. 

Coach George: “Andrea’s relentless motor will set the tone for our midfield battles.”

Incoming Transfers:

Sandra Swartz: Midfielder, Östergötland, Sweden: A creative and dynamic midfielder transferring from St. Charles Community College, where she earned All-American honors for her playmaking ability. 

Coach George: “Sandra’s vision and technical skill will unlock defenses for us.”

Cicely Spencer-Wickham: Defender, Thornhill, Canada: A top-tier defender joining from Tulsa University, Cicely played significant minutes in both seasons, appearing in 11 games over two years, bringing experience and composure. 

Coach George: “Cicely’s experience and defensive instincts will solidify our backline.”

Mahelie Barbeau: Attacking Midfielder, Montreal, Canada: A direct and attacking midfielder following Coach George from St. Bonaventure, Mahelie played in 12 games, starting nine and going full-time in three, showcasing her offensive spark. 

Coach George: “Mahelie’s boldness and creativity will drive our attack forward.”

Caitlyn Gratton: Forward, Hamilton, Canada (Joined Spring 2025): A proven goal-scoring forward transferring from Providence University, Caitlyn’s knack for finding the net will bolster Niagara’s offense. 

Coach George: “Caitlyn’s clinical finishing and power will be a game-changer for us.”

“We’re beyond excited to welcome this talented and driven group to Niagara,” said George. “Each player brings something unique, and together, they’ll help us build on our tradition of excellence. We can’t wait to see them compete as Purple Eagles!”

Join us in welcoming the 2025 recruiting class to Niagara University! Follow along for updates as they prepare for an exciting season. #EaglesTakeFlight