Pete Schramm, the manager of the Upper Perkiomen Youth Baseball League's 11U travel team, received the predictable yet disheartening news late last week. The

Zach Adam, shortstop on the Upper Perkiomen Youth  Baseball Leagues 11U travel team, tags a runner at third base on Sunday.

COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of next month's Cal Ripken State Tournament, which the team was scheduled to host.

            "It's disappointing," Schramm said. "The boys were looking forward to playing a high caliber of competition. It would have been a great experience."

            According to the manager, the Indians are determined to make the most of their truncated season. After hosting Nor-Gwyn on Wednesday, the travel team expects to play nine more non-league games before ending its season during the second weekend of August.

            "The pressure is off," Schramm said.

            On Sunday, the team played its fifth game of the season. It played eight innings against Lower Perk, losing 12-8 at Kistler-Bitting Park in East Greenville.

            The pandemic forced the team to cancel most of its 30-game schedule, which stretches from the end of May to the end of July, as well as its postseason trail of tournaments. The players seemed really hesitant to participate when practice commenced in June, according to Schramm. He said it took a few sessions for them to get comfortable.

            "There was a lot of rust to knock off," the manager said. "I'm very proud of what we have accomplished so far this season. We have been able to hang with teams that are typically stronger and come from larger organizations."

            Schramm has coached this team since they were eight years old. He said the current 12-player roster consists of half returners and half newcomers.

            "This group has bonded well together," the manager said. "The more experienced kids have welcomed the new guys. They have really gelled. It's been a pleasure to coach them this year."

            According to Schramm, the elimination of the postseason has made player development more of a priority. The coaching staff is experimenting with trying players at different positions. Developing more pitchers and catchers has also been a priority, according to the manager.

            "This is definitely more of a growing year," Schramm said.

            The Indians are currently relying on team speed to generate most of its offense. Leadoff hitter Zach Adam has been a terror on the bases. He stole 15 bases during four games on July 11-12.

            "We use our speed to gain some kind of an offensive advantage," Schramm said. "We have to hit better."