VOICES

“We did really great this year. We’re really proud of ourselves, and we’re really happy.”

--Player Nick Moore

“I had a lot of fun. I’ve learned a lot about baseball.”

--Player Gavin Fabian

“The lessons will come as time goes on. Some of the pain of losing dissipates. Baseball is a tough game . . . . This has been the most gratifying experience for me. They conducted themselves very well off the field. We appreciate all the support.”

--Manager Jim Gattis

“I think I can speak for all people in Mission Viejo, all of California and all of the country when I say we are proud of them. They played with spirit.”

--Former Little Leaguer Aaron Mortensen, 16, of Mission Viejo

“These boys are all winners.”

--Guadalupe Manager Jaime Luna

“We’re shellshocked that we lost it so dramatically at the final end of the game, . . . [but] no way are we holding our tails between our legs. Everybody is proud to be the U.S. national champion.”

--David Wright, owner of the Clubhouse Family Sports Grill in Mission Viejo

“In our hearts, Mission Viejo represented our city, and they won for us.”

--Greg Williams, 34, Youth Sports Coach in Mission Viejo

Compiled by John Canalis and Steve Carney