Monday, August 29, 2011
2nd Blog- No Little League World Series for Ugandan Team
No Little League World Series for Ugandan Team
New York Times
By LYNN ZINSER
Published: July 29, 2011
For nearly two weeks, the players of the Rev. John Foundation Little League team from Kampala, Uganda, believed they were headed to Williamsport, Pa., for the Little League World Series. The team of 11- to 13-year-olds, which plays with donated equipment, was the first African team to advance that far.
But their fairy tale story ran smack into United States immigration red tape. The players and their coaches learned this week that at least some of the team’s visa applications were denied by the State Department. The Little League World Series, which begins Aug. 19, will proceed without them.
“It is unfortunate, as we were very much looking forward to welcoming the first African team to the Little League Baseball World Series,” Stephen Keener, president of Little League Baseball and Softball, said in a statement.
The Ugandans were tripped up by their country’s inconsistent infrastructure and the United States’ strict requirements for travel visas. The State Department did not give specific reasons for the denial, but it told Little League officials that there were discrepancies in the players’ documentation. In Uganda, birth certificates are far from the norm, and establishing someone’s age and identity is complicated because parents and guardians are often illiterate.
“It is a difficult situation, I won’t deny that,” the State Department spokesman Mark C. Toner said Friday at a news briefing. “But you know, these cases are adjudicated by consular officials who look very closely at all the appropriate data, and they make their decisions based on that.”
The Ugandan children play baseball because an American — Richard Stanley, a part owner of the Trenton Thunder, the Yankees’ Class AA affiliate — helped introduce the sport to the country eight years ago.
“This would have been huge for kids all over Africa,” Stanley said Friday. “This is a great opportunity to expand the sport. All these kids want is an opportunity to go out and play. They have the talent. They don’t have the facilities.”
Jay Shapiro, who has been following the team for two and a half years while filming a documentary, “Opposite Field,” said in a telephone interview from Kampala that the players were crushed when they heard the news and that the embassy employee who told them on Wednesday was so upset “she had tears in her eyes.”
The team had come agonizingly close to qualifying a year ago, beating Saudi Arabia in a qualifying tournament in Kutno, Poland, but Shapiro said they lost the next day to Kuwait and lost the tournament because of a tiebreaker rule. This year, it beat Saudi Arabia on July 16 and returned to Kampala full of hope about a trip to the United States.
Shapiro said the State Department was right to question the players’ documentation, which he called incomplete. Documenting birth is not a simple process in Uganda, Shapiro said. Birth certificates are scarce, especially in the countryside. Many children are not born in hospitals. Some of their parents are illiterate, and in many cases the people raising the children are not their birth parents. A year ago, Little League officials asked Shapiro to gather the necessary documentation and oversee the process when the team qualified for the tournament in Poland.
This summer, Shapiro was not in Uganda. He had wrapped up the film after last season, but he and his crew flew back to Kampala after the team qualified for the World Series to add to the film. He said after the visas were denied, he looked at the players’ documentation and found it incomplete.
“Last year’s team, I’m 100 percent convinced of the legitimacy of that team,” Shapiro said. “This one, I couldn’t say I was 100 percent convinced. The paperwork was sloppy. In reality, they shouldn’t have even been allowed to go to Poland in the first place. This should have been caught earlier.”
Before granting a visa to travel to the United States, the American Embassy requires interviews with each child and his parents. If any of their answers differ from what is on the paperwork, it is considered a discrepancy.
“I don’t think any of them were deliberately trying to give false information,” Shapiro said. “They were just mistakes. But the result is the same. And I don’t disagree with their decision.”
Toner, the State Department spokesman, said he did not know how many of the players were denied visas.
“It’s unclear to me whether it was a preponderance of the kids, so that the team was no longer viable, if you will, or whether every individual on the team was denied,” he said.
Stanley said he hoped Little League officials would appeal to the State Department, but Pat Wilson, the vice president for operations for the Little League, said that would not happen.
“We are going to respect their decision,” he said. “We don’t think it would be appropriate for us to call into question their determination.”
Wilson said there was no precedent for a team’s qualifying for the Little League World Series but failing to gain entry into the United States. He said a few teams have had last-minute hitches in the process, but all were worked out.
Stanley said he considered it a major setback to his efforts in Uganda. He became involved eight years ago after visiting the country for a United Nations economic development program and said he had spent more than $1.5 million building facilities and setting up a program. He said he paid for the team to travel to Poland for the qualifying tournament in 2008, in 2010 and again this year. He said each trip cost about $35,000.
He said his goal was to build sports schools that emphasize academics and athletics.
“When I talked to the minister of sports, he asked me, ‘Can we win at this sport?’ ” Stanley said. “That’s what they care about, because they can’t win at anything. They have great talent there, but I told them: ‘You have to teach the kids. And those kids will play all day long if you give them the opportunity.’”
Shapiro said Little League should require teams attempting to qualify for the World Series to go through a preliminary visa approval process so that there are no last-minute disappointments.
“It’s a shame,” Shapiro said. “Their country isn’t ready for this. The schools aren’t ready. The parents aren’t ready. The only thing that’s ready are the kids and their talent. They will make it one day, and if there is anything positive out of this, it’s for people to realize what wonderful things are happening with these kids. They’ve got their own little world growing here.”
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Aadithya Srivatsav
ReplyDelete5th period
It's sad that this sort of thing should happen. I played little league before and I know the importance and hard work it takes to get into the little leauge world series. After coming from so far, they must be heartbroken. In a nation that was only introduced to this game 8 years ago, this is a remarkable achievement on their part. But everything happens for a reason so don't be shocked if this team decides to use this as motivation and comes back next year and wins it all. As a athlete, you don't dwell on the past and only use impediments as motivation to get around the impediments. I wish them the best for their future and hopefully, this doesn't happen again.
Dalton Chamberlin
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
I think it's a shame that this Little League team from Africa missed a great opportunity to participate in the world's largest youth sports organization just because of issues with their legal documents. Every year, in August, I watch the Little League World Series and I would of really enjoyed seeing this team get to participate. I understand there's the issue of the birth certificates, but it's hard to believe that there was truly no identification or documentation about these kids' ages. Now we will just have to dwell on what might of been. Reading this article helps me realize just how lucky I am to live in the U.S. We don't have to worry about birth certificates or anything because they keep track here. I would hate to lose an opportunity like this just because I couldn't prove how old I was. I think that it's very interesting what Stanley did going over there and introducing baseball to that country. It makes us all feel like making a difference. Hopefully in the future these problems won't be an issue and these kids will be able to participate in the Little League World Series.
Audrey Hermes
ReplyDelete2nd Period
This story breaks my heart. These kids must have been so disappointed to see their hard work go down the drain. I think there needs to be a new process, like the article suggested, where the visas are approved earlier. I definitely agree with Aadithya; it is mind blowing to think that these kids accomplished so much after just being introduced to this sport eight years ago. As a fellow athlete, I know that having motivation such as this will make them that much better next year.
Luke Chacko
ReplyDelete4th period
What!??! That is not fair at all. If the U.S. knew of their situation, then they should have made an exception for the poor kids. They tried so hard just to be rejected! But I do have to admit that it would be unfair if they accepted them because other kids probably had to give up because they were rejected. I am glad that Mr.Stanley was trying to build a sports field for them to play baseball. It's great that they will have a second chance next year with proper visas.
Brian Huynh
ReplyDelete5th Period
Although, even I totally agree that the African team didn't get in was sad, but Mark C. Toner's response is also something you have to take in account. Like how Luke Chacko said, if they got in it wouldn't be fair for the other teams to get rejected. This is like how you can prepay a game before it actually comes out. When it gets released, you go get it. All I'm really trying to say is preparation is key. If you want something, do it now before it's too late.
Evan Young
ReplyDelete1st Period
I think it was unfair for the kids from Uganda to not be allowed to play. It's probably dream-crushing for all of them to have to forfeit an amazing opportunity because of laws in their way. Parents always say "You can do anything if you believe". They can try again next year, but have better preparation. I also believe they should of had proper visas, but systems in Uganda are completely different from the U.S. The State Department should be considerate for that considering we come from two completely different cultures.
Amy Krauhs
ReplyDeletePeriod 4
Baseball was introduced in Uganda eight years ago. The players of the Rev. John Foundation Little League team in Kampala, Uganda, soon qualified for the Little League World Series, but they were denied entry into the United States because their travel visas did not reach all of the qualifications. They had put all this work and determination in to make it to the World Series just to be denied. They may be mad about this now, but this will make them more prepared for the next Little League World Series. They will make sure every player has the proper travel visa, so they can finally reach their goal. It's nice to know hope is always there.
Gabriella Rodriguez
ReplyDeletePeriod 4th
I just can’t believe that the children worked so hard and that they had come so far that they just denied them. But I think it was unfair that they denied the children because of there visas when it wasn’t even there fault. I think they should have at least given the children an exception. I just can’t believe it took them that long to discover the problem. But I love that the kids did it because they loved the sport the children would play outside for hours if they were given the opportunity. All you can do is move forward you can’t dwell on the past all you can think about now is your future. But it was a shamed that they missed an opportunity like that to play in the Little League World Series.
Amanda Shah
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
There's obviously two sides to this story. One were a talented Little League team from Uganda can't go to the Little League World Series because there travel visas didn't work. I can only hope they'll be more prepared next time because you can't possibly imagine getting into United States without a usable travel visa. I support the government on not letting them in the United States because I feel doing so would send a bad message that with bad travel visa you can get into the Untied States.
Brayden Theriot
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
I myself played Little League when I was 12 and my team made it to state and had the opportunity to get that far. But to hear these kids spent so much time, dedication, and hard work for nothing is sad to hear. I agree with Audrey on how there should be a new process and that the visas should be approved earlier. It's mind boggling to even attempt to comprehend how much excitement they had and for it to be trashed. These times in young athletes lives like this only come once, so they don't get a do over that was their chance to show their talent to the world and they had the opportunity but things just didn't fall into place. All I'm saying is that this should be dealt with and that if this was me I would be devastated by what I could have done.
Arjun Daru
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
It is really sad that the kids did not get the chance to come to the U.S.A. and play the sport that they love. I agree with Amy Krauhs on the grounds that being rejected this time will only inspire them to be that much more diligent in filling out the necessary paperwork correctly. I think that it was a great thing that someone actually took the time to go to a poor country like this and give them something that they had never experienced before. It really changes lives when people are inspired to do something like this. These kids love the sport because it takes them places and lets them experience things they never knew of. And because of this love for the sport they will keep on trying harder and harder to achieve their goal. When these kids finally make it, and they will, nobody will know what hit them.
Leslie Reglos
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
It's sad how the kids from Kampala were denied the chance of playing in the Little League World Series merely because some had been rejected their travel visas due to things missing from their documents. It's also unfortunate how birth certificates are scarce, and how some of the children's guardians are illiterate and not even their biological birth parents. Even though, the children now have the opportunity to practice and get better in the sport so that they can try for the Little League World Series again next year. I hope that by then, they are all prepared and have their travel visas. I also agree with Amanda though, about how it was right to not let them in without valid visas. Even though the children and their coaches worked hard, they were sadly unprepared and had to face the consequences.
Chris Abraham
ReplyDelete5th
It is very sad that these poor kids had to miss such an opportunity because of their travel visas. But I do not blame the government for this choice. The U.S has had some problems with terrorism, and it is important to take the safety of the passengers of the plane into consideration. You have to have some way of knowing whether these kids have any criminal records or something! Now of course, I'm not accusing these kids of wanting to hijack the plane or anything, but you never know. In my opinion, it's always better to be safe than sorry (especially if it isn't your life at risk). Hopefully they will be more prepared next year.
Jenny Simon
ReplyDeleteperiod 4
After reading this article, I felt like there's a connection between me and these kids. I strive for my dreams because that's what my parents taught me and that's what their parents and elders taught them, but sometimes I feel like quitting and I feel like it has knocked me down. I want these kids to know that you will have ups AND downs throughout your ride. When you feel tired and you want to quit, get straight back up and keeping reaching. I wish all these kids best of luck in everything they do. WE SUPPORT YOU!
Bryan Nguyen-Le
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
I think it is such a shame that these kids can't come to America and play what they love to go out and play, baseball. Obviously these kids have the talent to have made it that far. However that may be, talent isn't the only thing you need to be good at the sport, you also need a lot of spirit, which they of course have lots of to be dreaming about the little leagues
Benjamin Kurian
ReplyDeletePeriod 6
It's a shame that these kids couldn't come to America to play in the Little League Series. They came all this way just for the State Department to say no to them. It's sad but you've got to respect why the State Department refused. But if they did go to America, tons of other Africans would be motivated to play baseball. It's great that Richard Stanley was introducing baseball to Africa so more people could play.
Jesse Avila
ReplyDeletePeriod 6
That must be really heartbreaking for those kids to come all this way all for nothing. Yet, there's one thing that stumps me: The immigration policy. If I’m correct, this country was founded by immigrants. Why is it, that, we are strict on our own policies, and not realizing if it weren’t for immigrants, this country wouldn't be founded in the first place! The people who should be living in North America from the very beginning up until now are Native Americans. And then the government complains about wherever the identification papers are legit or falsified. America, you may have not realized it yet, but it's hard to receive identification papers in other countries. Matter of fact, it's difficult to receive anything elsewhere. If it wasn't for America's foreign policy, Americans would see the difference between us and the rest of the world. If only we can see the world from another point of view, maybe we can come to our senses. That's why there are terrorists. They believe we are policing the world and seek out to destroy us. Sorry kids from Kampala. There's always next time, hopefully. Once we, America, receive our slap in the face, you can do it again. Besides, you did it once, you can do it again.
Noblesse Oblige
Laura Luo
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
Seeing how the Little League team from Kampala, Uganda didn't get a chance to participate in the Little League World series, made me a bit disappointed. But on the other hand, I kind of understand the U.S. State Department's reason for not letting them in to participate. This is just as fair to the others in other foreign countries, for they all have a fair chance of entering the league. This is kind of like a heads up for them to make sure they really need to prepare beforehand, so that this type of situation won't happen again. I understand the situation in Uganda is not like the United States with keeping records of almost everything, but still that isn't a good enough reason they should be laid back and assume the State Department to let them pass just to participate. With more bigger opportunities there are, the more responsibility to assume to have that happen. I hope the Little League team from Uganda will learn from this and make the Little League World Series next time.
Amie Jean
ReplyDeleteperiod 1
What a shocker! These kids worked so hard to get to where they want the disappointment must have made them sick to their stomach. It is sad that they missed their chance again. I would never have thought that some people do not have identities just because they and their parents are illiterate. I have never once been grateful to have been taught how to read or write it is something that has never been a big deal for me, this article really puts into perspective how important education can be. Even though they may not have a chance at the little leagues this year I am sure they won’t let the mistake happen again. Still it’s distressing the fact that they work so hard and didn’t get to go, but I love how sports and athletics have become something that can give them something to do. Something to look forward to and to win at.
Wesley Andrade
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
It must have felt terrible to go through all the hardships of learning and practicing the sport, but to be denied of playing that sport is horrible. What's worse is that the children do not have identities to prove who they are, so in actuality their talent is wasted. Another obstacle for the kids is their parents, because since most of them are illiterate they cannot make identifications for their kids. I hope in the future that most of the kids all around the world will be able to have identifications, and for Uganda I hope they make the World series next time.
Nima Faegh
ReplyDelete4th Period
I feel very bad for the children of Uganda who were denied the opportunity to play in the little league world series. All their hard work, dedication, and perseverance, for what? A plane ticket back home. Although I feel bad for these children, I also am partly on the United States side. Security in airports are a very important aspect on our safety, so when the children did not have their visas, it was appropriate to not allow them to get into the flight; however, these children come from an underprivileged country, so the security should have been a little more lenient on them. All in all, I think that these children should have been able to go to the world series championships that they worked so hard for, however, in point of view of the US, it was the right thing to do to send them back home.
Jeremy Sandil
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
This story is depressing as these little leaguers couldn’t get to their World Series due to not getting travel visas. I mean I see the side of the U.S. government trying to tell them to get a visa, because in U.S. it’s no visa no entry. But these children are doing it because they love the sport, they would play it for hours and do whatever it takes for them to reach their dreams. But something was in their way because they didn’t have the right papers to get a visa. These players were so determined they were going to reach World Series, but couldn’t. Although I was pleased that they got back up and beat Saudi Arabia as they lost the previous match, it just shows that they could reach their goal if they kept trying, but all they worked for to get to America has failed due to not having visas. I just hope that the U.S. government is going to do something so that this sort of thing doesn’t happen again. Also I hope that the country of Ugandan fixes all the problems with the birth certificates and papers so that their people can do more and so that this sort of thing doesn’t happen again. For me I think this would increase the player’s morale and determination to win. Whatever brings you down makes you stronger as you bring yourself up.
Reeba Mathew
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
It’s a shame that the kids could not get into U.S. I agree that the kids deserve this after working so hard. Many people are illiterate in Uganda, and this could have been the kid’s one shot at something so great. I also don’t blame the state department for not letting them in. It’s important to have the right documents, paper to enter another country. I hope these kids get another chance to play in the U.S.
Grace Cha
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
It is disappointing that the children had such a big chance to play in the Little League World Series only to get rejected in the end. I do understand why there are so many restrictions and requirements for people to enter the U.S for safety reasons, but I do not understand why it took so long to find an error in the visas of the 11 and 13 year olds. For a mere 2 weeks the kids had a hope, anticipation, and future to play in the Little League World Series and possibly a future career, but their joy was only short lived. Third world countries such as those in Africa, having a documented birth certificate is rare due to children being born at home or parent’s illiteracy. It is not the kids’ fault that their parents are illiterate or they did not have a birth certificate. I believe that giving the children a chance to play would give their lives a new turn.
Tiffany Kwong
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
I think these children definitely deserve to be in the Little League World Series. They put their heart into baseball. These kids work very hard for no reason in the end, but I'm sure they have the motiviation to keep forward the effort to enter again. The process to enter another country takes an extensive time. I feel as if the government should change the process to make a quicker approvement or denial. On the other hand, I do believe it was right for the government to deny an incomplete documentation.
It's not fair that children from Kampala, Uganda were denied the chance to play in the United States because some of their visas were not accepted. However, I can understand why the US has such strict policies about people coming into the country. The kids were only 11-13 years old, but they had a lot of talent and potential. It's especially impressive considering that baseball was introduced to their countries only 8 years ago. I wish the children have better luck next time.
ReplyDeleteJoe Thomas p.5
ReplyDeleteIt really made me sad when I read about this story. It is inspiring how these kids can work so hard to win a sport, but the little league had to be placed in America. No government is perfect, including America. These kids couldn’t just come here for a week and play some ball? Why? They could have been under careful supervision and they could have been permitted as guests or tourists to the U.S., and if they did anything bad then Stanley could have agreed to be held responsible for them. My family has a bug problem in the same matter right now. My cousin’s wife and their son are stuck in India, because they went there for vacation and her visa expired, so the government is being a pain about it and not letting her back in the states. My cousin came back alone so he could go back to work and she has a real job here too. Her office is even on the Walk of Fame in Hollywood. It’s amazing how hard people have to work to get into the U.S.
Cailin O'Connell
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
While at first glance the situation may not seem "fair", the State Department was following typical laws and protocol. I can completely understand how disappointed the Uganda team must feel, because I would feel crushed after working that hard to accomplish one of my goals. But if there were discrepancies in the paperwork, and a travel visa was out of the question, then there really is not any room to argue with the decision made. Even Shapiro agreed that although extremely disheartening, the decision made was the lawful and correct choice. I do, however, agree with Shapiro in his recommendation that Little League require a "preliminary visa approval process", so that feelings of regret and disappointment are minimized for both the teams and the State Department. I understand that it must have been a very tough decision for the State Department to deny the team access into the United States, but I also respect their decision, even though I remain sympathetic towards the team from Kampala, Uganda. I hope that the children don't let this incident discourage them, keep working to achieve their goals, and loving every second they are out on the field.
Kennedy Ford
ReplyDeletePeriod 4
These young children did not get a chance to show what they really could do. I admire them for their hard work and their power to keep moving. This article has shown how we do need to have proper paper work for athletics, because of safety. The children in Uganda, were troopers and hopefully they will be able to show their amazing skills later on. I admire them for staying and strong through all of this.
Tanya Van Zante
ReplyDelete5th period
It’s such a shame that such talented kids didn’t get to live out their dreams. It must have taken them such hard work and dedication to get this far. It’s not fair that after they had made so many accomplishments and making it to the World Series, they were denied. My family has had experience with denied visas, and I understand how hard it is sometimes to get them approved. The State Department has become very strict when it comes to the correct paperwork and traveling and security information. Because birth certificates are scarce in Uganda and many children are not born in hospitals, it makes it hard for the team to have all the required identity paperwork. Because of this, it does not surprise me much that the team had been unable to receive visas, though I do feel disappointed for the children. It would have made a big impact with baseball in their country if they had gotten to come to the United States, but just because they were denied, doesn’t mean they’ll never be accepted. These talented kids should never give up on the Little League World Series.
Tia Lal
ReplyDelete2nd Period
I think it was really sad that the kids could not go to the World Series. They worked so hard to get all the way to the World Series and then miss it because their visas were denied. The kids must have been really disappointed. It was a great opportunity that was missed. The team could have made history, but I think what the State Department did was right because it is important to follow the rules to keep our country safe. They should not discouraged because of this. They should practice more and get better for the next time. Hopefully, they will get their papers ready the next time and go play in the World Series.
Gerard Barrientos
ReplyDelete4th Period
If I were in the Little League, and I heard this being said to my team, I would be absolutely devastated. I'm amazed that the children on this team are still doing their best even after getting rejected from participating. I admire how these kids are absolutely devoted to the sport. However, it is completely understandable why the United States is so strict on their policies. Just having many immigrants going into the United States without proper identification would be quite troublesome.
Kevin Zhang
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
It is sad to hear that a hardworking team did not get the chance to compete in the World Series, but I agree with the State Department when they denied their entry. The Ugandan team were unable to fulfill the requirement to obtain a visa as the poor conditions of Uganda leaves of it's inhabitants to be illiterate, which causes the odds of identifying the child very slim and entrance to America near impossible. It is sad to know these hard working children were denied, but it had taught them to always be prepared for what is thrown at them if they are to compete extremely competitively.
Christine Nguyen
ReplyDelete4th period
I find it really terrible how these kids will not be able to play in the Little League games after all of their hard work. I think it's also really unfair how all of their dreams and hopes of playing are taken away all because their home country's system is not a very efficient one. Though it is sad, I do respect and agree with the decisions of the State Department. Rules should not be bent or ignored no matter what the situation is for any person from any place.
Manisha Kunnacherry
ReplyDelete6th period
I think that it is unfair that these kids tried so hard and then they didn't get a chance to come to the United States,but I also agree with the government when they didn't allow the kids here because they had a bad visa. I hope these kids have better luck in their future, and are able to get a better visa.
Caitlin Davis
ReplyDeletePeriod 6
Things like this just aggravate me! If these people knew how hard these kids worked and saw how much they wanted this, they should of made an exception. I agree, not everyone with the wrong types of papers should be let through, but things like the big sports events should count for something. It's amazing what Stanley did for them. It was just what that country needed. Something to be excited for. It must of crushed everyone, not just the players and their parents, but everyone who was supporting them.
Lillian Nguyen
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
Making the children go home just because they did not had the appropriate paper work, is unfortunate. They worked so hard to get to the Little League World Series, and now they got turned down. Even though I believe this is very unfair, I understand why they had to go back. Visas are hard to get approved, and the United States have a strict policy. With that said, if I were in that position of the children, I will be upset yet understanding for not being able to go. I agree with Shapiro when he says that it is a shame that they couldn’t go, but it is not that the children are not ready. It is the people and schools. Hopefully, next year the Ugandan team can go to the Little League World Series to show everyone their talent.
Sydney Wallis
ReplyDelete2nd
I will admit that this is a heart breaking story, but I noticed as I was reading through the comments most of them say how it is so sad or how this is un fair. I agree, it is all of the above, but think about it, if you were one of those kids would you want sympathy from the people that turn down offers to do what these kids dream of. I don't think so. All it takes is one person, one person to start a charity to help them out. What I'm wondering is who's gonna be that one person? It could be any of us!
Reuben Kuruvila
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
I'm sorry that these kids with amazing talent couldn't get into the U.S.A because of paperwork. They were introduced to the sport only eight years before, and they already got qualified. It was sad to know that their talent was wasted this year. I'm sure they would've done very well. I hope that next time they're not as unfortunate and do get to come play in America.
Lynnie Dickson
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
It truly is a great disappointment of getting so far, and has to fail because you couldn't enter. I'm sure that we must have a visa to be able to get into the United States, but having to stop there after working so hard is heart breaking. I do disagree with not letting them enter the US, but I also think that it is important to have a visa. In America now, there are many illegal immigrants. I think that is what the United States was trying to prevent. Rules have to be followed and I don't think there are ways to bend it.
Chrysten Jordan
ReplyDelete5th Period
I find it to be a shame that those kids could not make it after they worked so hard, when they really deserved it. It must have also been just heartbreaking to find out just before that they were not allowed as well, not after coming that close. Many people in Uganda are illiterate and don't really know all the birth facts of their children, but thats not the kids fault. They couldn't help the fact that their family didn't have all birth information, when they probably had no idea exactly what they were supposed to do! Those kids had their hopes and dreams of playing crushed over the fact that from where they come from, this is not a "normal" thing that kids do, and their parents had no idea of what all they were supposed to have since they never have encountered anything like that before. I think that the least they should be able to do is just be able to go and experience some life changing things like that! But, even though it isn't fair, they shouldn't have the rules changed just for them, because other people have probably had the same thing done to them, but I still think they at least deserve to try.
Nicole Miller
ReplyDelete1st Period
It’s very sad that the kids from Uganda could not participate in the league, but the American government cannot be blamed. Even though there rules are strict, they are in place for a reason. Really no one is a fault for what happened, not even the way Uganda is set up. It will probably take years for that country and others to catch up with the rest, but until them they seem secluded form the rest of the world. Regardless, I guess all we can do now is help the children form Uganda and continue helping them with their hopes of playing in a league.
Jacquie Gann
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
I think that these kids have worked way too hard to be denied access to your country and their dream. The U.S. embassy did have a right to question the visas, but they should have tried harder to fix the issue so they could play in the World Series. I can only imagine what these children felt when they heard the bad news. Eight years ago baseball was introduced to the Ugandan youth, and now these hard working kids are competing to play in the World Series only to be stopped by a visa issue.
Miffy Ng
ReplyDelete5th period
It’s odd to know about the hard-working Ugandan Team lost their opportunity to take a bigger step toward their dream. I don’t understand why the State Department had to be so strict on those little kids. They were living for the League and all of a sudden they were told they can’t compete in the Little League anymore! I can imagine how upset they were. I believe if the Ugandan kids keep their determination of winning the Little League game, they would eventually make it.
Malhorie Del Rosario
ReplyDelete5th Period
I find it heartbreaking that the kids in Ugandans couldn't play in the little league world series after all their hard work practicing. All their dreams crushed because of the red tape in the air port. It's terrible that most of their visas are denied or they weren't prepared but, I understand and respect the airport's or countries laws with the red tape.
Sheryl Machado
ReplyDelete6th period
I think it was a really sad thing that the kids could not go to the World Series. They worked so hard to get all the way to the World Series and then after everything, they miss it because of their visas being denied. These kids must have been really disappointed and heartbroken. It was a great opportunity that was ruined in such a quick way. They could have done so much with gaining that visa, but to be honest I think that the State Department took the right decision, because it is important to follow the rules to keep our country they way it is. Next time they should practice more and more to be better then before. Hopefully, they will get their visas next time and we get to hear about their victory!
Katrina Qin
ReplyDelete2nd period
This story is so sad. The kids can not go to the World Series, only because their visas were denied. They worked so hard to get all the way to the World Series. They are hard-working, but they can not achieve their dreams. I can not agree all of the decisions of the State Department. Although in Uganda, birth certificates are far from the norm, and establishing someone’s age and identity is complicated because parents and guardians are often illiterate, we can not say all of Uganda's people are bad. They also have dreams. This is unfair. Maybe, rules are always rules that can not change, but those kids are hard-working and having a big dream, we need to give them a chance to achieve it. Who knows future.
Karen George
ReplyDelete4th period
Wow. I am amazed at the lack of opportunities here in the United States for those under privileged people! Sadly those kids have grown up from nothing and now they have to wait to compete in the sport that they love and that inspires them to move forward. I am glad that we have someone like Mr. Stanley who wants to help those kids in making an impact in their own country!
Amy Nguyen
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
After reading this article, it is not fair for these children to not go into the Little League in the United States, but I have to agree with the State Department. Yes I understand how the children of Kampala, Uganda are disappointed, but you have to understand that in order to get a visa you have to have some types of paper work in order to get one. It may feel like their hard work is going to the drain, but I believe that the State Department is doing the right thing even though it doesn’t feel that way. These immigration laws are here to protect us from terrorists from other countries. The children of Kampala, Uganda will be rewarded by their hard work some day but not right now. I hope that they feel that they can achieve more things.
Destiny Brantley
ReplyDelete5th period
It's sad that these people got the children of Ugandan's hopes up, only for their dreams to be crushed. I'm torn between what I think is right, and what I think is not right because for me, I would never want to take away a child's hopes and dreams, but then again, I understand why it is important to check their documents. When I read this story though, I was a little upset because they are children and these days, us children are becoming more and more discouraged and lazy, so when I see people actually making an effort to do something active or something they love, it hurts to find out they can't because of papers or money or any thing else.
Kristine Cross, 2nd Period
ReplyDeleteAll I can say is wow. To think that teams in other countries are trying to come to America for these types of competitions in an effort to be the best. It’s something that they can look forward to, but to have them get to the top and then not allowed to travel to our country. They worked so hard to get where they needed to be, I really think that the leaders of the Little League in that country could have done more to help those children. But I do understand why they decided against it, even though they couldn’t go this year I hope they make it one day. Also I wanted to say that what Richard Stanley did was a really big deal for those kids now if they didn’t have anything to look forward to before now they can always look forward to playing a good game of baseball with their teammates.
Maddy Pye
ReplyDelete4th Period
I think it is heartbreaking for the kids from Uganda who have worked so hard to get to this point just have their dreams crushed in this way. These kids have the talent and skill to go all the way but are not being given the opportunity to do so. I do agree that if the paperwork was not done properly that the kids should not been let out of Uganda in the first place. You also have to take into account that in their country they don’t keep track of birth records so the kids should not be held accountable for not knowing some of the necessary information for the paperwork. If the kids do have the talent, skill, and drive to pursue their passion then they always have next year to try to make it again.
Lara Moaty
ReplyDelete1st Period
When I get really excited for something and then I find out I can't go, I feel really bad. Those kids must have felt the same because they were excited for it. There are many things in life that stop you from doing what you want, and where your from can stop you from that. If they would have known about the information that they had to have, they would have been more prepared. They probably thought that there was not going to be a problem with anything. They worked hard for it and they deserved to go.
Lindsey Jones
ReplyDelete2nd period
That is just messed up. I would be in tears too if I worked so hard and had such heart in something and it was crushed right in front of you with just simple words in a few minutes. For some reason, in this article it makes Shapiro the bad guy. I don't like him just by reading this. His niceness seems false to me.
Fabian Romo
ReplyDelete1st period
The type of stuff that happens in the United States because of this really ticks me off. I mean could the State Department at least be a little considerate? Honestly it pains me to see stuff happen to anyone who has a chance to make it big but they can't just because of the immigration laws. Most people come to the United States to live their dream or do what they love the most, but now since they have all these ridiculous laws it's harder for those people to even get here. What happened to the Ugandan children just goes to show how unfair this world can be sometimes.
Sydney Ivy
ReplyDelete5th period
Its sad that the baseball team didnt get to play. I understand why the State Government didnt let them in the country but they could be a little considerate. In Africa, its hard to find or even have birth certificate. Its sad that the children couldn't control what was going on. Hopefully next yer they will get a chance to play in the Little League World Seris.
Kimberly Mendez
ReplyDelete4th period
Its an unfortunate incident that those Ugandan kids couldn’t participate in such a great opportunity. Those children just had there mind set on playing the game, and it must have been heartbreaking for them not to participate in The Little League World Series. It’s a shame that such great talent, hard work, and determination went to waste; but I believe that everything happens for a reason and if those kids couldn’t participate in this year’s Little League then they will have more determination to be able to be in next year’s. It’s a minor setback but they will grow stronger because of it. Also I don’t put in blame the U.S security system; they were only trying to do the best for this country and following rules. Overall I hope the Ugandan kids succeed at what they are good at, and overcome any obstacle thrown there way!
Jesna Thomas
ReplyDelete6th period
I find it very dreadful that the little league team of Kampala, Uganda didn't get to go to the Little League World Series in Williamsport,Pa. Though I do feel very bad for the Little League Team, I have to admit that the State Government was only trying to do their job. If the Little League Team really feel like the State Government made a mistake they should fight for their right to go to America. Even though I haven't seen them play, I'm sure they have an incredible amount of talent. I wish the Little League Team of Uganda all the best and hope that they get to come to America someday!
Monica Walker
ReplyDelete6th Period
I hate it when you put all your effort into something and then it all goes down the drain. That was the Ugandas kids dreams to make it in the Little League World Series and I bet they were excited to hear they made it. But for that law it was so unfourtanate for the kids. It crushed there spark of hope and I agree that they should change it and be able to play. I know as an athlete that it's not fun to make it so far and to lose. Well for them, it was taken away.
Jocelyn Dang
ReplyDelete6th Period
I can’t even imagine how heartbroken the little league team in Kampala, Uganda, must have been to hear the news that they were not going to be able to participate in the Little League World Series. It would have been amazing to see a third world country play a part in the Little League World Series! To be able to show the United States the amount of talent that can come from a country with much less privileges is truly ground-breaking! It’s a shame that the one thing that held them back was their visas. Yes, the rule about checking visas before an immigrant could enter the United States is a necessity, but their story makes me want to make them the exception to the rule. I hope that one day they’ll be able to display their talent in the United States.
Cecil Sabu
ReplyDeletePeriod 4
That is not fair! Those kids worked really hard to get this far. They were supposed to be the first African team to go to the Little Leagues, but American rules prevented them from following their dreams. Because many of the kids aren’t raised by their birth parents, their documents are incomplete. Many of them don’t even know their birthdays. These were the reasons why they were unable to go to the Little Leagues. Fortunately, people are helping the kids complete their documents. I hope there will be another chance for this team to compete in the Little Leagues.
Alex Duong
ReplyDelete5th Period
I believe that it is a little sad that this team was rejected, and I completely understand that the government rejected them. If the government was to be considerate and allow this one team to be accepted, then it would make many people mad and become unfair. If the government was to let this one team go by the system, the system would break. I'm sure that all of the team members will come back with more determination and more fierce than any other team next year.
Tosin Olabinjo
ReplyDelete4th period
This article makes me upset that such a thing could happen. I’d heard stories from friends and family about people who ran into issues with Immigration, but this is a group of kids. I know for a fact that Immigration Services in America are very strict; obviously they’re strict because they want to be careful who they let into the country. Unfortunately sometimes it can seem as though they’re being a bit unreasonable. This is a Little League baseball team; they had already played in other countries, so I would guess that they don’t have any negative motives. It was already known that documentation of birth in Uganda isn’t a simple process, so my assumption would be that they would know it wouldn’t be easy to verify the ages of the players. It would have been nice if they had at least just granted them temporary visas. Like Shapiro said, “This should have been caught earlier.” It’s hard enough to be denied a visa, but it was made even more upsetting by the fact that they were so close to coming to the U.S. for the Little League World Series.
Michelle Dang
ReplyDelete5th Period
Even though it is very sad that the team couldn't play in the U.S., I would have to agree with a couple of people when I say that the government made a completely reasonable choice. Of course it is unfair that the Little League team couldn't play just because of some immigration issues, but it would be even more unfair if the government were to accept them in to the U.S. Many people would get upset about it. Of course, they always have next year and I'm very sure they'll come back more prepared and ready then they ever were.
Brooke Tankersley
ReplyDeletePeriod 6
With all of the hard work and effort that these Uganda children put in so that they could play in the United States, it is such a shame and disappointment that they were not allowed into the US. Although, I believe the US did the correct thing in denying the kids to come to play ball here without the proper paper work filled out correctly. I hope that next year these Uganda children will be able to go beyond the level that they made it to this year in baseball.
Amber Alex
ReplyDelete5th Period
I think sometimes our country can be so selfish and stubborn ! These children worked VERY hard and were so dedicated to competing and just had it stolen from them. Since we are blessed to have such good technology and numerous hospitals, I think they forgot that not everyone are as privileged as we are. Those kids in Africa had no controll over this situation so the shouldn't be punished for it, matter of fact no one should. Our government should'nt have been so inconsiderate and had a heart and the children come over, enjoy themselves, and play some baseball !
Jennie Chen
ReplyDelete1st Period
After reading this article, I realized that dreams can't always come true. There will always be obstacles in your way that makes your life harder. It sounds heartbreaking that after all their training and hard work, they had to crush their dreams of playing any further in the tournament. If I was in their place and heard the news that I couldn't play I would defiantly be more than upset. I would want to scream and yell about how unfair this entire thing was. Indeed the children playing baseball, most do not have a birth certificate or born in a hospital but it should have been caught before. I truly hope that next year the kids are able to live their dreams and be able to play in the U.S. Little League World Series.
Taylor Jordan
ReplyDelete4th period
Although I do see how it's such a shame, such a disappointment to the team, I see it as necessary that they were rejected. If they were to compete on an international level, their paperwork should have been checked and visa approved upon entry to the team. The State Department is duly strict for purposes of national security. If they were allowed through just because they seemed so innocent, it should be considered profiling. Ideally the visas and paperwork should make all the difference and not the age or nationality of the travelers. I would rather let through a large, muscular, Muslim man who meets the proper requirements than these boys who do not meet the requirements.
Franita Colbert
ReplyDelete5th period
I feel horrible to know that a little league baseball team got denied a chance to show off their talent.I disagree with the U.S. Immigration system.Although American citizens need to be protected, America knows that most countries dont have as much effenciency as America does.Therfore,I think that our country is stubborn for that selfish act.
Shelby Mchenry
ReplyDelete6th Period
It’s terrible that the Little League team from Africa didn’t get to come to the U.S. and show their talents. They had issues with their birth certificates, but that shouldn’t have stopped them. Just because their age wasn’t specified, what does the State Department think could possibly happen? They are little kids trying to show what they can do even though they didn't have the equipment. Their actions provide an example to the rest of us that if you try hard enough you can do anything no matter where you come from.
Kiana Anthony
ReplyDelete6th period
Now that's just sad. I feel for those Ugandian kids who worked so hard only to be rejected because of document issues. These kids traveled to almost every country, playing their best at baseball so they could win the gold, but as soon as they're in arms reach of the prize; access denied. I know that living here in America our goverment's abit wary of foriegners, but they're just kids! All they want to do is come over and try to make baseball history for all the other Africans. It's not like you can blame them for not having their papers, as the article said, most of the people in Uganda are illiterate.
Maybe one day, these kids will come back, and be allowed to do what they love the most; play baseball.
Karen Aceval
ReplyDelete6th Period
My heart was crushed after reading this article. Those kids worked hard just to have their dreams crushed. I find it very unfair that it was just because their visas didn't qualify. Afterall, they're just kids following their dream. Hopefully, next year they will have the proper visa and this time actually live their dream.
Lillian Wang
ReplyDeletePeriod 1
Although I do see a need for proper legal work, I still feel sad for those children who worked so hard to achieve their ranking in the Little Leagues. It's definitely not their own faults that their legal documents weren't in order, just as they shouldn't be faulted and penalized for not having proper birth certificates or other things that they have no control over. I think the American government should have been more lenient and let them come, just for the games. These children must be so grieved to find that they can't attend the U.S. Little League Series, as they have been hoping to for the past two years. I'm very sorry that they can't attend this year, but hopefully things will work out for the better in the years to come.
Brittany Lacy
ReplyDelete1st period
It’s just amazing how those kids worked so hard to just be knocked down. I don’t get how you know that these people are illiterate why not help them. Before the season even starts someone should have been trying to help get the birth certificates taken care of. You cannot blame the United State Department because they are doing their job. This will just be a lesson for next year; they need to get everything situated to fix this problem.
Krista Killam
ReplyDeletePeriod 6
After reading this story, I felt really bad for the kids in Uganda. These kids don’t really have much, but they have this sport to rely on. All of their hard work and dedication is put into the Little League and then once they actually have a chance at showing the world how great their country is, they get denied. These kids can’t help that their parents are illiterate and that birth certificates in their country are rare. These 11 to 13 year olds worked hard to get where they were supposed to go. I don’t think any of this should be held against them. I honestly believe that this sport could change a bunch of these kids’ lives. It gives them something to look forward to. They can strive to be the best at this sport because this is the one thing they know they can do. I really wish the United States will give them a chance in the future if they get that far again because these kids definitely deserve it.
Tarika Nath
ReplyDelete1st Period
Even though it is a great shame and disappointment that Uganda’s Little League Team did not get to play because of unfortunate circumstances, I agree with the U.S. State Department’s decision as well. The U.S. State Department has no choice but to be reasonable, because all foreign countries have to go to the same process as well. They have to make sure the security is strict and well-enforced. The process of having illegitimate children and not having good records of birth certificates in Uganda is horrible, but proper documentation and visas are both needed for the team’s entering into the United States. However, I certainly cannot lie and say that I do not care for Uganda’s Little League Team’s situation either. They obviously worked extremely hard and put a lot of effort into this sport, and it is heartbreaking that they have to throw all of that away, especially since there are children in this team, not mature adults. If I was a team member, I would feel extremely hopeless and devastated that all the hard work has to be put to a temporary stop. Hopefully, these unlucky matters will be fixed. Judging from the amount of money and dedication, Uganda’s Little League Team deserves to have the opportunity to shine in this sport for their country, and for their happiness.
Sunday R.
ReplyDelete5th period
Someone should have checked a head of time before applying for a visa so late. Whoever was in charge of it should have known about our country’s United States immigration red tape. It’s amazing that Stephen Keener would help build the first African team. But I don’t think we heard the last of the Ugandans. They can surly overcome this rule and come closer to they’re dream. I feel if they will make it and bring prosperity to they’re country.
Ally Travers
ReplyDelete6th Period
Things like this make me incredibly sad to think about. Baseball is my absolute favorite sport and I think it's really cool watching the Little League World Series and seeing the boys from all over the world taking part in "America's favorite pastime." I do realize that it is important to have proper documentation and things like that to be able to enter the country, and that exceptions cannot be made for special circumstances. However, it seems entirely too cruel to do that to innocent little boys who just want to play the game. Hopefully they'll be able to work out the little kinks such as this further in advance so foreign, underprivileged teams are not suddenly denied the spot in the competition that they rightfully deserve.
Darryl Mohr
ReplyDeletePeriod 6
At first, this article shocked me. I thought that the United States immigration officials we some of the meanest people on the planet knowing how much work that the team from Uganda had put in and just not letting them come over. When I continued to think about this choice, my point of view changed. If the immigration officials are going to stop people from coming into the country because if errors in their papers, then they should do the same to everyone, like they did. While I understand how difficult it is for most of these children to get their forms filled out correctly, it is also in the best interests of our nations security to uphold the laws that have been set. I hope that next time the Ugandan team qualifies for the Little League World Series they will be able to fix all the things that they need to so they can participate.
Carlo Torres
ReplyDeletePeriod 2
It seems “unfair” for the Ugandan team, however I agree with the State Department’s decision. People all over the world have difficulty to be accepted into the United States, even with a birth certificate. Imagine the kids in the Ugandan team, they have a lower probability to get accepted in the United States than most countries. I respect the State Department’s decision, even though it is very disappointing that the Ugandan team is unable to attend the Little League World Series. Hopefully the Ugandan team will be accepted in the United States in the future. They won’t give up now, not when they are so close to the "finish line" (Little League World Series).
Jayson Varughese
ReplyDelete6th period
It is very sad to hear that a team that has worked very hard to make it to America were denied to enter. One small thing ruined their dreams of playing. I hope that in the future they will be allowed to come and play a sport that they are very skilled at.
Twinkle Joseph
ReplyDeleteperiod 4
It's sad to think how heart broken these kids might be. They have accomplished so much and it is probably one of the most important things in there life. Although there is lots of bad news, I feel like there is more good than anything. This gives them hope and motivation to try again and be better than ever. As athletes, they learn to use the past as a reason for the future. I have full faith that these kids will get right back up and aim even higher this time.
Shivani Doshi
ReplyDeletePeriod 6
After reading this article, I realized that not all dreams can come true. Those 11-13 year old players in Uganda should have had their dream come true, but through a problem in the United States, State Department they couldn't come into the US, and all of a sudden their dream was crushed. Although, I agree with the State Department and their decision, and I understand that they are just trying to their job. I hope those boys have better luck next time, and keep on trying because talent like theirs will never go unseen by the world.
Minh Le
ReplyDelete5th Period
I think it's a shame that we didn't let the Ugandan team participate in the Little League World Series. After all it is just spreading the American culture across the seas. It's good to see that those kids have the patience and determination to make it so far in a sport that had only been introduced for 8 years. I personally don't know anything about baseball, but I know how hard you have to train in athletics in general in order to go above everyone else. This isn't the end for these athletes, I hope they take this as a lesson learned, go home motivated to train harder, come back next year, and get ready to win.
Tojo Malayil
ReplyDeletePeriod 5
After I read this story I felt kind of sad for the kids from Africa, because the kids played all the way to the champions and got rejected. The State Department should have told them that some of the kids in the teams visa got denied. I'm pretty sure, like Stephen Keener said, that every one was looking forward for the first African team to come to the Little League World Champion. And what surprises me the most was that they got to the world championship by donated baseball bats.
Gabrielle Chaney
ReplyDelete5th period
This is a very amazing article showing us that we always need to do things ahead of time and that we need to be thankful for the use of proper records here in the United States. Since many countries and cities around the world don't have the technology like we do to keep important data, such as a birth certificate. The young kids played there hearts out and to be shot down on a big dream that they have had probably since the beginning of the season, might of hurt big time. Yet, I wouldn't be surprised if they are in the finals next year blowing out homeruns!
Justin Hoang
ReplyDelete4th period
It is a shame knowing that this talented Uganda team could not participate in the Little League World Series because they did not have proper paperwork to enter the U.S. I feel bad because they have come this far with all the hard work and effort they put in, to be heartbroken in the end. I respect the State Department’s decision but, you have to consider that the Ugandans didn’t have proper documentations or birth certificates like we do in the U.S. I hope in the future they will have another chance like this to show their amazing talent.
Darryl Mohr
ReplyDeletePeriod 6
At first, this article shocked me. I thought that the United States immigration officials we some of the meanest people on the planet knowing how much work that the team from Uganda had put in and just not letting them come into the country. When I continued to think about this choice, my point of view changed. If the immigration officials are going to stop people from coming into the country because of errors in their papers, then they should do the same to everyone. While I find this sad, I respect their decision. I also think that the American who introduced the sport of baseball to Uganda should be seen as a hero to us because he is trying to make these talented children have a chance at glory. I hope that by the next time the Little League World Series rolls around, Uganda will be ready both to compete and with the proper papers filled out.
Brien Benny
ReplyDelete4th period
I felt really bad for the little league in Uganda. They worked really hard to get this far and then gets rejected. I understand the decision that the State Department made. Hopefully next year the little league in Uganda will get everything right.