The team of boys representing Norwalk in the Cal Ripken Major 70 World Series lost to Virginia and was eliminated from the tournament’s championship bracket Monday.

News 12 Connecticut’s Nina Kapur visited a watch party at O’Neill’s Pub and Restaurant in Norwalk, where family, friends and teammates cheered on the young athletes who have worked and trained all year for a chance to take part in the games.

Babe Ruth League, Inc., the Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau and Ballparks of America teamed up to make the big-league experience for the best 12-year-old baseball players in the world possible.

Supporters watching the game said they were beaming with pride, regardless of the loss. The 12-year-old athletes still have a major accomplishment under their belts.

"I can only imagine the excitement and the commitment that it takes to get this far in the first place,” said Oliver O’Neill. "At this level, winning isn't everything.”

The team’s elimination, however, deems them eligible to play in the tournament's ironman consolation bracket.