THE MILITARY FAMILY: Pueblo native highlights resilience of military children in youth baseball tournament

Bavaria, GERMANY (KRDO) -- A Pueblo native is making international headlines.

Zean Whatley, 11, just competed in the Cal Ripken World Series, having been one of 12 boys to represent all of Europe and Africa during the elite youth baseball tournament.  While Whatley was born at Pueblo's Parkview Hospital -- same as his parents -- he and his family have lived for the past two years in Germany, while his dad is stationed there with the Army. 

"It's been a lot of fun. We've got to see a lot of different cultures and countries. It's been a blast out here," said Whatley, on video call. 

Whatley plays on two German teams, which has afforded him the chance to hone his baseball skills, while getting the benefit of learning a new language and making friends in his host country.

His resilience highlights the resilience of military children, who have one option: adapt to their new surroundings every few years. 

In order to be selected for the Cal Ripken World Series, Whatley had to send in a highlight reel and compete in a tournament in the Netherlands. 

Zean's parents, Andrea and Frank, have deep roots in the Steel City, having met at Pueblo's Central High School.

"Everyone is there -- we are the only ones who left," said Andrea Pacheco, Zean's mom. 

And that family reunion is the icing on the cake to being selected for the baseball tournament.  

"I'm feeling excited to go back to the States and being able to see family, and letting them come and support me," smiled Zean. 

The World Series was held in Branson, MO, Aug. 5-16.

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