Submitted photo – The McKinleyville 12s celebrate their Section 2 championship on Monday night.

By Ray Hamill — The McKinleyville 12-year-old All-Stars could be in line for a big boost when they get set to open the NorCal state tournament in Madera on Saturday.

The District and Section champs open tournament play against Land Park out of Sacramento at 10:30 a.m. as they look to secure a state title and advance to the upcoming West Regional tournament.

However, the team’s chances of winning a state championship this year took a big hit earlier in the summer when influential team leader Breyden Brock suffered an injury in the District 26 Tournament of Champions final.

But Brock, who was included on the 12-player summer roster despite the injury, is well on the road to recovery and could see a return to action as soon as the state tourney.

While he definitely won’t see any time on the mound, Brock could see some time at the plate, and that would be a huge boost for the local all-star squad.

“We’re hoping he could swing the bat at state,” head coach Jaime Arredondo said. “Because we miss him (in the lineup) for sure.”

The young Brock could have a future in coaching.

Despite the injury, he has been around the team throughout the playoff run, consistently encouraging his teammates and playing a new role.

“He has been to every practice and every single game,” the head coach added. “He has a great attitude. He’s a part of the coaching staff for now.”