Shady Grove Church Softball League (www.shadygrove.org)

You have 3 days to sign up for SGC Softball. Sign up today at http://www.tigersurvey.com/Survey.aspx?id=177255 (copy and paste this link in your browser). Follow the prompts to sign up and pay. OR.....on the last day of sign ups, Sunday, you can sign up and pay in person at Shady Grove Church at 2404 N. Carrier in Grand Prairie. Again, it's $35 for players 19 and up, and $30 for those 18 and under.

Don't miss this 10th Anniversary season!

March

18 Sign Ups @ SGC Atrium
25 Sign Ups @ SGC Atrium

April

1 Sign Ups @ SGC Atrium
15 Sign Ups @ SGC Atrium
22 Sign Ups @ SGC Atrium
29 Sign Ups @ SGC Atrium
29 Sign Up Deadline 11:59 PM

May

7 Draft Night

June

4 Opening Night - Season Starts

At Church sign ups start on 3/18 but you can sign up today!

Step 1 - Copy the link to go to our sign up form: http://www.tigersurvey.com/Survey.aspx?id=177255 .

Step 2 - You can pay the fee online at www.shadygrove.org. Go to the egiving option. Fill out the online form with correct amount and put "softball" and the names of the player(s) the payment is to cover in the description blank.

You will not be officially signed up until we receive payment. The deadline to complete both steps is this Sunday, April 29th at 11:59 PM.

To summarize payment methods:
Cash - in person
Checks - in person or by mail - 2404 N Carrier Pwky, Grand Prairie, TX 75050 (put softball in the memo and phone number in case we need to contact you)
Credit & Debit Card - online

4/29 at 11:59 PM will be the hard deadline. All forms and payments received after will not go into the draft but be placed on the waiting list. Please get everything in. If you do not pay before the deadline, you will not be considered "signed up" and will go onto the waiting list. If for some reason you wait till the last minute, the least you can do is pay online. If I see you paid 12 AM, 4/30 or after, sorry, waiting list. We can get the forms late but you must have it in with signed waiver before playing, no acceptions. We have to be tough because our mercy has been abused in seasons past. Message me with any questions.

Now that, that is out of the way. Sign up! Pass it on. Season starts 6/4/11, 7:00 PM.

Why Corsair?

Over the years I've played a lot of baseball and softball (high school and recreational) but the best kept fields and complex I have ever played at are at Corsair Park, on the grounds of Lockheed Martin in Grand Prairie, Texas.

To get to the park you must go through a security gate, protecting the Lockheed facility. The park has a small field just outside the area of the fields where occasionally there will be a soccer practice but otherwise, the facility is just for our league. This has made for a wonderfully safe, family centered environment.

As of last summer, Shady Grove Church Softball League was the only league able to use the fields. Private and exclusive; can't beat that.

My hope is that Corsair Park will be the permanent location for the league. We have been there 9 years, but each year it's a discussion. I'd like it to be a formality. For me, since day one, it has just had this "magic" to it. A proverbial field of dreams.

"Is this Heaven?"

"No, it's Corsair Park"

Early this year, our group of coaches wanted to do something different. That turned into having our last games on Saturday morning with a post-game cookout. We knew if might be a struggle to get the men from the eliminated teams to come out early and play, and it was.

If you didn't rise and shine this last Saturday or left early, here are some of the things you missed. Non-playoff teams were combined in one way or another and played. It was a lot of fun playing with new guys. Just as those games were ending the men's semi-finals got underway.

#1 Warriors vs #4 Beginner's Luck

&

#10 Triumph vs #11 Foster's Falcons

It appeared we were in for a defensive struggle between the Warriors and Beginner's Luck (BL). BL came out and built a 3-0 through 2 innings. Then in the defensive play of the year, 1 out, 2 were on 1st and 2nd for the Warriors and Chris Willis crushed the ball to deep left field. Josh Sedillo was playing half way up and had to back track to have a play on the ball. Just as the ball goes over his head, he hook slides and catches the ball angled toward the left field foul pole. He lifts his glove to display the catch. The Warriors players were on their way to scoring but now had to retrace their steps. Josh then throws the ball to the the cut-off man who throws the ball to 2nd for the double play to end the threat. Despite that great play, the Warriors did make some plays and scored 8, while BL couldn't manage to put another run on the board to fall 8-3.

Just across the sidewalk was the back and forth affair between the Falcons and Triumph. Fast forward to late in the game with the Falcons clinging onto a slim lead. Bases loaded for Triumph. Come on over Big Mo. Grand Slam! Triumph took the lead for good and headed to the championship game 11-9.

In the hour that followed, the women's all-star game was played. No other games were playing during that hour to feature this showcase of the best of the women's league. Strong hitting and excellent defense was on display for this game. Ultimately, team Bell defeated team Turman.

Then, the men's final started pitting 2 teams, whose team cores had met in the semi-finals last season, and ending in 2 extra innings with Brad Lee's team advancing to their eventual championship. The Warriors came out with hotter bats than the first game and took the lead. They quickly built a 5+ run cushion. Triumph had their chances. Early in the game the bases were loaded with 2 outs, with the top of the line-up coming to bat. However, the batter was retired to end the inning without damage. Triumph crept back into the game but ran out of time, with the Warriors taking the Morton Cup, 11-8. This is the Warriors 4th championship in 9 seasons of play. The Warriors MVP is Chesley Davis.

Also receiving awards were:

Men's Coach of the Year - Doug Hartzell

Men's Sportsman of the Year - Labique FazalDin

During the men's final, the Grillasaurus was fired up and burgers, dogs, and sausages were dispensed to the hungry masses. After the game, everyone hung out under the shady of the pavilion. It was a great day to play, grab some free grub, lose some water weight, and work on a tan.

Thank you to all the folks that make this league special. First, to the Lord who gave direction to start the league and blesses it. Thanks to the fans and families that come out to support the teams. Thanks to the players who get better on the field and in their fellowship every season. Thanks to our concession stand workers who give up their evening once a week to nourish the pie holes of hundreds each summer. Thanks to our volunteer umpires that endure the heat and criticism weekly. Thanks to the Softball Committee for another great year of setting the table for fun. Thanks to Jim Morton for setting up the league and supervising the festivities. Thanks to Whataburger for staying stocked, manned, and ready to feed a store full of hungry, stinky SGCSL patrons. And special thanks to the folks at Lockheed Martin/Corsair Park for allowing us to play on some of the best fields in North Texas.

This year was a huge success because of you. Thanks for supporting us.

Though the season is over, the news will continue to flow as it comes in. Check in regularly for the very latest.

Now only 4 remain. Quite a bittersweet night. All teams are at full strength. It's quite exciting. Everyone's in; the possibilities; the hope; the anticipation. Those that were having seasons to forget could do just that with a good night. As of 7 PM, Monday August 15th, all teams were alive and had a shot at glory.

Round 1

7 PM

The ladies closed out their season with the Life Savers, doing what they do against the 1 win GR Horses; and the Redhots doing with they do, squeaking out a 1 run win; this time over the God Chasers. We've heard lots of feedback and we expect more ladies teams with greater balance come next season. Very exciting!

Meanwhile, #10 Triumph, which contains the core of last year's champs, Muster, put a hurtin' on the #7 Archangel to avenge their regular season loss. But over on the Yellow field one of the 3 - 1 run games was taking place between #10 G-Force & #11 Healed. After the closely contested game, G-Force narrowly escaped with the win. Their reward being a match-up with the #1 Warriors at 9 PM. Much more on that later.

8 PM

Very tight games in this hour. Starting at the top, the #3 Turmanators faced #14 Man Up. for the 2nd time in 3 weeks. Man Up. came out strong putting the ball all over the field. The Turmanators hung on blow for blow and pushed ahead to take the game by 3 runs, the largest margin of victory in that hour. Meanwhile, #4 Beginner's Luck had a fight on their hands against the #13 SEALS. Trailing most of the game, Beginner's Luck ended with the most luck and narrowly escaped an early upset 12-11. Over on the Yellow Field, #5 Team Dream took on #12 Howitzers. Too little, too late, as the Howitzers took the first major upset of the night and moved into round 2. On Blue, the high scoring #6 Kingfishers took on #11 Foster's Falcons. The teams held each other under 10 runs but it was the Falcons that avenged their regular season blowout loss 8-7. The winners then moved to round 2.

Round 2

9 PM

Another full hour of games saw a plethora of surprises and upsets. Starting with the expected, #4 Beginner's Luck took care of business and silenced the #12 Howitzers despite fierce resistance.

Now the less expected. Over on the Blue Field the #3 Turmanators took on the #11 Foster's Falcons. Back in their regular season meeting, the Turmanators had to come back from several runs down to win in walk off fashion. In the first inning the Falcons put up 5. The Turmanators could only answer with 2. The Falcons then add 5 more to take a 8 run lead. The Turmanators started a slow comeback and entered the final inning with time expired, trailing 12-10. The Falcons took their final at bat as the visitors. 2 quick outs recorded at the bottom of the batting order. Some how those batters reached base to load them up. Mark Carroll then launched a base clearing triple to add 3. The route was on. With 2 outs the Falcons batted around until they finally stopped scoring at 22. The Turmanators only had 2 runs in them to answer. Another regular season loss avenged.

Then Muster, I mean, Triumph (#10) took on a freshly rested #2 Laiquers. The top 2 seeds of the tournament received round 1 byes. The Laiquers never woke up from their rest as Triumph was on fire taking down another bracket favorite 17-6.

Game of the night. #1 Warriors vs. #8 G-Force. Weeks ago the Warriors beat G-Force in convincing fashion. More of the same? You knew better. Here is a guest entry from Captain Warrior himself:

"They put 5 on us in the first inning and we answered with 5 of our own. 2nd inning NO score by either team. 3rd inning we put 5 on them going up 10-5. Top of the fourth they put 5 on us to tie the game at 10-10. We didn't score in the bottom of the 4th. Top of 5, they scored 5 on us to go up 15-10 with 3 minutes left in the game. Bases loaded with 30 seconds left and Chris (Willis) hits an inside the park home run (his first hit of the game). With NO time left and a 15-14 game, Stacey comes up and Marty walks him. I come up next and Marty wouldn't even let me "sniff" at a pitch, and walked me on 4 pitches. Quentin then comes up and swings at the first pitch and pops out to the left fielder (Stacey and I tag and he goes to 3rd while I go to 2nd). 2 outs with no time on the clock and Brook steps up and hits a slow roller to the shortstop, I hop over the ball, he fields it and throws a little wide of first...Stacy has already scored to tie the game and as I see the ball tip off the 1st baseman's glove...I BOLT FOR HOME AND SCORE THE WINNING RUN!!!"

And there you have it. What a heartbreaker. Can't deny a clean hit, but a chance for the put out and it's costs the game, the season, and a huge upset, ouch. Earlier in the tilt the G-Force shortstop took a bad hop to the eye and had to sit out an inning. That probably had some effect on the final play. Year after year, the Warriors find a way.

Final Four

#1 Warriors
#4 Beginner's Luck
#10 Triumph
#11 Foster's Falcons

Match Ups (8/20 - 9:30 AM)

#1 Warriors vs #4 Beginner's Luck (Green Field)
#10 Triumph vs #11 Foster's Falcons (Red Field)

Women's All-Star Game (10:30 AM)

Men's Championship Game (11:30 AM)

FREE Food for All (12:30 PM)

None of the teams meeting at 9:30 AM have faced off this season so they'll have to depend on others for scouting. The odds are against the Warriors are a seed no higher than #4 has won it all in a few years. Come see SGC Softball folklore unfold, including the presentation of the new SGCSL Trophy.

See you, Saturday morning!

How could you not help but be? Mighty Samson's locks! It, was, hot! I was looking in the sky for that 2nd sun, b/c I was sure I was no longer on Earth, but Tatooine. No problem for the Jedi Knights. Experienced in facing elemental extremes and hostile environments. In their first meeting, the Empire (Life Savers), were too much and banished the Knights to the Dagoba. After 5 weeks of training, they made their way back. The rebellion was on, and after the dust storm settled the results were different. Balance had been restored to the Force. A 10-7 Jedi victory. The Life Savers suffered their first defeat. But the thing we all know about the Sith, is that there is always an apprentice. Prepare, God Chasers, for vengeance. Long live the Empire!

Facing their 2nd big challenge in 2 weeks the Warriors put their perfect record on the line. They jumped out to an early lead, but then the bats went silent, the gloves went cold. A dip in the Laique, perhaps? The Laiqers chipped at the lead capitalizing on the opportunities presented. Time expired before the Warriors could come back to life. Final score, Warriors 10 - Laiquers 11. It's just 1 loss and no one can take your place; at least this week.

Just an update on the playoff picture. With a Beginner's Luck loss, the Warriors clinched 1 of the 2 first round byes. That second spot is up for grabs but the Laiquers have the upper hand. The Turmanators can finish no worse than 3rd. The rest could shift a few positions depending on next Monday's action. First round bye or not, all teams will play at least 1 game on 8/15 & 8/20.

We'll be having burgers and hot dog for everyone on the afternoon of 8/20....for FREE!

Late day of the regular season is Monday. Be there!

Great thing about this league is that the teams are usually so evenly matched that games often go down to the wire. A team that quickly jumps out to a lead is always in danger as long as they don't keep putting crooked numbers on the board. This was the case for Man Up. They jumped out to a fast lead against the high scoring Team Dream. Then Man Up. seemed to get stuck on the number 8 as Team Dream kept scoring 1 run here, another there. Then at their last at bat, they broke through and conquered the number 8 and Man Up.

Then in an early seesaw affair the Howitzers and Turmanators exchanged leads. It seemed like it would come down to who had the last at bat, which happened to be the Turmanators. The 12-11 deficit they started the inning with became a 12-13 victory.

Who will present the Life Savers with a challenge? With this week's 11-0 win over the Grazing Raisin Horses they are 5-0. Only 2 teams remain between them and a perfect season. It's up to the Jedi Knights and God Chasers to tarnish their record. Come on, ladies. Make it happen.

In the late game the #1 and #2 teams clashed for control of the league. This was a very fast paced game that saw 7 innings in regulation, with probably 3 innings collectively that the batters went down in order. There was even a 3 pitch half inning. So yes, a real defensive struggle. The Warriors jumped to the early lead in the 1st with 2 runs. They scored 1 in the 4th to bring it to 3-0. They the Turmanators seemed to come alive with 3 runs of their own. The teams traded runs the next inning to bring it to 4-4. With about 6 minutes left going into the bottom of the 6th, the Turmanators had a premo chance to grab the lead and waste some time. They did neither and thus began the 7th with a couple minutes remaining. Again the Turmanators shut the door, and opportunity was knocking again (it rarely does twice). Just score 1 and it's over. No soup for you!! Opportunity walked away without as much getting a, "Just a minute; I'll be right there". Extra innings! Pitch count starts at 2-2 this year. The Warriors heart of the order broke out with 3 runs before being retired. Good thing the Turmanators had theirs coming up; or not. First batter, pop up. Second batter, ground out. Third batter, foul out. Is that Opportunity snickering over there? And is she high-fiving Brook Stokes? He stole the game and uncounted hits over at 3rd. He also made me scrape my knee. Game over. And the Warriors escape with the win. However, they will again place the #2 team in the rising Laiquers. Will the Warriors enter the log jam at the top or separate themselves as the regular season #1. See that game at 8 PM next Monday.

With that win the Warriors are 1 win away (or Beginner's Luck loss) from clinching a first round bye in the playoffs given to the top 2 regular season teams. The battle for that 2nd spot is far from over and will, most likely, go to the last game. Bad news for all these top team is it's a single elimination tournament and all 14 teams are invited. Lose to a team you beat in the regular season, too bad, so sad. All teams should be gearing up and polishing any rough spots the next 2 weeks.

Check back during the next couple weeks as there will be hot off the presses news.

Soon

Just to let you all know we will be wrapping up our season a little differently this year. The final day of the season will take place on Saturday, August 20th at 8:30 AM. Why Satuday? Players and coaches wanted to end the year with a little fun. Monday nights don't have additional time for additional activities.

The plan: We're going to have a big cookout, but we need all your help. We need volunteers to cook and serve, and grills. All the teams will be assigned items to bring to make it happen.

There's more but that's still in the planning stages.

Just mark your calendars and plan to be there.

They are definitely upon us. The dog days of summer when we take a pounding day after day by the relentless sun. The life is slowly drained away by triple digit heat and heavy humidity as if they were Texas sized mosquitos. The drought continues and the forecast is lending no hope. What are we to do? Become nocturnal and befriend the raccoons, alley cats, and things that go bump in the night? Hibernate the next 3 months? Move to the frozen foods section of your local grocer?

NO

This is softball........wimps not apply. However, some have given up and left on so called "vacations". Who can leave when the fate of their team's every game, every play, every moment, hangs in the balance of uncertainty? Flee! Flee! Take your fans, misters, and moisturizers and flee from the heat of competition. That's right, I know you wear a fanny pack and listen to Barry Manilow on your IPod while nibbling a scone at La Madeline. Secret's out, pal. Let the men (and wo-men) get down to the nitty gitty.

It's mid-season and the it seems teams are scrambling to find replacements for the folks out on vacations. Leaving their teams to fight off the opposition, alone. It's made for some interesting line ups as the team colors are mixing to put 10 in the field. Almost every team needs a sub or 2 this time of year, save one. Year after year, the team with this moniker seems to have one of the best team attendence, and performance. Coincidence would have it that I got to watch one of their entire games for the first time and said coach said it's about time for a plug. So here you have it, the last undefeated men's team, your mighty mighty Warriors! (Cue Patty Smyth)

That's right, facing their toughest opponent of the season, Team Dream, the Warriors made them their latest notch on the belt. Team Dream came out man on fire and quickly put 5 on the board after holding General Wayne's boys to just 1 in the first. The troops were rallied and the Warriors put up a 5 spot of their own. Team Dream wasn't able to reproduce that first inning for the remainder of the game. The score was close. Anybody's game. Before you knew it, there it went. Downtown. Back, back, back. Boom goes the dynamite. 2-run shot by the General. The team was ignited. Chesley Davis was hitting and running. Stacey Darden was pitching for strikes and hitting it where they ain't. They finally stopped at 16. Team Dream fought back but only to 13. Dream on fellas, you'll have another shot soon enough.

Earlier in the evening the Redhots played their 3rd extra inning game in a row. This time against the undefeated Life Savers. The result was different. The Life Savers put 3 more runs on the board and shut the Hots down.

In the other ladies game, the God Chasers hunted down their first win against the Grazing Raisin Horses. Trailing by a couple late in the game the teams hustled and earned another inning. The Chasers made it count scoring 10 runs in the inning, grabbing the victory. Talk about taking the ball and running home with it.

The other undefeated men's team finally fell to Triumph. Triumph played a solid offensive and defensive game. But their biggest asset, positive attitude, propelled them to the win as they rallied in their last at bat and held until time expired. The Turmanator coach commented on the loss, "Triumph plays a tough, positive, team game. They earned it. We'll be back." Indeed they will as they will have to bounce back with 2 games next Monday. They cap off the evening with those Warriors and could pull into a tie for first if they sweep the double header.

Lots of season to be played but it's winding down. Sure we have some highlighted games for next week but I suspect others will demand the focus. And in closing enjoy this brief obligatory Jedi Knights reference. Lightsabers!

It would be so nice.

Hope everyone had a great 4th of July holiday.

The Redhots had another reason to celebrate as they continued the league wide assult on the winless God Chasers. Again winning in extra innings, but this time it took 2. The Redhots hope to continue their dramatic winning way next Monday against the undefeated Life Savers. The God Chasers will get a chance at revenge next week against the Grazing Raisin Horses. Speaking of revenge, those GR Horses fell just short of taking it to the Jedi Knights. With the score tied 5-5 in the final inning they couldn't put any runs across and the Knights scored and held out till time expired to sweep the 2 game season series....they did.

The celebrations continued on the men's side as the final winless team collected win #1 in unorthodox fashion. Those men of Man Up. could only come up with 5 men; that's 1 man too short leading to the forfeit and victory for the SEALs. "They was scared!" exclaimed Mike Knight, coach of the SEALs when asked about the forfeit. Only kidding. He was glad to at least put together game for his guys.

The top 2 teams boogied as they both won their games to bring them to 5-0. It's been awhile since a team has gone this long undefeated; let alone 2 teams. In 2 weeks, at least 1 of these teams will have a loss when they face off.

One of those 5-0 teams had a close scare versus the 4-1 Beginner's Luck, ready to pull them down. The score was 7-5 Turmanators entering the final inning. As the visiting team, the Turmanators batted with the top of the line up. Hitters 1-3 all went down with 2 pop flies and a ground out. First in order retirement all year. This left 3 minutes in the game. Both teams are high scorers and seemed ready to break out. First 2 batters ground out. Plenty of time on the clock left with 1+ minutes to start a new inning if out #3 is recorded. The next batter walks on 4 straight pitches. Realizing time was about to expire after a few balls pitched, Peter May attempts to create a automatic out by stepping on home plate during a pitch. The part missing was bat/ball contact had to be made as well for the out. That opportunity is missed. Time expires, so this is it for Beginner's Luck. Base hit Peter. Runners on 1st and 2nd, with the game winning run, Matthew Sedillo coming to the plate; the heart of Luck's order. Line drive to left field, base hit. The runner on 2nd is being waived home. Daniel Price comes up gunning to home. It's on target, is it on time? OUT! Game over. Exciting game with a climactic ending.

With that 2 extra inning game to start the night, things went a bit long. No matter. It was great to get softball back on Monday night where it belongs.

So far this season most of the drama has, oddly, been provided by the men in the 8 & 9 o'clock hours. But last Monday was different. Not again, not today. Game of the night was the first game of the day on the Red Field with the Redhots facing off against your Jedi Knights. The evenly matched teams traded scoreless innings till the Knights broke through with 1. The Redhots came back 1 inning later with one of their own. Now the score should have been significantly higher but over 3 double plays were made, lead runners were thrown out, and players were striking out to kill rallies. An extra inning was needed with the score tied 1-1. Extra time rules dictate the pitch count starts 2-2. This lead to a lot more swings and action on the field. Both teams had the heart of the order coming up. As the visiting team, the Jedi were up first. Hit after hit made the score 3-1. With 1 out, the ball was caught by an infielder and fired to 2nd for another double play. The Redhots quickly put 2 runners on base with a big hitter coming up. "These are not the droids you are looking for", and strike 3! That was out #1 and appeared as though it may turn the tide and bring peace to the galaxy. Maybe not. Another hit, now the bases were loaded. The Redhots struck back on the next hit as 2 runs came around to score tying the game at 3. The next batter is Emily Hastings, who is off to a great start in the league. Winning run on 3rd. She swings, and it's an infield hit. Redhots win 4-3! Further proof that the bottom of the order wins games. Me thinks the Dagobah and Tatooine population just went up.

The rest of the night didn't carry the same pizzazz as the past 3 weeks as the unbeaten remained so in comfortable fashion, but the 2 winless had near misses in taking their first wins. The SEALs effort fell just short in a 4-3 loss to Triumph. Foster's Falcons just ran out of time in a 11-9 loss to Healed. Hopefully, the breaks starts falling their way as these teams will not meet in the regular season to break one of those eggs. 5 weeks left. Anything can happen.

In playing and walking around the park the integrity level of these men and women has increased from last year to this year. Players and coaches alike are asked to play adhering to the golden rule. This means if a bad call from an umpire goes in their favor, they should strive to have the call reversed to what was correct. I have seen this on average, every other game. That is tremendous! Maybe that says something about our coach/umpires, but it's says more about those playing and setting the example for everyone around. Great job!!

Now don't come out to the park this Monday as there will be no games as Independence Day is observed.

We start up again on 7/11 at 7 PM. See you all then.

This league is designed for balance. No one team should dominate or wilt all season long. It's just not any fun if you can compete. We can't be perfect with all the variables but we strive for all teams to end up with a .500 record. Last year we had a 1 win team. Injury and luck played a big part in that. Currently the target is taking out zeroes. 8 zeroes went down in week 3 but we need to get 'em all. Now we have 6 teams with 0's in their record. 3 (2 men's, 1 woman's) at the top, and 3 (2 men's, 1 woman's) at the bottom. So far it's looking like week to week scores don't matter. And as I've said before, last year's final teams were 1-4 at one point. Records mean nothing at this point.

Speaking of zeroes, the first shutout of the year was recorded on Monday. The Life Savers failed to render aid as the Jedi Knights appeared as mere padawan learners in a 16-0 shellacking. Pitching has been slow to find the strike zone but as the weeks have moved forward the mats are under heavier fire and more batters have been forced to swing. In the other game, the GR Horses earned their first win of the year with a 9-3 victory over the God Chasers.

Things are looking up in terms of homerun numbers this year as several guys have gone yard already, compared to just 1 all last year. Ironically, the 1 last year also belonged to the team with 1 win. Looks like this year those that can crank it will have a much better shot. One of those 0 win teams this year had victory stolen away with a furious 2 inning rally. Jesse Crane's 3-run homer over the left field fence seemed to be the early kill shot in the game. Just like with any horror movie, all you have to do is see how much time is left, and if it's only half way through, you know that monster ain't dead. So it was with the Turmanators as they kept coming and coming until they took a fragile 1-run lead into the final at bat for the Falcons; and unfortunately, for the first inning of the game, the Falcon did not score. Thus, 2 zeroes are kept alive for another week.

I had the pleasure this week of getting to observe a team that cheered and pulled for each other whether up or down in the game. Everybody on the team was talking each other up and having a great time. Like the saying goes, happy employees are productive employees. That's this team. The core of the team is the same as the one that pulled off the season championship as a 7th seed; Triumph. They deserve tremendous credit in building each other up and settle a great example as a team. They let a late lead slip away against Man Up. in the late game, but regained focus to pull out the last inning win. Look out for these guys as the season wears on.

Get ready for 1 more week of play before we take a break the next week to observe Independence Day.

Blessings!

Probably not so much if you won your game of the week yet still fell in the standings, which is what happened to 4 other teams this week. The appropriately named, Beginner's Luck, leapt 5 positions in the league standings after sweeping their double header to take over first place. Beginner's Luck, named by new coach, Peter May, bestowed the moniker due to his position in May's player draft, 8, the number of new beginnings. New coaches usually don't fair so well, however in 2007, rookie coach Mark Rigsby rattled off a bunch of 1 run wins and won it all with his 4th seed Longhorns in the post season tournament. You never know, might just be luck.

Over in the ladies league, get prepared for many Star Wars references, you will, as 1 of the 5 teams in the league is named the Jedi Knights. Like Beginner's Luck, the force has been strong with the Jedi Knights as they've beaten their 2 opponents by a combined 14 runs. Just getting warmed up, I am. Big game this coming week as the 2 undefeated teams face off in their first of 2 meetings, Jedi Knights v Life Savers.

Be in prayer for Cary Jester, a player on Triumph. He was hit in the face with throw from the outfield that broke his orbital bone and sinus cavity. The news is no surgery is required but this is a very painful injury. Pray for the pain to dissipate and for a quick recovery so he can rejoin us.

Game of the night goes to 2 offenses that didn't see a pitch they didn't like, the Archangels and Howitzers. It was clear the winner would probably be the last team to bat as both teams were plating runs with regularity. That team just happened to be the Howitzers. The sportsman of the night also comes from this game. Take note all you senior citizens or guys over 14. In what is usually the most trash talking position, catcher, 14 year old Bryce Perry took the opportunity to bless each opposing batter as they stepped into the batter's box. "Good luck", "nice hit" were just some of the greetings Bryce hurled at the opposition. This is exactly what we want to see and what this league is all about. Not just being a good sport here and there, but every play lift someone up. Great job Bryce! Charlie, be proud of your boy! The Perrys are a shining example in this league.

To bookend Beginner's Luck, the Archangels dropped both of their double header games dropping them behind the pack at 0-3. Good news is one 1/3 of the angels fell so they are already there. Figuratively speaking, the sky's the limit. But seriously, both teams in last year's final were 1-4 at one point. In this league early season records mean nothing in the end. 5 no win teams remain. Let's cheer them on this coming week.

Everyone likes something new. Even when we know what's coming, it's still mysterious and begging to be explored. We can help ourselves but smile and dive into this simple pleasure. Thus is opening day in SGC Softball. Now that the wrapping paper's been torn away and the bow removed and put on the cat's head, we have our shiny new toy. What's that? This is a special edition of SGCSL? New and improved including a women's league! WOW!

After a 1 year absence, the women reclaimed the fields and the opening hour of play. Lots of new and familiar faces all around. Big scores dominated the first hour as the winning squads won by comfortable margins. A win is just a win, no matter the margin. The Redhots and Grazing Raisin Horses (don't ask) will have a chance to stake claim to the win column next week as they face off.

Week 1 usually brings out all sorts of folks that we wouldn't normally see at the end of the season. The stands are full. Entire rosters are usually available to play. It's a big day. But 1 such team didn't have that turnout and had to play 1 player short in, no less, their double header day. The SEALs playing with only 9 fielders and gaping holes in the outfield were shelled in game 1. But just as it seemed this nightmare was turning sweet, Team Dream's left fielder secured the final out after the SEALs made a furious comeback that fell short by 1 run with the tying run on 2nd. Game 2 saw them fall by 1 run to Reggie Taylor's G-Force, who claimed 2 victories in their double header day. Who knows what could have been for them if just 1 more man had been there for the game. If you are a player and can't attend a game any week of the season, let your coach know ASAP so they have time to find an adequate replacement.

On a side note, it's great to see a team composed of a lot of the same guys as last year, who won only in week 1 last year (yes, that's 1 game all year), double their win total already. Now we just need all the other goose eggs to disappear. We like a league of parity.

A reminder to our adoring fans: PETS, wheeled toys, play guns or swords, and play fighting are prohibited from the park.

Sportsmen of the week are Michael Bell and the Archangels. When pitching to a first time player they chose to extend the at bat by a strike or 2 to allow this rookie to make some contact before mercilessly throwing him out at first (I kid). It didn't have an effect on the outcome of the game but it did have an impact on the life of a youngster just trying to belong in a men's league. Kindly accept this electronic high five. This is the stuff this league is about.

For all the negative connotations surrounding Monday, it's pretty cool; in an Eddie Haskell kind of way.

See you all next week. Shalom!

Don't miss the first day of the season. Tomorrow, Monday, June 6th, at 7 PM at Lockheed Martin's Corsair Park.

Here they are as drafted, your 2011 SGCSL Men's Teams:

Reggie Taylor - Coach
David Joseph
Curtis Hamilton
Cameron Lakey
Robert Tollin
Jason Kunz
Robert Leach
Daniel Joseph
Enoch Garris
Joshua Ragland
Jonathan Leach
Richard Adejuwon

Danny Foster - Coach
Jesse Crane
Keris Collier
Jeremy Crane
Andrew Vera
Mark Carroll
Tim Goring
Jaime Michel
Shawn Mansell
Carey (CD) Lawhon
Jonathan Stewart
Matthew Watabe

Cory Woods - Coach
Jason Barnes
Rick Barron
Steve Grandinetti
Scott Massengale
Jimmy Simental
Rodney Meadows
Tim James
Mack Barron
Chesley Davis
Justice Woods

Wayne Willis - Coach
Chris Willis
Quentin Willis
Stacey Darden
Brook Stokes
Gumaro Castillo
Harrison Stokes
Jason Westbrook
Kendall Isaac
Michael Tookes
Adam Lowe
Roy Williams

Michael Turman - Coach
Aaron Caines
David Cantwell
Daniel Price
Mark Cruz
Kyle Holland
Andrew Cantwell
Matthew Caines
Aron Anderson
Michael Gomez
Joshua Hearon

Keith Bulgerin - Coach
Bryan Carter
Greg Carter
Chuck Carter
John Hardin
Michael Singleton
Steven Taylor
Michael Kalmar
Dan Hilton
Buddy Zahn
Sam Hilton

Laique Fazal Din - Coach
Raique Fazal Din
Labique Fazal Din
Anique Fazal Din
Ryan Reed
Wesley Walters
Casey Crawford
Ricardo Tagliaferro
Matt Merton
Alexander Martin
Matthew Martin
David Walters

Peter May - Coach
Joshua Sedillo
Matthew Sedillo
Phillip May II
Simon Sedillo
Eric Sharpe
Phillip May
Geoffrey Lee
Matthew McKethan
Arturo Salazar
Ciprino Ruiz
Michael Sullivan

Doug Hartzell - Coach
Nick Economou
Lafyette Spruill
Todd Dubuisson
Efrem Zealey
Mike Bumgardener
Charlie Perry
Caleb Beene
Easton McDowell
Christopher Beene
Kyle Bumgardener
Bryce Perry

Michael Bell - Coach
Jorge Morales
Tim Casbeer
Robert Salinas
Cesary Morales
Anthony Bell
Matt
Rickey Casbeer
Jacob
Michael
Dustin Green

Austin Benjamin - Coach
Landon Benjamin
Sean Richardson
Jamie Holley
Jeffrey Kral
Darnell Robinson
Ben Conkel
Dan Gerdt
Asher Richardson
Cedric Washington
Roberto Glasgow
Steven Gonzalez

Mike Knight - Coach
Tim Meyers
James Gadberry
Chad Martin
Calvin McCrary Jr.
James Money
Greg Gadberry
Joel Money
John Money
Bryand Freeman
Arturo Hernandez

Brad Lee - Coach
Zack Faught
Chad Adamson
Cary Jester
Curtis Herring
Lucas Robinson
Jeremy Kaps
Angelo Smith
Guillermo Vera
John Wheeler
David Suess

Paul Grove - Coach
Stevan Parra
Robert Price
Daniel Grove
Joel Maldonado
Andrew Grove
Steven Grove
Randy Thompson
James Grove
Wes Flores
Isaiah Flores

The Women's Draft is this Saturday........

I've personally been a part of this league for 8 years and have been on the league committee for 4 years. I wouldn't consider myself a softball junkie but I do play recreationally during the year (It's my only physical activity). Christmas comes 2 twice a year for me with this league. It is unlike any other league I have played in, in any sport. I love playing the game but it's the people involved that make it so special. I almost feel bad when my team beats another team b/c the guys on the other team are fantastic. To me, this is the league I really want to play my best and win. Before each summer is over we are just a bunch of friends playing for fun and bragging rights.

The league is comprised of about 40% of people associated with Shady Grove Church, with the remaining 60% coming from outside. Several families play together (father/son/grandfather) on a team. Guys play with co-workers or classmates. Only people 13 and under cannot play. True, the skill set is diluted by being all inclusive but the level of competition is very intense.

Games are played at Corsair Park in Grand Prairie, Texas. This is a completely fenced in, private complex of 4 fields. We are the only league that plays on these field over the summer. The fields are, by far, the best I've played on (no bad hops in the infield/no outfield potholes/manicured).

One of the biggest complaints about women's sports is the over competitive nature. This element is greatly dulled in this league. Teams are very encouraging, especially to those learning to play. League history has revealed the most talented team does not always win; but more times than not the team that lifts each other up does. It's a place to play, be uplifted, and have fun with some great gals.

Last season there were 10 mens teams and 3 womens teams of about 13/14 players. In the recent past there have been as many as 14 mens and 8 womens teams.

At the end of each game night a large group goes to the Whataburger east on 303 (Pioneer) to get caught up on the night's action.

This time of year turns Monday to the best day of the week and Tuesday, the new Monday.

The season opens up very soon. Oil up those gloves, shine that bat, lace up those cleats or tenni's. You coach will be calling in early May after the draft. Can you smell the freshly cut grass yet?

With a little less than a week to sign up but sure that time doesn't slip away. Invite your friends, family, or co-workers to play with you. You'll be hard pressed to find cheaper family fun for the entire summer.

So I've been asked a couple of times: "What else do I need to pay for after signing up?"

Here's what else you need:
-Glove

That's it. I recommend you get cleats (NO METAL ALLOWED) too, to avoid injury; and a pair of sunglasses.

For $35, you get a jersey, private fields every Monday, quality umpires, a summer full of fun, and new friends.

What a bargain! No catch or small print! Sign up with confidence!

Starting this Sunday, 3/27/11, softball sign ups for men and women begin at Shady Grove Church. Of course, sign ups are going on now online. See direction below. Deadline is 4/25/11. Don't wait and miss out. See you Sunday and on the fields.

So, our league's been around for 8 years and we've had various people documenting all the fun. I started by adding the few photos I had and now, Mrs. May has started adding to the number. Go check them out on our Facebook page. I want a piece of that 2003 White Team!

2011 Softball Update

Women's league is back on!

Sign ups start in late March for both men's and women's leagues. Stay tuned.

Time's gotta away from me.....

Here's how the playoffs finished up.

The #7 seeded Muster played #1 seeded Warriors. This was a grude match fueled by lots of fake trash talking from the coaches. Muster even showed up to the pre game prayer in their best casual Friday Hawaiian shirts. Muster jumped out to a big early lead. The Warriors battled back to tie and had the based loaded before their rally was halted as time expired. In the extra inning Muster went down quick giving the Warriors a chance for the win. The got a runner in scoring position but were denied. All monkeys broke out in the next half inning. The Warriors' pitch who will remain nameless started a walk-a-thon, loading the bases and walking in several runs. The Warriors were clearly flustered and went down swinging.

The #6 seeded Laiquers lead most of the way and closed out #5 seeded 300 for the 2nd time this year setting up a #6 vs #7 championship.

In my opinion, this was the best championship game, not because of the action but because of the great sportsmanship within the game. Both teams tacked on runs the first inning but Muster exploded for a huge lead. The game seemed all but over but the Laiquers hung tough and got within 4 runs before bowing to Muster's championship mustard.

It was a great year!

Here's the dialog between playoff opponents Wayne Willis and Brad Lee. Come see who's the best come Monday.

Wayne:
Why are we wanting to change things up now? We seeded the first round, why deviate from that now? Surely Muster isn't concerned about playing the little Warriors? Honestly it doesn't matter to me, we will take on all comers but reseeding does make more sense in that is rewards the teams that were consistent and had the best records during the season (Muster is one of the few teams that handed us a defeat this year, so that adds to the intrigue).
Why wasn't a 4th option added Warriors vs. Laiquers?
My vote is to leave it as is presently stands or draw straws...those are the most fair since they pair proper seeds or it is the "luck" of the draw.
My 2 cents gentleman....looking forward to everyone else's thoughts.

Wayne:
Let's keep the discussion going....I am standing on my desk, pounding my chest and looking for someone to jump on! What a Testosterone buzz...haha!
Seriously, it doesn't matter to me which route we take. I am having so much fun, we could play each team back to back to back until we are defeated or...we are the last team standing.
I just appreciate you guys and thank you for a great season!

Brad:
Oh yeah? Well I'M standing on the ROOF, yelling about how much we're gonna kick Warriors butts and that Muster is gonna hand them back-to-back-to-back-to-back defeats!

Brad:
Not yet. I 'm waiting for Wayne's come back. He's probably circling in a helicopter over a practice field with a bull-horn running his team through bear crawl drills and sliding exercises.

Wayne:
Actually you are close Brad. I actually shipped them off to Fort Hood and they are going through a "mini boot camp" this week with the 1st Calvary Division! I had to call in several favors but I was able to make it happen....I believe it will pay off.

Brad:
I asked Romo what he thought I should do. He suggested I send my players and their wives and families to Cancun for the week - all expenses paid.
I'm pretty sure both teams will be worn out and draggin' come Monday night. It will come down to just YOU and ME.
Just how bigga boy are ya? You ready to open up a can?

Wayne:
I agree with your assessment Brad and I thought the same myself...
That is why I am spending the entire week at the Copper Aerobics Center in Dallas on a strict training regiment, AND I am about to start my 3rd cycle of Dianabol (Anabolic Sterioid which is NOT on the banned substance list at Shady Grove) (JUST KIDDING) AND I am spending at least 3-4 hours a day in the Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber revitalizing my cells...I would say I will be so "AMPED" come Monday night, IT WILL BE ON LIKE DONKEY KONG!

Bell:
I don't care either way, as long as it doesn't interfere with Team 300's knitting class.

Brad:
Sorry for the late reply. Tony Stark just notified me that I could borrow his suit for the night.

Wayne:
You guys keep "yukking it up" and not taking this seriously...it will come back to bite you! I have been checking on my team every hour on the hour to make sure they are following their stringent training regiment. I just finished with my hot stone massage, then I will be on my way to get a pedicure and then it's off to watch Cocoon at the Activity Center.

Denise:
You're all weird.

Haven't been an updates b/c I haven't had adequate time to do a good one. Lots has happened in the past 2 weeks. The 1-5 seeds in the playoffs were pretty clear with a few head-2-head tie breakers used, but seeds 5-8 were a mess. For those last 3 spots there were 5 teams with the same record of 5-6. Not one of those teams had a clean sweep of the others. They all beat each other in some combination. Some scored more runs. Some allowed fewer. Some beat teams at the top of the standings. Some beat more of the 5-6 competitors. It was too close for 1 man to call. Back in 2007 there was a similar problem. A handful of men were chosen to discuss and decide amongst themselves based on how the teams played the season. Though not a perfect plan, the same strategy was employed. 2/5 of the men were greatly disappointed, but someone has to lose in competition. The results were the following:

Laiquers 5-6 In
Muster 5-6 In
Sons 5-6 In
SG United 5-6 Out
Special Ops 5-6 Out

Fast forward to yesterday. 3 of the 4 higher seeded teams lost. The only to hold serve......the last 2 year's champion, Warriors, who handily beat the 8th seeded Sons 10-4. The other games were much closer.

With the score 8-8 with time expired, the home team Bat Breakers had men at 2nd and 3rd. Somehow the Laiquers held back the winning run. In the first extra inning (1-pitch) the walk-a-thon brought in 2 runs for the Laiquers. Then they shut down the home team to hold on to the 10-8 victory.

In the earlier game the bases were loaded with 2 outs in the last at bat for the home team Spartans. 300 led 11-10 with a full count on the nameless batter. The deciding pitch was on the way. Pitcher, Mike Bell, knew it was a stinker; too high. The batter swung anyway, tomahawk style. He got the ball but it landed foul for the 3rd and game's final out.

The last game of the night saw 7th seeded Muster gaining a comfortable lead and holding off the Kingfishers 8-4.

In the bottom (draft) bracket, named for the 4 teams battling for the highest draft pick for 2011, there were surprises. In the first game, the 1-10 Da Bomb Unit took on one of the teams left out of the top playoff, SG United. Some how, some way, DBU came from behind to win 9-8. Later, Special Ops received a free pass to the final with a forfeit win over the Overcomers. The Overcomers have been ravaged with health issues this year and it finally cost them a game.

Come out next week for the semi-finals and final of the top bracket and the finals of the draft bracket. Also, visit the concession stand to try some of the new snow cone flavors dreamed up by our ice artists. This will be the last week of the year for SGC Softball, don't miss it!

This was a week for gatherings at home plate. Collisions, dives, flops, and tags described the various meetings at the plate. Usually, if someone is pressing their luck by charging home they usually make because of overthrows or fielders not wanting to let other runners advance. Not this week. These game changing plays happened at home plate on the green field.

It started in the first hour. Sons v Overcomers. Jon Sidler motored home. Yours truely saw the player covering home had his back to the play so I took something off the ball to give that player a chance to make a play. To my surprise the tag was lightly applied for the out. Let's commend the tagee, Jon Sidler. He was called safe but had the integrity to admit he was tagged for the out. Later in the same game, the speedy Aaron Caines looked to score on the overthrow home. However, the Overcomer catcher, Gerard, nimbly dove to the plate just after the runner's foot crossed home.

In game 2, Kingfishers v Da Bomb Unit, Sean Richardson tried on the speedy Curtis Hamilton. It appeared Sean would make it first. He lunged head first but so did Curtis. The tag was applied on Sean's calf before he touched home. Gutsy play of the night by both men.

Not sure on the game or players but during a close play on another field on a head first slide, the runner missed home. The runner knew it and leapt towards the plate in despiration but was nabbed by the catcher for the out.

So with the week 5 runners versus catchers the final score is in favor of the catchers 3-1. Just in case you were keeping score. Never count out the underdogs.

I want to recognize Danny Foster and his Overcomers this week as more sportsman like team of the week. Along with Jon Sidler falling on his sword in the name of integrity and brotherhood, Danny called for pitches in an intentional walk situation. Ultimately, the Overcomers lost but they've won something far more valuable than a silly game, honor, integrity, and the respect of the men. You guys are a shining example to the purpose of the league.

Changing directions, what is the deal with the wind? I don't know how many times I've been burned in the outfield with the wind giving preferential treatment to the batter. I've also seen league vets flub routine fly balls. Of course, it holds some fly balls for easy outs. As annoying as it can be it sure provides much needed reliefs during the hot, humid evenings. For me the jury is still out on if this wind is welcome at Corsair. Initial polling results don't look promising.

Standing review: Good news is that there is still time for Da Bomb Squad to squeeze in the playoff picture. The bad news is that time is running out. It should be a tie breaking finish to determine the whole picture. We have a new leader in the club house, the Warriors. They usually mail in the regular season and turn in on come August but they've come out of the gate on fire. Come out and support your favorite team and players next week.

God bless you all! Go home!

It's been a couple of weeks but here's an extra big helping of update!

I want to thank everybody who has helped in getting us adjusted to our new gate protocol which helps the folks at Lockheed Martin. I know it's been confusing and, sometimes, frustrating, but thanks for hanging in there. Special thanks to Danny Stowe for spearheading this effort!

Now to the Stuff.

Zombies invaded Corsair Park on Monday night all with the usual feet dragging, moaning, seemingly lifeless. You'd think after 3 weeks of no games that there'd be a buzz in the air from pent up excitement. The air was a thick, wet blanket and so was the play and chatter. The inactive layoff along with the blanket are probably to blame. For me personally, I blame the big dinner, but no doubt everyone was not feeling their happy slappy softball selves. I expect a big comeback next week. You can all help by amping up for the games with a couple of Pixie Stix washed down Red Bulls & espressos with Pop Rocks. That combo might revive any zombie.

This week started the 4 week condensed schedule with all but 2 teams having 2 games weekly. It's intense but it's a lot of fun with non-stop action for all teams. Boy did the standings change with so many games. The distance between the first and the not so first team is big. However, with 8 teams making the playoffs no team has clinched and no team is close to being eliminated. That will make each week more exciting as the final 8 picture comes into focus. For the 4 teams on the outside looking in, there will be something fun to play for you too. Hint, hint.

Game of the night was in the 8:45 hour, 300 vs Spartans; sounds like a city-state divided. 300 quickly jumped out to a 8-0 lead. It looked hopeless for the Spartans. They got a few runs here and there but 300 matched them. Then the Spartans caught a spark and closed the game to 13-14. The final out was recorded with the possible winning run on base. 300 keeps pulling out close games. It's leading them to the final 8 but will it prove future success? We'll see in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, the Bat Breaker continued on a tear and leapt into the top spot with 2 wins with a combined score of 22-6, with one game a shut out. So far, so good, but it gets significantly tougher next week when they face the 2nd and 5th place squads with a combined 8-4 record.

Last week's top team, the Overcomers took a tumble with 2 close losses by 2 and 1 runs. I have no doubt they will be back in the win column very soon.

Don't look now but our back-2-back league champion Warriors are in the middle of the hunt, ahead of their usual slump this year. They sit in 3rd with a 4-1, and handed the 300 their only loss of the year.

Which of the 1 win teams will muster up enough to overcome? Come out to the park and stay tuned to find out.

Bad news keeps pouring today. 2 hours before we had to declare today's games rained out we were informed of the July 4th holiday being observed Monday, July 5th at Lockheed Martin. What does that mean? There will be no games played that day. Enjoy extra time with family, friends, and lolcats.

So I repeat: NO GAMES JULY 5TH!

There you have it, rainout #1 in the books. For most of us we found out after 6. Why so late? We were watching the radar all day. One hour it looked like it would be a light rain clearing up right before game time. Then in the next hour, it looked like an all night downpour. It alternated hour after hour. The deadline for a decision was 4:45. After talking to grounds keepers they said the fields were playable and the forecasted radar looked favorable, the decision was made to play; even if we just played 7 PM games before the rain. However, the next hour things turned ugly. It took a personal trip to the fields to confirm what most already knew. Rainout.

Sorry if some of your got there or were on the way. We didn't want to waste any time but we really wanted to avoid a make up date. As of now we have 2 weeks to make up (I'll explain that soon enough).

Week 2 helped to solidify the continued tradition of league parity. There are 2 undefeated teams, 300 3-0 & Warriors 2-0, and 1 winless team, Muster 0-2. 300 turned in the highest run scoring game of the season so far with a 18 run barrage of the Overcomers.

Speaking of the Overcomers, in their 2nd game of the night the play of the night was made by Steven Parra. With a ball about to rocket past him he leapt a perfect 45 degree angle and caught that probably home run ball. To top it off he received the sportsman of the game honor from his team with the award of a free snow cone. On the way out of the dugout he saw an exhausted little boy. Dirty, practically skin and bone, he handed the coupon for that hard earned snow cone to that little boy. What a hero!

Thanks to all those involved in making Monday nights a treat for everyone!

Now to that "enemy" at the gate. He's really a friend of the league. He's our gate attendant, Danny. For everyone's safety we are asking everyone to stop at the gate and talk to Danny before coming in. He'll be asking why you are here. Just answer something to do with softball. This is filter out those that might not belong in the park to keep everyone a little safer. Please be respectful to him. It's a hot, hard job, but someone's gotta do it. Be sure to thank Danny for his hard persistent work.

Just a reminder: drive 20 MPH to protect the occasional pedestrian. All drivers are observed at all times by Lockheed Martin and Shady Grove Softball. This season we will be visiting with repeat offenders. Please don't be THAT guy.

Monday will be here before you know it.

Going...going...........................

Happy opening day!

Congratulations on being the first numerical team in league history. We did have One Thing and Thirteen, but those were spelled out. So, 11 roster players down, 289 to go. They're out of the gates with a nice, and league leading, 2-0. It took some extra time as game 2 over the Sons had to go to an extra inning to be decided. Though short handed 300 is now on top of the standings, for now.

Wacky play of the day goes to Michael Gomez of the Sons. He had it going on Forrest Gump style. "I figured I should just keep on going." Not satisfied with taking 1st base, he took 2nd in a sure out setting but there was a miscue; not satisfied with 2nd base, he took 3rd. They had him now, but another fielding miscue, over throw. Now he was headed home. The 3rd baseman was flabbergasted and wristed a ball home to the catcher, but too little too late. Wild Man Gomez - 1, 300 infield - 0. This play of the day is sponsored by Lee's Snow Cones. Every sportsman of the week, like Wild Man Gomez, is entitled to a free snow cone compliments of Lee's Snow Cones.

Check our schedule for weekly scores.

Rest up and get ready for a full 8 games next week.

Ever wonder why some players are just that good? Some are just born with it, others eat their Wheaties or drink their milk, then the rest just buy it. The right glove, shoes, sunglasses, or bat do make a difference. Stores will offer you seasonal coupons, but the best deals are on eBay. I bought my $270 bat last year for $120, brand new with plastic wrap and 1 year warranty. Just make sure you are buying from a reputable dealer.

This year, and over the past couple of seasons, the visiting teams of the 8:15 games have been responsible for cleaning up the area around the field they just played on, including the stands. This policy is the same this year. In the past softball committee members have stayed long after the complex has emptied to pick up the park and parking lot. Coaches, please take the initiative and encourage your team to help shoulder this load so everyone can go home ASAP.

Friends, family, and fans, please pick up after yourself and encourage others to do the same. Also, if you see trash under the stands or on the ground, please dispose of it. The players of the late games will get to leave much quicker. This will help us all keep Corsair Park tidy. As of now, we are the only league allowed to play at this facility because of our diligence in cleaning before we leave. Help us be an example to Lockheed Martin and those around us by being responsible for our litter.

Thanks in advance from the softball committee, teams, and Shady Grove Church.

Here's this year's softball jersey logo put together by Brad Lee. Let's give him major credit. The past couple of seasons he has worked into the wee hours of the night, and weekend, to put together these jerseys with sponsors and creative logos. This is in addition to his normal assistance on the softball committee. Great job, Brad!

I don't remember how it started but I remember the invitation a couple of years ago to join a group after the Monday night games at Whataburger. I expected a couple of people or families but the place was packed with people from our league. Most of the time I ended the evening sipping on a chocolate shake discussing who won, the controversial plays of the night, and possible rule changes. My wife would join the ladies and talk about lady things (I don't know what that means). Most of the times the ladies would goad us into leaving well after the restaurant staff locked the doors.

Consider joining us this summer after the game at what is commonly referred to as the happening place, Whataburger on Pioneer Parkway just east of Great Southwest.