OaklandLakesHurricanes: 'Canes News

2010 Season "Close Out"

July 24-25, 2010 "Union City Slam"Tournament 

The 'Canes began the tournament in Flint with a hard fought 6-4 victory over the West Bloomfield White Sox. Scott Zychowski posted 3 singles offensively while Josh Behm and Zach Kopy toed the mound.  In the afternoon game, the Grand Blanc BobCats jumped out to a 5-2 leed only to watch the 'Canes came back for a 9-6 win. Zach Kopy once again was strong in relief on the mound as he posted the win.  The 'Canes defeated the Rochester Rockies on sunday morning to earn the right to play for a chmpionship on Sunday afternoon.  Pitching and defense were key as they held a scrappy NFWB team to a lone tally on their way to a 3-1 championship victory.  Mike Miron and Jayden Boman  combined for the 5 hit, win.  Boman was on base all weekend as he posted 8 hits to lead the 'Canes to their second tournament championship of the season.  Great job team.

July 17, 2010 Team Party at Jespersens!!!!!!!

Once again this year, we would like to thank the Jespersen family for opening their home and hosting the team party.  Also thanks to Mrs. Gieselman for providing the team DVD's.... as always, they are GREAT!!!!  Thanks to all parents for providing the food, the generous coaches gifts and spending your time with the team.  We look forward to one more weekend of baseball as the team plays at the Union City Slam in Flint 7-24/25.  Thank you all so much for your patience and understanding this season.  The kids have done well and hopefully have enjoyed their 'Canes experience.  

July 17-18, 2010 "Battle of the Bats" Tournament 

The team looked to be competetive in a U14 "Battle of the Bats" Tournament at Total Sports Complex in Wixom. They opened up a bit flat on saturday as the 'Canes lost to the WLSA Arsenal- Gray in the 1st game.  Scott Zychowski then pitched 4 solid innings to help defeat the Plymouth Canton Vipers in the afternoon game.  On sunday, the bats got hot as they mercied the NFWB Panthers and Performance Training Center to finish the tournamnet 3-1. The team missed advancing to the championship by 1 run and finished 3td for the second straight tournament.  Trent Bekker was 7-10, Josh Behm hit .667 and Jayden Boman hit .636 for the weekend to lead the 'Canes offensively.  Mike Miron was 5 for 9 with a home run and Anthony Lewis also rapped out 5 hits including 2 doubles, 2 triples and 6 rbi. In 4 games, the team scored 48 runs and hit .485 collectively. Great job 'Canes.

July 12, 2010

The 'Canes got right back into league play as they hosted the "AA State Tournament" runner-up South Lyon Thunder in KVBSA finale's for both teams. Scottie Zychowski scattered 4 hits over 4 innings as the 'Canes jumped out to 5-1 lead through 4.  The Thunder kept chipping at the lead and managed to tie the game with 2 outs in the seventh. Several S Lyon errors in the bottom of the ninth lead to a no-out, bases loaded, fly ball over a pulled in outfield by Dylan Jespersen to drive home Jayden Boman for the 6-5 win.  The 'Canes completed their first season of KVBSA Open Division play with an 8-4-2 ledger, finishing behind the MC Hit Dogs and just 2pts behind the S Oakland A's in third (out of 12 teams) place.  Great job, 'Canes!!!!!!

July 8-11, 2010 "Battle in the Capitol" Tournament

June 30, 2010 

The 'Canes bats fell silent as the MC Hits Dogs' pitching was dominant as they dropped a contest at home to the leagues top team.  They break for the 4th of July weekend and resume the H/A series wth the Dogs on Tuesday.  Have a safe and fun holiday!!

June 25, 26 & 27, 2010 "AA" State Tournament in Canton 

The team got it started early as they opened with a decisive win against the Troy Jet Box then dropped a 5-3 game to the Eastside Eagles on Friday in the state tournament in Canton. The 'Canes bounced back with a 12-4 victory against the Livonia/Michigan Bulldogs on saturday to conclude pool play. Unfortunately, their 2-1 record was not good enough to advance to sunday's games. Scott Zychowski yielded just 1 run in 7 innings of work over 2 games and went 3-3 a with double in the win against Livonia.  Bo Pickens had 5 hits including 2 triples while Jayden Boman and Ben Besh knocked out 4 hits on the weekend.  The 'Canes get back into KVBSA play wednesday as they host the MC Hit Dogs.   

June 15-17, 2010

The 'Canes resumed KVBSA play as the Northville Broncos visited Geisler.  In a poorly played defensive game, the 'Canes were able to hang on for the 1 run victory. Jayden Boman and Colin Gottschalk each had 2 hits in the win. The 'Canes fell flat on the road on thursday as they were defeated by the Livingston Hurricanes in Howell.  The bats were silent and the defense once again shaky as they dropped to 6-2-2 in the league.  The team appeared to be healthy as they posted a comeback win on Wednesday against a tough NFWB squad at Geisler.  The Cobras put up 10 in the top of first but the 'Canes cut it in half in the bottom part of the frame. They then held on for 16-15 slugfest win. Bo Pickens, Josh Behm and Jayden Boman each swatted out 3 hits with Pickens knocking a triple, double and 5 rbi.  

June 12-13, 2010 USSSA SF Blues Invitational

Despite being short handed and dinged up, the 'Canes hung tough all weekend and put together a great 5 game run to claim their First Tournament Championship of the season.  The team downed Troy Jet Box and SF Blues on saturday to set the stage for sunday rematches against the MI Red Sox and the Lapeer Outlaws.  The 'Canes hung on to defeat the Red Sox 12-11 in the opener but could not close out the Lapeer Outlaws in the second game. They allowed 4 in the bottom of the 7th inning to fall by a tally of 9-8. That set up a Lapeer v 'Canes finale that saw the 'Canes fall behind 4-0 after 3 frames.  The 'Canes battled back behind a 14 hit attack, 6 for extra bases to earn the hard fought 10-5 victory. Colin Gottschalk led the offensive onslaught by knocking out 3 hits including 2 doubles (8 hits for the weekend). Josh Behm, Sam Perkins, Ben Besh and Scott Zychowski had 2 hits apiece in the final.  Jayden Boman bounced back to throw a gutty, 6 hit complete game to earn the win. Josh Behm knocked in 7 runs for the tournament while Anthony Lewis contributed 3 doubles and 2 triples and a great effort behind the plate. CONGRATULATIONS 'CANES!!!!

June 9, 2010

Poor defense and inconsistent pitching once again were the downfall of the 'Canes as they were soundly defeated by the S Oakland A's in a KVBSA game on Wednesday.  Danny Gieselman went 3-3 including a double and Anthony Lewis had a pair of doubles in the losing effort.  The 'Canes try to right the ship as they open with Troy Jet Box in the South Farmington Blues Invitational Tournament saturday morning.  Good luck.

June 5-6, 2010 USSSA "AA" Canton Classic

The team struggled to get timely hits as well as with defensive lapses as they dropped the first game of the Canton Classic to Trenton. They rebounded with a shut out victory over the BC Hawks and then dropped a well played 3-2 game to the MI Red Sox on Sunday.  Jalen Cooper and Dylan Jespersen pitched well for the 'Canes. Jayden Boman went 7 for 10 with 4 rbi for the weekend.  The team gets back to tough KVBSA action as they play at Geisler MS on wednesday.

June 2, 2010

The 'Canes got back to the diamonds this week facing the Novi Heat Black in poorly played league action on Wednesday. The team cameback from a 6-3 deficit to salvage a 8-8 tie after 8 inn. They head back to the tournament trail as they  participate in the Canton "AA" Classic this weekend  in Canton.  Good luck team!  

May 25, 2010

The'Canes broke out the bats in a big way as they hammered out 16 hits to post a win against the N'ville Mavericks.  Josh Behm led the way with 3 hits and 3 rbi while Boman, Gottschalk, Jespersen, Perkins and Zychowski knocked out 2 hits each.  Dylan Jespersen pitched 22/3 of scoreless work while Anthony Lewis turned in another great game behind the dish. The 'Canes take a break for the Memorial weekend and will get back into action next week at Geisler.  

May 22-23, 2010 USSSA Liberty Park Classic- Sterling Heights, MI

The 'Canes fought the elements and themselves as they dropped 2 on saturday to the Lapeer Outlaws and then the Macomb Crush. The team gave up the lead in the Outlaws last at bat to drop a tough 3-1 game. Danny Gieselman gave up 1 run on 2 hits over 4 innings of work.  The rain and field conditions became a distraction as the team then gave into the Macomb Crush in the second game. Scott Zychowski had a pair of rbi for the 'Canes.  The 'Canes gritted out a 4-2 victory on sunday vs the Dearborn Heights D'backs. Jalen Cooper and Jayden Boman scattered 5 hits and gave up 2 unearned runs over 7 innings.  Boman also had 3 singles for the 'Canes.  The team gets back into KVBSA action as they travel to Plymouth for a rematch with Northville Mavericks.        

May 15-16, 2010 USSSA TAGS Tournament-Hartland, MI

Nice weather for baseball finally found the 'Canes as they finished Saturday as the top seed in Pool A at the TAGS Tournament in Hartland. The team got the job doneny beating the Detroit Metro Cubs and the Howell Hawks, then after finding themselves down 12 after the top of the first inning, came back to salvage a 13-13 tie. The bats sizzled as the 'Canes scored 33 runs in first day action. Unfortunately, the semi-finals were a different story as the 'Canes could not solve the MI Slammer pitching and went down to defeat.  The 'Canes look to get back to work next weekend by playing in the USSSA Liberty Park Classic in Sterling Heights.  Go 'Canes.

May 12, 2010

The 'Canes finally got back to the playing field at Geisler as the Canton Cardinals were in town for some KVBSA action. The team broke out the "hot bats" as they ripped 17 base knocks in route to the win. Jayden Boman and Josh Behm had 3 base hits while 4 other 'Canes had a pair including Colin Gottschalk who knocked in 5 runs.  Boman and Danny Gieselman slowed the Cardinal attack holding them to 5 hits on the night.  The 'Canes head to Hartland for USSSA Tournament action this weekend. Good luck 'Canes.     

May 3, 2010 

The 'Canes took to the road as they resumed KVBSA action in Brighton against the the Bulldogs-Black. The game was tied 2-2 after four but the 'Canes continued to push across runs to pull away to a hard fought 8-2 victory.  Jayden Boman (4 inn)and Josh Behm held the 'dogs to 2 unearned runs on 2 hits. They walked 2 while striking out 8.  Boman posted a single and double from the plate while Sam Perkins also has had a pair of singles.  The 'Canes are off 'til next wednesday when they take on the Canton Cardinals at Geisler.

May 1-2 MI Wood Bat Tournament- Hartland

The 'Canes "broke" out the lumber for some wood bat action in the Livingston Storm tournament at TAGS field in Hartland. The team defeated the W.Oakland Warriors and the South Lyon Pride on saturday then unfortunately, were "washed" out of sunday which would have seen the 'Canes take on the MI Red Sox in championship game action.  Jack Vitek tossed 4 scoreless in the opener while Dylan Jespersen, Sam Perkins and Trent Bekker led the team offensively. The team received runner-up honors for the 2nd straight tournament, this time due to losing the tie breaker. Congratulations 'Canes. 

April 21,27,28

The team opened KVBSA league action with back to back battles against cross town rival ANCA Nationals.  Pitching dominated as the teams dualed to a 2-2, 8 inning draw in the opener. Danny Gieselman and Jayden Boman shared the hill for the 'Canes allowing 4 hits while walking only 2 and striking out 13. In the follow up,  the 'Canes defeated the Nat's in a poorly played defensive game. Boman, Ben Besh and Sam Perkins had 2 hits each in the win.  The 'Canes handled the Northville Mavericks as Dylan Jespersen threw 31/3.  Nine different 'Canes got in the hit column with Colin Gottschalk posting a pair of singles. The 'Canes head to Hartland for The 4th Annual Storm Classic Wood Bat tournament this weekend. Good luck TEAM!!!!!  

April 17-18, 2010 

Once again the temps remained in the 40's and winds whistled as the 'Canes traveled to Sylvania, OH for their first tournament of the season. The 'Canes swept the Hartland Stars, MI Mustangs and Brighton Orange in first day action. Jayden Boman threw 6 tough innings against a very talented Mustang team allowing only 1 run on three hits. Sunday proved to bee much more challenging as the team twice faced a strong Detroit Bee squad. The bats went silent as the 'Canes lost in morning pool play and then fell again to the Bees 9-1 in the afternoon Chamionship tilt.  Ben Besh, Jayden Boman and Dylan Jespersen led the 'Canes offensively with 6 hits apiece with Dylan knocking in 12 runs for the weekend. Congratulation 'Canes.....2010 Buckeye State Preseason Championship- Runner-up.   

April 8, 2010

The 'Canes faced temps in the 30's on a blustery early April evening in Michigan as they knocked off the winter rust against the FH Tigers @ Geisler Middle School in Commerce. The team has had a busy opening week as they have faced the H'land Eagles, MI Red Sox and HV Patriots- U14 squad in early season action.  The 'Canes look to improve and produce all-around more consistent play as they open the season in earnest with tournament action at GAMEDAY USA- Sylvania, OH April 17-18.  Good luck to all 3 'Canes teams that will be participating in this event!  GO 'CANES!!!!!

The 'Canes kick off the 2010 KVBSA league season next Wednesday against the ANCA Nationals at Geisler Middle School.

The 'Canes would like to welcome Trent Bekker to the squad.... welcome Trent! 

January 5,2010 

Winter workouts have begun under the guidance of Carey Sherbrooke at The Edge training facility in Commerce.  We hope to improve our players strength/ agiliity while gaining a better understanding of injury prevention as well as instilling an appreciation of conditioning that the team will intergrate into their everyday lifestyle. The 'Canes look forward to starting their baseball specific training both at the NCS and Total Baseball in the upcoming week.

NEW Teammates

The Oakland Lakes Hurricanes would like to welcome Sam Perkins, Jalen Cooper, Anthony Lewis as well as all the returning players to the  2010- U13 team. 

Congratulations... Sam , Jalen and Anthony!!!  

AUGUST 30, 2009 @ 1pm Gilbert-Willis Park in Wixom.

JULY 26, 2009 @ 1pm     Gilbert-Willis Park in Wixom.

2010 U13 Oakland Lakes Hurricanes Baseball CLub Tryouts.

We look forward to continuing our player's skill development and best preparing them for the next level. Have a great summer, do your best in school, enjoy your other sports and activities.... See you at fall/ winter practice. 

2009 Season Close Out:

WOW...... What a season!

Once again, these players and families exceeded all our expectations!  It has been truly a pleasure and privilege to be allowed to coach this group of special ball players and be associated with your families over the past seasons.  Thanks to all the parents for your cooperation, understanding and patience.  Without each one of you, the 'Canes experience would not be nearly as enjoyable.  Cooperstown was beyond our dreams..... worth every bit of effort and worry. It was great fun and we are glad we could share it with you.  We believe the boys grew as a team and as individuals as they continue to mature as ball players and young adults. Thank you for being an integral part of the 'Canes experience. Have a great summer and as always.... GO 'CANES!!!!

Coach Zychowski and Coach Boman  

July 25, 2009 'Canes Team Party @ Jespersen's @ 3pm.

Thanks again to the Jespersen family for once again hosting the 'Canes end of the year party. We hope everyone enjoyed themselves. It is a great time to remember that each year, each team is unique and no 2 teams are ever the same.  Win, lose, good, bad..... at this age, I hope we all understand it is largely about just playing ball with your buddies.  Each day, season, ballplayer, friend are amazing gifts we should all be so thankful for.  It was alot of fun watching Mrs. G's DVD's from year's past. Thanks again Kelly for all the photos and team DVD's over the years.  Thanks to the Boman's (Kubiks) for the Cooperstown game DVD's.... They are awesome.  Congratulations to all the 'Canes that distinquished themselves this season as ballplayers, competing hard and displaying class and sportsmanship all year....   Great season, 'Canes!!!!     

July 21, 2009- KVBSA Finale

Tuesday night, the 'Canes traveled to Northville to take on the Broncos in both teams final game of the season. The 'Canes jumped out to 3-0 lead behind 3 strong, no hit innings of work by J Vitek but the Broncos pushed 3 across in the bottom of the 5th due to 'Canes miscues in the field.  The game went to extra innings when B Besh lined a 2 strike, 2 out single to center to drive in a pair and the 'Canes held on for the 5-3 win. The win raised the 'Canes record to 3-1 in extra inning games. D Jespersen led the 'Canes offensively as he ripped a triple and single.  The 'Canes closed out KVBSA play with a 20-1 mark, finishing the season with a 46-10 overall record.... Great season, 'Canes!  

 July 17-19, 2009- Millington Tournament

The 'Canes completed their tournament season with a second place finish in the Millington Athletic Association Invitational going 4-1 for the weekend.  A lack of hitting combined with one poor, defensive inning lead to a loss to the eventual champion, the Orion Chargers in the friday night opener.  The 'Canes came back with convincing wins against the Saginaw Scream, LO Dragons, Richfield Renegades and Charlevoix Baseball to close things out.  Colin Gottschalk knocked out 8 hits for the weekend while J Boman had 6 with 5 rbi. D Jespersen knocked in 8 runs over the 5 games. J Boman also tossed 6 strong innings for the 'Canes.  Great job team.

July 15, 2009

The 'Canes welcomed the Ann Arbor Hawks to Wixom for a KVBSA American League Playoff tilt and came away with a thrilling 5-4 come from behind, walk off victory. The Hawks had built a 4-1 heading into the bottom of the 5th when the 'Canes pushed across 2 sparked by a B O'Donnell double, cutting the lead to 1 heading to the bottom stanza.  With one out, J Vitek managed an infield single and D Giesleman followed with a surprise bunt single moving JV all the way to third.  That set up  J Puscas to slap a bounding single up the middle past a drawn in infield scoring JV. A miscue in the AA outfield allowed DG to blaze around the bases and reach home with the winning run.  D Gieselman once again pitched 3 solid innings in relief to keep the Hawks close.  Way to keep battling, 'Canes! 

The 'Canes travel to Millington this weekend to play the Orion Chargers, Saginaw Scream, Orion Dragons, Richfield Renegades and Charlevoix squads in round robin tournament action. Good luck, 'Canes. 

July 11-12, 2009 

The 'Canes opened up the MI Bulls Tournament in Dearborn against the AAA MI Slammers after a rain delay on saturday morning.  The 'Canes took a 1-0 lead on a D Gieselman single in the 4th but after the Slammers tied the game in the fifth, they pushed across another run in the bottom of the 7th for the win.  J Vitek pitched great for the 'Canes tossing 2 hit ball over 4 shut out innings of work.  He struck out four. Big Jack also had 2 base hits in the effort.  The 'Canes looked gassed as they lost the second game of the day to the Monroe All-Stars.  After falling behind early, the 'Canes came back to beat Outcast Bsaeball in their final game of the tournament. J Vitek and S Zychowski each had 2 hits for the 'Canes.   D Gieselman threw 3 1/3 of relief.  The 'Canes travel to Millington next weekend for a 6 team round robin tournament. 

July 8-9, 2009 

Five different pitchers combined for the team's 11th shutout of the season as the 'Canes posted another KVBSA win over the Novi Heat Red at Total.  Colin Gottschalk and Scottie Zychowski each knocked in a pair of runs  in the victory.  The 'Canes finished out the KVBSA season with a win over the Livingston Storm and an impressive 18-1 league mark.  Bo Pickens crushed a pair of triples while J Boman and D Gieselman had 2 hits and 3 rbis a piece.  C Gottschalk and S Zychowski also added a pair of singles each for the 'Canes. The 'Canes head back to the tournament trail as they will play the MI Slammers, Monroe All-Stars and Outcast Baseball in pool play of the MI Bulls Tournament starting saturday in Dearborn. Congratulation 'Canes and good luck this weekend!

Have a safe and happy 4th of July weekend!

June 30, 2009

The 'Canes posted a 13-11 win over the Northville Mustangs at home to close out June and they open July with a game at home against the L'ston Storm this evening. The 'team completes KVBSA play next wednesday (7-8-09) on the road vs the NOVI Heat Red.  They will compete in the Michigan Bulls Baseball Tournament in Dearborn, July 10-12.

June 26-28, 2009 - AA State Tournament in Canton

Th 'Canes let a 9-4 lead slip away in the sixth but managed to push across a run in the extra frame to escape with a 10-9, 7 inning win over the Mid-Michigan Bandits in the opener of the state tournament on friday evening.  Brendan O'Donnell went 3-3, scoring the winning run and working the final 1 1/3 for the win.  The 'Canes defeated the ATH Stampede in the second game of the tournie with Bo Pickens going 3-3 with 3 rbis. J Puscas and S Zychowski had a pair of hits each in the 4 inn win.  A 7 run Elite second inning proved insurmountable as the 'Canes fell to the Michigan Elite- Black 10-7 in the nightcap and final game in pool play. ME-B went on to eventually become the tournament champion. Bo Pickens was once again 3-3 with 3 rbi in the loss.  Although the 'Canes battled throughout and ended with a respectable showing, they were unable to advance to the medal rounds. 

The 'Canes get rested and ready to play the Northville Mustangs and the L'ston Storm @ Total on Tues and Wed of this week as they near completion of KVBSA play.    

June 24, 2009

The 'Canes improved to 15-1 in KVBSA play as they defeated the Pinckney Pirates in route to clinching their 2nd consecutive KVBSA Divisional crown.  Bo Pickens knocked in 4 runs and went 3-4 including a tape measure, 2-run blast in the first.  D Gieselman and C Gottschalk both had 2 hits, a pair of rbi and reached base 4 times in the win.  

CONGRATULATIONS 'CANES!!!!!!!! 

The 'Canes once again take to the tournament trail this weekend as they open the AA State Tournament this Friday against the Mid-Michigan Bandits.  Games against ATH Stampede Black and Michigan Elite- Black will close out pool play on Saturday in Canton. 

Good Luck 'Canes!

JUNE 12-19, 2009

WOW!!!!! What a Week of baseball and friendship in Cooperstown!

As the 'Canes team and families arrived in C'town on Friday afternoon, they soaked in the picturesque view of the perfectly groomed fields against the backdrop of an early summer's crystal blue sky and  rolling countryside. The perfect setting for a week of baseball.... and pin trading.  Before the players could fully check into their dorms, the swapping of pins with other teams had begun in the parking lot.  After settling on their bunks, the players headed off to meet other teams and continue to broker their pins.  Saturday found the team preparing for the opening ceremonies and practicing for the skills competition.  Although wet and chilly, the 'Canes proudly paraded onto Championship Field to the "roar" of their families and fans.  Bo Pickens highlighted the evening with a top 10/102 finish in the roadrunner competition.  After watching the homerun competion and enjoying some pizza as a team, it was back to the dorms to rest up for our first game.  

Sunday June 14, 2009... Start of Pool Play.

The chill of the opening ceremonies was soon forgotten as the 'Canes took the  field on a beautiful Sunday morning in their first "pool play" game against the Homer (IL) Inferno.  The 'Canes broke open a 2-2 game in the third as they pushed across 5 runs highlighted by the 1st 'Canes Cooperstown home run, a towering, three run, Danny Gieselman blast over the left field wall. J Boman and J Vitek combined to pitch the 'Canes to the 9-2 win.  Gieselman, B Pickens, D Jespersen and S Zychowski each knocked out 2 hits a piece.  In the nightcap, D Jespersen and J Vitek delivered solo blasts in the 5th to the extend the 'Canes lead as they hung on to gain the 9-8 victory against a determined Lawrence County (PA) Scrappers squad. D Gieselman threw 3 strong for the 'Canes second win of the tournament.

The competition improved as day two saw the 'Canes draw the Salem (NC) Baseball organization in their first game of the day.  The 'Canes jumped out to 2-0 lead in the 4th as B Pickens drove a 3-2 pitch over the right center wall. The homer was one of 3 hits for BP in the game.  The 'Canes just could not close it out as  M Mitchum hit a 3-run homer in the bottom of the 5th for the 3-2 Salem win.  B Besh and J "Pudge" Puscas led the team defensively as they flashed the leather all tournament in the middle infield.  Colin Gottschalk played strong in Center giving the 'Canes great defense up the middle. The team quickly shook off the defeat as they jumped all over the Sussex (DE) Slammers in the nightcap on their way to a 13-1, 4 inning victory. B Pickens knocked a pair out of the park, driving in 4 and D Jespersen had 2 hits including a 2-out grand slam blast. Ben "BBW" Vitek also knocked in a pair of runs for the 'Canes as the team climbed to 3-1 after 2 days of competition.  After 3 nights in "lockdown", the team and especially COACHES really enjoyed the cook-out at Hartwick Pines campground hosted by the "moms" (and grandparents) on Monday evening.  The team hit the pool and "played more baseball" and had a GREAT time. Outside of one knot on the head, one bloody toe and a pulled groin, it was quite relaxing! 

Day 3 brought out the toughest teams to date as the 'Canes took on the Lakeland (FL) Tigers, currently ranked no 1 and AAA state champs for south FLA.  After giving up 2 runs in the first, J Boman battled 6'2" FLA flame-thrower D Till pitch for pitch. JB left the game trailing 3-1 but gave the 'Canes the opportunity to knock off the highly touted Tigers. It was an outstanding, gritty performance by Boman.  The 'Canes pushed across 4 runs in the 5th, highlighted by a 2 out, three run shot by J Vitek to take a 5-3 lead.  Lakeland used a pair of 2-run jacks in the bottom half of the inning to take a 7-5 lead.  As they did all tournament, the 'Canes battled to their last out as D Gieselman cleared the left field wall to bring the 'Canes within one but the rally fell short and the 'Canes lost 7-6. Following the game, the extremely experience home plate umpire from LA called the teams together and told them how this was one of the best played, most emotional, hard fought 12 year old games he had ever been a part of.  Players, coaches and fans exhibited sportmanship and class from beginning to end. Just another unforgettable, proud moment for all the 'Canes family!   Following the game, the 'Canes hopped the bus and headed into town to experience the BB HOF and the town of Cooperstown.  Although a bit hurried, it was a great learning experience for all.  Thanks to Mrs. Kubik for securing the team seats on the bus for the return trip to the Dreams Park.  The nightcap and final pool game found the East Cobb Thunder waiting for the 'Canes. The Thunder jumped all over a bunch of 'Canes pitchers and sent the team home early.  Once again, the pitchers battled for every out and showed no quit (even in defeat) against a very, very good ball club.  The 'Canes finished pool play 3-3, earning a 50th seed and 2 byes entering Tournament play on Wednesday.  GREAT job, 'Canes!!!

Wednesday June 17, 2009.... Tournament Play.

Believe it or not, BB Wolf showed up to wake the team! Rrah!

Tournament Game #1 

As the top seeded powers rested their arms, teams at the bottom of the rankings worked their way through the bracket at the start of tournament play on wednesday.  As expected, the 'Canes faced off against 51st seeded West Boca Panthers- Black in their first tournament game at 3pm.  B Pickens lined a Boca breaking ball over the bag at third to drive in B Besh and J Boman in the fourth for the only runs of the game and a 2-0 'Canes win.  J Boman and J Vitek combined for the victory allowing only 4 hits and turning in a tough, shut out performance. Defense was once again key as the 'Canes played errorless ball, turning in a double play and picking off 2 Boca baserunners.  Great job, boys!

Tournament Game #2

The 'Canes had little time to enjoy the victory over Boca as the highly regarded and 15th seeded Southeastern Bobcats awaited them for the first pitch in Round 4 at 5:30.  Once again, the 'Canes fell behind early as the 'Cats pushed across a run in the bottom of the first. D Gieselman pitched well, containing the high powered 'Cats attack until the third when Big J Vitek delivered a 2-run shot over the center field wall to put the 'Canes up 2-1. The 'Cats would not go away as Storm Murray drove a 3-1 fast ball into the evening sunset to put his team back on top, 4-2. The 'Canes continued to battle and with one out in the fourth, J Puscas singled and D Gieselman drew a walk. After S Zychowski lined hard to right for the second out, B Besh singled to load the bases.  After a throwing error by the pitcher scored JP, J Boman followed with a walk to relaod the bases. D Jespersen then lined a sharp single to center scoring DG. BB was called out at the plate trying to score the go ahead run on a controversial call. All tied 4-4.  'Canes confidence SWELLED! That score held into the sixth as DG opened the top of the frame with a single.  After apparently being picked off first, DG swiftly broke to second and made it safely.  With 2 outs, J Boman laced a first pitch fastball over the bag at third to score DG with the go ahead run. DJ reached on an error, to set up J Vitek who once again came through with an rbi single to score JB and put the 'Canes ahead 6-4.   J Boman pitched a scoreless 6th to post the save and preserve the most impressive victory in 'Canes history. D Jespersen tossed 2 scoreless innings in relief of DG for the "hold". A 6-4 total TEAM win. 

'Canes SHOCK C'town upsetting 15th seed!!!!!!!!!!  Hugs all around!!  WOW.... What a game!!

Tournament Game #3

Once again, the celebration was short lived as another top seed awaited the 'Canes for an 8 pm start in round 5. The 18th seeded NC Fury, jumped out to a early 2-0 lead in the first. The 'Canes again battled back as D Gieselman drove in JV and BP with 2 outs in the 2nd to tie the score at 2.  That score held until the top of the fifth when S Zychowski started the inning reaching on a fielding error and B Besh followed with a walk. J Boman grounded hard to the first baseman and SZ was thrown out on a close play at the plate. D Jespersen  and J Vitek both followed with rbi singles and the 'Canes led 4-2 with bases still loaded. The Fury showed why they were a top seed as they turned a 4-6-3 double play to kill the 'Canes rally and keep the game within reach.  Fatigue was evident as the 'Canes players started to show the effects of playing 9 games in 4 days and 3 in 7 hours. Sore arms, bodies and minds led to a 'Cats rally in the bottom of the fifth. An error, 3 walks and sharp single to right field allowed the Fury to push across 3 runs and end the 'Canes run with 5-4 defeat.  This time, the slipper did not fit and the 'Canes magical run had come to an end.

WOW!! What a run it was!  Once again, hugs soothed the entire team as they held their heads high, totally exhausted but extremely proud of their weeklong accomplishments.  The 'Canes finished the tournament with an overall 5-4 record, dropping 3 (1) run decisions but finishing in the TOP 30/102.  The coaches were left speechless as the 'Canes parents presented them with custom, 'Canes Cooperstown bats after the game.  All the coaches were extremely grateful and would again like to thank the team for the gifts.  The real gift was allowing us to spend the time with such a great group of kids and families.  I think we all would agree, we could not imagine doing this with any other group. Thanks again to all of you that supported us and helped make this such a FUN, memorable experience.  All the worries, smelly socks and sleep deprivation was all worth it!!!!!

As many headed back home or continued their vacations, the families that hung out on thursday watched some of the final round action (in the rain). The Lamorinda (CA) Cougars defeated the Georgia Chiefs 7-4 in the finals to win the tournament.  We would like to thank the Gottschalks for hosting the group thursday night and allowing us to sit in real chairs, have a beverage and watch real TV.  It was a great evening before continuing on the last legs of the adventure.  Thanks again to all and as always,

GO 'CANES!   

JUNE 12-19, 2009

COOPERSTOWN or BUST!!!!!!

Once again, I would like to thank all the parents and families that have helped make this trip a reality.  The players are extemely fortunate to have families that are willing to give of themselves to make times like this happen. Enjoy each other and HAVE FUN!!!!!!

DRIVE SAFELY.......See ya there!

PS: Go Wings!!!!!!!!! 

June 10, 2009 

Dominant pitching was once again the key to another 'Canes victory as the "Big 3" held a good Northville Mustang team to 1 hit while surrendering no walks and striking out 8. The shutout was the 3td in 4 outings (and 4th in 6) for the 'Canes staff.,  Led by Jayden Boman who faced the minimum with 3 strong innings of work the 'Canes pitchers continue to improve. JB also led the team offensively, banging out a pair of doubles as the 'Canes knocked out 10 hits, 4 for extra bases.  As the 'Canes reach the "Cooperstown Break", they have compiled a 28-2 overall record and are 14-1 in KVBSA play.  Great job, 'Canes.

June 8, 2009

Bo Pickens and Jayden Boman each rapped out a pair of hits as the 'Canes cruised to a no-hit, shutout victory over the Austin Americans.  The 'Canes head to the road tomorrow to take on the second place Northville Mustangs in KVBSA action. This will be the team's last game before Cooperstown!  Go 'Canes!

GO WINGS!  

June 8, 2009 IMPORTANT.......

As CH SMART MS celebrated their class graduation ceremonies today, we were extremely proud of every 'Canes player, both U11 and U12 that were recognized for their accademic achievements throughout the school year.  I am sure our student/ athletes attending Sarah Banks, Walnut Creek, Oak Valley, St. Williams, and Marist Academy have also all done well this year.  CONGRATULATIONS to each of our players moving on to seventh or eighth grade. Remember, these achievements are so much more important than baseball.......Enjoy your summer vacations! 

 June 6, 2009 

The team traveled to Hartland to play a doubleheader against the Stars and Eagles and left town with a split on saturday.  Jayden Boman and Jack Vitek combined on a 4 hit, zero walk shut out and waited for the bats to get going in the first game against the Stars.  In the night cap, the team started well but too many defensive lapses ultimately led to the 'Canes first league loss to the Eagles.  Bo Pickens slammed a 3 run homer and pair of singles while knocking in 4.  Danny Giesleman gave up just an unearned run in 3 innings of work. The 'Canes look to start a new league win streak as they are scheduled to take on the Austin Americans and second place Northville Mustangs in this week's KVBSA action.

June 4, 2009

The 'Canes bats showed their power as the team knocked out 10 hits, 6 for extra bases in a convincing victory over the FH Tigers.  Bo Pickens had a triple, double and walk in 3 chances while Dylan Jespersen knocked out 2 hits including a three run homer. Colin Gottschalk added 2 singles and 2 rbi for the victors.  The 'Canes travel to Hartland to play the Stars and Eagles in a saturday afternoon twin bill tomorrow.  Go 'Canes!

 June 3, 2009 

The 'Canes got back on the right track as Jack Puscas had a pair of singles and 2 rbi to lead the 'Canes to victory over the MC Pirates in Canton.  Josh Behm also had 2 singles and knocked in a run.  Three 'Canes hurlers held the swashbucklers to one hit and allowed only 3 baserunners for the shutout win.  The 'Canes are right back into action this evening as they take on another KVBSA American League Central opponent, the FHills Tigers in Wixom. 

May 30-31, 2009 "Pinckney Tournament"

After 2 decisive victories on saturday, the 'Canes hopes of going deep into their third straight came to an end as they were defeated by eventual tournament champion, the Canton Cardinals in their final game of pool play in the Pinckney Pirate Tournament.  The 'Canes were not able to get the timely hit while the Canton (eventual tournament champion)bats jumped out early and never looked back.  The 'Canes get back into KVBSA league action wednesday as they head to the road to take on the MC Pirates.  The 'Canes look to play 6 league games in the next 8 days before heading off to their much anticipated trip to Cooperstown.   Keep working hard 'Canes!

May 26, 2009

The 'Canes came out victorious as they did battle with the  Motor City Pirates resuming KVBSA action on tuesday in Wixom.  Jack Vitek knocked out 2 hits and had 3 rbis while Danny Gieselman led the 'Canes hurlers posting 5 strike outs in 3 scoreless innings of work. Weather once again postponed thursday's tilt against the Hartland Eagles.  Good luck to the team as they travel to tournament play in Pinckney this weekend. 

May 21, 2009 

The 'Canes defeated the Livonia Eagles to remain perfect in KVBSA action.  The team is certain to be tested next week as they play the M.C. Pirates and Hartland Eagles at home before they head off to the Pinckney Pirate Baseball Classic tournament next weekend. They will do battle with Target Steel, Onsted Diamond Cats and the Canton Cardinals in pool play. Have a fun and safe Memorial weekend. 

Happy Birthday to Michael Boman!

May 16-17, 2009 "Hartland Tournament"

The 'Canes returned to Hartland to avenge the defeat they experienced in last seasons championship game.  It was a different outcome this year, as OL dominated the competition to post their second tournament championship for '09.  The'Canes eliminated the N. Dearborn Diamondbacks, Saline Hornets and DeWitt Panthers in pool play and then beat the Back Yard Dreams Squad from Lowell to win the event.  The highlight of the tournament was a 1-0, extra inning walk off victory over a good DeWitt squad in the semi-finals.  In the bottom of the seventh, Brendan O'Donnell drew a 2 out walk and promptly stole second. Scottie Zychowski found the outfield grass with a single to push across the only run of the game and put the 'Canes into the finals.  'Canes pitchers were outstanding all weekend allowing only 7 runs as the "Big 3", Boman, Gieselman and Vitek did not allow a run.  Dylan Jespersen was a stand out from the plate all tournament posting 12 hits and 12 rbi's while hitting .750.  Jayden Boman went 10 for 13, hitting at a .729 clip while Scott Zychowski hit .667  with 8 rbis for the weekend.  Great job by the entire team!

The team will get in some practice and ready for a KVBSA tilt at home vs the Livonia Eagles this Thursday. Have a safe and FUN, Memorial Day weekend! 

May 14, 2009 

The 'Canes overcame a sluggish start to post a road kill at Southfield on tuesday.  Jayden Boman led the 'Canes with 3 raps and 2 scoreless innings on the mound.  Josh Behm knocked out 2 hits including a triple as the team pounded out 14 hits.  Thursday, the 'Canes returned home to post an interdivisional victory vs the Novi Heat Red.  Dylan Jespersen led the 'Canes with a triple and double. Jayden Boman ripped a pair of hits and Scottie Zychowski knocked in a pair with a single. Jack Puscas pitched 3 strong innings.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL CANES PLAYERS: 

May 10, 2009 MOTHER'S DAY.......

Remember: Do something REALLY special for your Mom (and grandmas) Today!!!

We are extremely fortunate to have just a "great" collection of Mom's on this team.  Thank you for all your help and understanding.....Without you the 'Canes would not be possible and definately not nearly as much fun!  Happy Mother's Day!

May 7, 2009 

Another rainout postponed the 'Canes game against the Storm (rescheduled for 7-1-09) last evening. Next week, the 'Canes head out on the road for a KVBSA rematch against the Southfield Indians then return home to take on the Novi Heat Red on thursday.  The squad looks to remain 'hot' as they return to Hartland on saturday 5-16 for the start of the "Hartland Eagle Challenge" Tournament.  Congratulations to Danny Gieselman and Jayden Boman............. 2009 U12 OL 'Canes captain and ass't captain, respectively. 

May 4, 2009

The 'Canes continued their hot hitting attack as they rolled to victory vs the SF Blues.  Jack Vitek hit a tape measure home run while Brendan O'Donnell added 3 hits. Four 'Canes pitchers toed the mound in the win. The 'Canes look forward to some time off before they get back into action at h