Cincinnati Gators: My Site News
Sunday, December 16Party Time - - Calling All Gators
Hey Everyone,
It's time for the 2007 Gators Annual Holiday Party! Mark your calendar for Friday, December 28th. We have expanded the invite list to include all Gators, not just the 2004 team. The entire family is welcome.
We will have it again at the clubhouse where Grandma "Brack" lives in Anderson. Just go to Mapquest and put in the condo complex address: 7355 Ridgepoint Dr. or click "Locations" to the left or the title of this article. It's off of Five mile which is sout of Beechmont and north of I-275.
We're starting at 7:00 and ending around midnight. Mrs $ and Mrs Terry are bringing Barbeque, so just bring a side dish or dessert and your own drinks. Please e-mail Mrs Terry with a reply as soon as possible (cterry@cinci.rr.com) or phone (232-3235) so we'll have an idea of how much food to bring.
We hope all are able to make it. Have a Merry Gator Christmas!
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Tuesday, June 26
T-Sto Earns 3rd Team All-American and MAC Player of the Year Honors
What a year! After switching his primary position from catcher to outfield, Tyler Stovall was able to focus a little more on hitting. And did he focus.
Tyler led the Mid-American Conference in Batting Average (391), falling below 400 at the tail end of the season and ranking as high as 2nd nationally (we tracked intra-day rankings), led the MAC in hits (88) and led the MAC in RBI (59). And just to show that he has outfielder's speed, not catcher's, he was 2nd in the conference with 20 steals! Tyler's efforts helped Central Michigan to a solid 35-21 record.
In recognition of the great season, Tyler was honored as the MAC Player of the Year and was selected by the ABCA (coaches) as a third team All-American! Tyler was also honored with other conference and regional awards. Congratulations on a great seson and good luck this summer in Maine.
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| Brack in the Day |
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Andrew Goes to Yanks in the First Round
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Andrew completed his college career by taking the junior season to focus on baseball. He had a solid season for NC State, anchoring one of the stronger staffs in the ACC with his former Moeller teammate, Eric Surkamp.
Andrew took the draft in stride. He was fishing with his dad on the Ohio River when he received the call. Let's see: June bugs on string in Tennessee; Gatorade Helmet on a hot day in the dugout; blazing fastball; fishing as you become a first round millionaire for the most storied team in the game. Yea. It all makes sense.
The GATOR FAMILY congratulates Andrew. Best of luck in the pros!!!!
[Click on the title to link to the Yankees website and the article discussing his selection.]
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T-Sto Stays Red Hot
Most players would be pleased with a 2 for 5 day. But, this year Tyler Stovall wouldn't - - it would bring his batting average down. As of 4/22, Tyler is hitting an eye-popping .444, the ninth highest batting average in the nation (click on the title to this article for a link to the rankings). Tyler is playing both outfield and catching and has hit mostly in the lead off and three hole of late. He has 64 hits in just 36 games. In addition, Ty is 2nd on the team in both stolen bases and RBIs. Central Michigan is off to a solid start with a 25-13 record. Keep it up Tyler.
Friday, March 16
Tyler Stovall Off to a Great Start
Tyler Stovall, Gators and Central Michigan catcher (and now sometimes OF/DH), is off to a great start: 20 for 40!. Click on the title to link to the Central Michigan's site and read the article about Tyler getting conference player of the week honors! Keep it up Ty!
Monday, November 20
Gators Christmas Party is Scheduled
From Mrs. $:
Hey Everyone.
It's that time of year for the Gators annual Christas party.
This year it will take place on Sat., Dec 23rd, at the clubhouse where Grandma "Brack" lives in Anderson. Just go to Mapquest and put in the condo complex address: 7355 Ridgepoint Dr. It's off of Five mile which is off of either Beechmont or I-275. You may also go to "Locations" for directions.
We're starting at 7:00 and ending around midnight. I'm ordering subs, so just bring a side dish and your own drinks. If you can contribute to the sandwiches, paper plates, etc. that would be appreciated also.
Try your best to reply as soon as possible via email (munns@fuse.net) or phone (232-9560) so I know how much food to order.
I hope all are able to make it.
Can't wait to see my Gator's. Mrs $
Tuesday, November 21
Share Photos through the Gators Website and Shutterfly
Sharing photos has just goten easier. Go to the "Photos" section of the website. You will see the old style albums (photos were uploaded onto the eteamz site server) at top. At the very bottom, there are new albums that link to Shutterfly. There is one site with a few low pixel photos (my initial effort) of Tyler Stovall (Wilson Tobs) and Ben Terry (Outerbanks Daredevils) playing against each other in the Coast Plains League (Summer of '06). The next album has a bunch of high resolution photos from the 2006 Wake Forest Black & Gold games. Many photos are of non-Gators (especially Ben's current roommate and freshamn roommate at Furman), but now that we don't have to pay for the server disk space, this is an easy way for me (and you) to share photos with others. I have enabled the site to accept albums from anyone. Just go to the "Photos" section and click on "Add Album" at the top of the page, then follow instructions. I hope to replace all of the old albums with Shutterfly albums and also add more albums and photos. In the past we were constrained by the cost of disk space.
PS: Ben and his roommate, Wily Fox, a transfer from Arizona State, had good debuts for the Deacons. Wily was 5 for 11 with 2 HRs; Ben was 4 for 7 with 2 2Bs, 3 BBs, a HbP and 4 runs scored. Wily is from Scotsdale and was invited to play for Arizona Subia in the CMWS, but decided to take some time off. The next year, he got to go to Omaha with ASU.
Tuesday, October 17
Brackman Decides to Focus on Baseball
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| Andrew Brackman - NC State |
Saturday, August 26
Ben Terry Transfers to Wake Forest
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| Ben with Outerbanks | |
Tuesday, August 15
Gators in Collegiate Summer Leagues
Four Gators played in Collegiate Summer Leagues in 2006. Andrew Brackman played at the Cape, Tyler Stovall and Ben Terry played in the Coastal Plains League and Jake Oester played in NY Collegiate Baseball League. See below for team links for the four hot-weather Gators.
Tuesday, August 15
Brackman Joins Orleans in Cape Cod League
Andrew Brackman returned to the mound after joining Orleans in the college baseball's premier summer league. Andrew missed most of the North Carolina State season after trying to pitch on a stress fractured hip sustained during the Wolfpack basketball season. He joined Orleans in early-July and pitched very effectively with a 1-0 record and 1.06 ERA in 6 games. Andrew then left Orleans to join Team USA for the World University Championships in Cuba where he started one game (no runs in 3 innings) as Team USA won every game to capture the U.S.'s first International Baseball championship on Cuban soil ever. Congratulations to Andrew for battling back in time to take the hill for Orleans and Team USA!
Tuesday, August 15
Ben Terry Spends Summer with Outerbanks
Ben Terry took his last exam at Furman then rushed to Kitty Hawk, NC to join the Outerbanks Daredevils of the Coastal Plains League. Ben hit .272 with 19 RBIs playing left and center field in 38 games. Ben's season was marred by a nagging elbow injury sustained at the end of Furman's 2006 campaign and by playing on a losing team for the first time since Knothole. OBX struggled in late innings. In the first half of the season, if they had held onto their 8th and 9th inning leads they would have won their division; instead they came in last! How do you spell relief?
Tuesday, August 15
Tyler Stovall Plays for Historic Wilson Tobs
Tyler Stovall joined one of the best-supported Coastal Plains franchises the WIlson Tobs (Tobaconists!; but it is a smoke-free stadium, now.) Tyler hit .232 in 47 games catching and DHing. Wilson went 28-22 in the regular season to qualify for the Coastal Plains Championship tournament (and extending an already brutally long season!)
Tuesday, August 15
Jake Oester Spends Summer with Allegany City Nitros
Jake Oester played for the Allegany City Nitros in his first college summer. Jake hit .209 with 13 RBIs in 45 games. Allegany City plays in the New York Collegiate Baseball League and finished with a 23-19 record to win the Western Division and place second in the League Championship Tournament.
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Andrew Brackman Joins Team USA for Trip to Cuba
Andrew Brackman was invited to join Team USA and will travel to Cuba for the World Championship Games. Brackman pitched sparingly during the college season for NC State after suffering a hip stress fracture during basketball season. He began pitching in the Cape Cod League in July and obviously was impressive. He was 1-0 with a 1.06 ERA in 17 innings. Last Wednesday, Brack pitched a shutout inning against the Fayetteville (N.C.) Swap Dogs of the Coastal Plain League in a 4-1 exhibition win. Check "Links" for a link to Team USA's website.
To Brack from Rocky: "If something happens to Fidel, keep your head down!"
Thursday, August 10
Brack Pitches Well in International Play
Andrew Brackman started and pitched three innings against Mexico as Team USA remained undefeated in the FISU World Championships in Havana, Cuba. Brack gave up one run on one hit and two walks, leaving with a 4-1 lead. He also K'd three. Team USA relinquished the early lead, but went on to win easily, 12-5.
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Gator vs Gator (Cent Mich 14, BGSU 11)
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Monday, January 2
Brian Hangbers Transfers to Bowling Green
Brian Hangbers transferred to Bowling Green university from Louisville in time to suit up for the 2006 season. Brian was signed by louisville as a pitcher, but B-G plans to use Brian's bat asa well as his arm. Brian has the Gators' single season records for most home runs (16) and RBIs (60) set in the summer of 2004. Good luck to Brian as he changes feathers.
Monday, December 26
Gators' Winter Reunion
The Gators gathered at Salem Gardens for dinner on Friday, December 23rd for their winter break get-together. Coaches Ritter, Munninghoff and Gramps were there, but Marty and Phil missed becasue of work commitments. The Brackman, Oester, Munninghoff, Simpson, Stovall and Terry families were all there. In addition, Ryan Williams, Matt Heber and Pat Philhower attended. The Hangbers sent their regrets and wished everyone well. The next reunion will be in August after summer ball.
Tuesday, May 31
Jake Oester Heads to Toledo
Jake Oester signed with the University of Toledo Rockets on a baseball scholarship, bringing to twelve the number of gators playing NCAA athletics (2 football, 10 baseball). Jake helped lead his McNicholas Rockets to a very successful high school season and garnered All-City honors. He played Connie Mack for Franklin Savings in 2005, winners of the USSSA National Championship played in Orlando. Congratulations and good luck to Jake and the Rockets.
Wednesday, June 15
Five Long-time Gators See Action at D-I Level
Five Gators saw significant action at the Division-I level.
Drew Brackman, P, NC State. Drew joined the baseball team after starting much of the year on the hardwood for the Pack in the tough ACC. Drew established himself as one of NC State's premier starters. Despite his late start on the diamond, he posted a 4-0 record with a 2.09 ERA in 10 games, 7 as a starter. Drew had 43 strikeouts in 43 innings, including 12 against UNC on April 29th in a 6-5 win. The 12 K's were the most by an NC State freshman since 1987. NC State qualified for the NCAA Regionals in Lincoln, NE, so Drew got to play in the NCAA tournamnet in both hoops and baseball! Not bad for a freshman.
Matt Heber, P, U of Cincinnati. Matt made 20 relief appearances for the Bearcats, going 1-0 with a 4.44 ERA.
Sean Munninghoff, P, U of Cincinnati. Sean made 19 appearances, 10 as a starter. Sean pitched most of the season as a weekend starter in the tough Conf-USA. Sean was 3-4 with a 4.88 ERA.
Tyler Stovall, C, Central Michigan. Tyler appeared in 29 games, 21 as a starter. In 73 at bats, Ty hit .260 with 5 doubles and 7 RBIs.
Ben Terry, OF, Furman. Ben appeared in 48 games, 34 as a starter as he took over LF for the Paladins at the season mid-point. Ben hit .284 in 148 at bats with 5 doubles, 1 home run and 16 RBIs. The Paladins won the Southern Conference tournament to qualify for the NCAA regionals at Georgia Tech.
More later will be added about the players who joined us for the Connie Mack World Series run as all three saw action last year.
Wednesday, June 15
NCAA Firsts for Freshmen Gators
Five Gators saw Division I NCAA action in their Freshman year. Below is a list of Division I "firsts" for Gator players as they begin competing at the college level. Division III firsts will be added soon.
First Games, by Player:
Sean Munninghoff: 2/11/05 vs. Florida Atlantic in a 7-6, 13 inning, opening day Cincinnati loss. Sean was thrown into the fire, starting the bottom of the 13th inning. He walked two, gave up an infield hit and a sac fly for the loss.
Ben Terry: 2/12/05 vs. High Point in a 15-3, opening game, Furman win. Ben played left field in the seventh and eighth innings, and he batted once in the eighth, popping out to second.
Matt Heber: 2/13/05 vs. Florida Atlantic in an 11-9 Bearcat loss. Matt pitched two-thirds of the seventh, allowing one unearned run on the lone base runner allowed, via a walk.
Tyler Stovall: 2/19/05 vs. Alabama-Birmingham in a 7-2 Central Michigan loss. Tyler caught the home half of the eighth.
Chad Baker: 2/27/05 vs. Rider in a 6-4 Pittsburgh win. Chad pitched to the last batter of the 6th and the Entire 7th, allowing just one BB and notching two strikeouts, holding a 5-4 lead at the time for the Panthers.
Drew Brackman: 4/2/05 vs. Virginia Tech in a 10-7 win. Drew came into the game in the fourth and pitched 4 innings, allowing 3 hits and 2 unearned runs in his NCAA debut.
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PITCHING FIRSTS
Appearance: Sean Munninghoff, 2/11/05. See above.
Win: Sean Munninghoff, 2/20/05 vs. Duke. Sean started, pitched the first five innings, allowing just one run on three hits. He left with a 6-1 lead and U.C. went on to win 6-3.
Loss: Sean Munninghoff, 2/11/05. See above.
Save: None.
Strikeout: Sean Munninghoff, 2/12/05 vs. Florida Atlantic in an 8th inning relief appearance of a 6-3 Bearcat loss.
Complete Game: None.
Shut-out: Drew Brackman (6 IP), 4/20/05 vs. East Carolina in a 3-0 win. Drew teamed with two ohter Wolfpack teammates to record a shutout in his first NCAA start against a ranked ECU team. Drew allowed just 2 hits and struck out five on his way to his first decision.
Double Digit K-Games:
- Drew Brackman: 12 K's in 7 IP vs. North Carolina. NC State won 6-5 as Drew had the most strikeouts for a freshamn NC State pitcher since 1987.
POSITION PLAYERS:
Game: Ben Terry, 2/12/05 (Game 1). See above.
Hit: Ben Terry, 2/12/05 (Game 2) vs. High Point in a 9-5 Furman loss. Ben singled between third and shortstop pinch hitting in the bottom of the ninth.
Double: Tyler Stovall, 3/10/05 at Eastern Kentucky in a 19-1 win. Tyler doubled to center field to lead off the fourth.
Triple: None.
Home Run: Ben Terry, 4/10/05 at Elon in a 19-3 loss. Ben lead off the game with a home run to left centerfield, but the lead did not last long against the Phoenix. QUIZ: Who was the Gator with the most plate appearances without a home run?
RBI: Tyler Stovall, 3/6/05 vs. Georgetown U. in a 6-5, 10-inning win. Tyler singled to center in the 6th to tie the game at 4-4. Ty added another RBI in the 8th on a single to center.
Run: Tyler Stovall, 2/26 vs. Western Kentucky in an 8-4 Central Michigan win. Tyler scored in the 5th after knocking a single to center.
Stolen Base: Ben Terry
BB: Tyler Stovall, 2/26/05 vs. Western Kentucky in an 8-4 Central Michigan win. Tyler walked in the 2nd, but was forced at 3rd later in the inning.
Multi-hit Game: Tyler Stovall, 3/6/05 vs. Georgetown (see RBI). Tyler was 2-4 with a BB and 2 RBI's.
3+ Hit Games:
- Ben Terry: 4/17/05 in an 8-2 win vs. Western Carolina. Ben went 3-5 (all singles).
- Ben Terry: 4/24/05 in a win vs. Wofford. Ben went 3-5 with a 2B.
Put-out: Tyler Stovall, 2/19/05, on a strikeout in Tyler's first game (see above).
Complete Game Played (7 inn.): Tyler Stovall, 2/26/05 in an 8-4 Central Michigan win over Western Kentucky. Tyler caught the entire game for the Chippewas.
Complete Game Played (9 inn.): Ben Terry, 2/27/05 in an 8-2 Furman Paladin win over Ohio University. Ben played left field the entire game.
Friday, August 13
New Player Folders Added
The Gators are finished on the field, going 47-15 in 2004, including Connie Mack Regional and State Championships, and a trip to the Connie Mack World Series in Farmington, New Mexico. The plane trip back from Farmington will be the last official Gator function. The four Gator years (and years before as Indians) have provided ecitement and many memories. The friendships that were made along the way are speical, and most special to many of us are the players. To help keep track of the players, especially their college athletic pusuits, this site will be maintained. Links to the players' school sites will be provided as well as any articles about their achievements. To check out a player, just click on the name of the player in the "Menu" area on the left side of this page. The players are more or less in the batting order that was used for most of 2004. (The site template "only" allows 16 customized folders, so we had to double up on players who may not play next year and/or were late season pick-ups. Sorry about that. We'll fix it as soon as the expand the number of folders.) Keep coming back to visit the site. Please send player information or updates via the "Guestbook" or via e-mail. Players: Thanks for the great times.
Chomp!
Monday, August 9
Midland Ends Gators' Season
Probably for the first time in Connie Mack World Series history, two teams from the same city played each other when the Southwest Ohio League's Cincinnati Gators and Midland Redskins travelled 1,500 miles to square off for the second time this year. Unfortunately for the Gators, the result was the same - - a convencing loss - - that ended the Gators' season. The Gators were again plagued by fielding miscues that led to a huge inning. After taking a 1-0 lead in the second, the Gators gave up nine runs on four, and arguably five, errors in the bottom of the third. The Gators battled back, but were 8-run ruled on a 2-run shot by Tito Espinosa in the 5th to push the final score to 14-5. Despite the loss, the Connie Mack World Series was a wonderful experience. Not only was the Farmington hospitality unbelievable (more on that in a later posting), but the support and encouragement of the Midland Redskin coaches went a long way to healing a four year rivalry dating back to after the 1999 season when the 15-year old Gators were formed out of the 14-year old Midland Indian team.
Monday, August 9
New Yorkers Spoil Hospitality of New Mexicans
Farmington has been incredibly friendly and hospitable when dealing with New Mexicans. The same cannot be said for encounters with New Yorkers. The Gators were crushed 16-1 in their Connie Mack World Series opener against the South Troy (NY) Dodgers. Though ultimately outplayed by the Dodgers, a little luck the Gators way would have helped early on. In addition to strong hitting by the Dodgers, the Gators were victimized by high bouncing grounders over third base, line dives just inches fair, a grounder getting through after hitting the infield grass, and a couple of questionable calls at first base. But, Gator mistakes and the DodgersÂ’ taking advantage of every opportunity sent the Gators to an elimination game this afternoon at 5:15pm Mountain Time, 7:15pm Eastern, against the Cincinnati-based Midland Redskins. NOTE: The time change is a result of the Farmington Sky Sox game being moved to night, in accordance with Connie Mack Tournament Rules regarding host team scheduling.
The Gators prospects looked good when Ben Terry led off the top of the first with a walk. But, Sean Mannington hit a hard grounder right at the shortstop for a double play, despite SeanÂ’s seamingly beating the throw to first. The Gators got two more first inning base runners on walks, but left them stranded. The Dodgers scored one in the first and four in the second on a combination of solid hits in the gaps, grounders bouncing unexpectedly, and line drives just inside the foul line. But the wheels really fell off in the fourth. A one-out dropped pop-up at first was all the encouragement the Dodgers needed. They proceeded to bang out 10 hits, including 2 home runs, to score 11 times and put the game totally out of reach.
The Gators avoided the shutout with back-to back doubles from Ben Terry and Sean Munninghoff, his second of the day. Jake Oester collected the other Gator hit with a double in the second.
Wednesday, August 4
Farmington Room Pairings with Host Families
The following pairs have been placed for Host Families. Players: Check the Guestbook. Several Host Families have sent you messages!
1. Sean Munninghoff/Ben Terry
2. Ryan Williams/Andrew Smith
3. A.J. Mouch/Jake Geglein/Jake Oester
4. Pat Philhower/Brian Hangbers
5. Matt Heber/Chad Baker
6. Tyler Stovall/Jon Simpson
7. Mike Hertel/Brad Kramer
8. Zach Denton/Chad Albright
Friday, August 6
Games Will be Broadcast on Radio & Internet
When the Gators travel to New Mexico for the Connie Mack World Series, you don't have to miss the game!
Click on the title to get the link for the Live Internet webcast of the games. Remember, when looking at the schedule, that time are local (Mountain Time). Add two hours for the Eastern Time Zone.
Thursday, August 5
Connie Mack World Series Information & Schedule
Upcoming Schedule Go to "My Site News" for the Farmington, New Mexico room pairings. Also, check the Guestbook for messages from Host Families. Tuesday, Aug. 3 * Josh Ritter schedules practice times and fields in New Mexico with Janice at: (505) 566-2260. Three fields (w/lights) and cages are available. * "Medical Releases" completed/updated. Thursday, Aug. 5 * 6:30 pm - Practice at Champions. Friday, Aug. 6 * Travel from Cincy to Indy. To be arranged. * Indy to Houston to Albuquerque: Cont'l Air # N/A. To Houston: 8:15am - 10:38am. To Albuquerque: Noon - 1:12pm. * Bus to Farmington with another team. Players/Coaches only. ~3.5 hrs. * 5:00pm - 9:00pm: Register/Host Family Orientation/Picnic (families invited - no charge) * 9:30pm: Managers' Meeting. Saturday, Aug. 7 * Morning: Parade. * Time TBD: Practice * Early Evening: 5:00pm - HR Derby 6:45pm - Opening Ceremony (Full Uniform, No Spikes!) 7:00pm - Opening Game: Farmington vs. Puerto Rico Jets Sunday, Aug. 8 * Time TBD: Practice * 5:00pm: Game vs. South Troy (N.Y.) Dodgers Monday-Friday * Schedule determined by game results. * If Gators are eliminated, will move team to a hotel as host period ends. Coaches Ritter, Ober and Bender will remain the entire period. Saturday, Aug. 14 * Return to Indy. (Late Arrival Expected.) * Transport back to Cincy (parents) to be arranged. CONTACTS Carol May, WS Co-ordinator: (505) 599-1182; C: 320-5563; cmay@fmtn.org Paula Hill, Rio Grande Travel: (800) 742-3411 Janice, Practice Schedule: (505) 566-2260 Debbie Dusenbery, Visitors Bureau for Coaches' Hotel: (800) 448-1240; (505) 326-7602 OTHER Hotel information will be listed at the top of "Locations". Game Schedule will be listed under "Connie Mack W.S." tab of "Schedule".
Tuesday, August 3
Connie Mack World Series Participants
There are newcomers other than the Gators, as many of the regular participants (e.g., East Cobb and Dallas Mustangs) did not qualify this year. This year, the teams are: Cincinnati Gators South Troy (NY) Dodgers Midland Redskins Florida Bombers Subia (AZ) Lubbock (TX) Hubbers Guaynabo (PR) Jets Farmington Sky Sox (Host)
Tuesday, August 3
From Connie Mack W.S. Hosts to Parents and Friends
Below is a letter sent from the CMWS/Farmington Co-ordinators: Farmington, NM Congratulations on your team qualifying for the Connie Mack World Series! In order to make your visit to Farmington as rewarding for you as possible, we wish to provide you with some information on what to expect in Farmington and some procedures we follow in hosting this prestigious tournament. If at any time you need information on something not covered here or further clarification on something that is, please call (505) 599-1182 to speak with Carol, the World Series Coordinator. Air travel to Farmington can be complicated so it is recommended that if you plan to fly to the tournament that you do so by flying into Albuquerque then renting a car to drive the 180 miles to Farmington. The highway from Albuquerque to Farmington (Hwy 550) is four lane, and the trip generally takes three hours. Your players will be flying into Albuquerque and then will board a bus to make the trip to Farmington. Because we try to put two teams on each bus, there won't be enough room left for family members. If you have questions on air travel, contact Paula Hill at (800) 742-3411. Your players will be staying in the homes of local residents who will be responsible for their care and feeding (and transportation) while the team is participating in the tournament. Many lifelong friendships have been established as a result of one Foster Family program. The first event of the week is the Hamburger Fry. This will be held at the Civic Center, 200 West Arrington, and is open to coaches, players, family members and "foster families". On Saturday, August 7th, at 11:30am there will be a parade through downtown Farmington with your players riding on a float designed and built especially for them. The parade will begin at American Plaza on West Main Street and will proceed east on Main Street to Orchard Street. It will then turn north a block and will turn west on Arrington Street and will pass in front of the Civic Center. At this point, players will be allowed to get off their floats and meet their families, or they may ride back to America Plaza. The best viewing area for the Parade is probably on Main Street between Auburn St. and Orchard St. If you prefer shade, watching the Parade from the south side of the street in the shade of the buildings will be more to your liking. The parade will end at approximately 1:30 pm. On Saturday evening, Angust 7th, at 5:00pm there will be a HR Derby. Two players from each team aid be entered, and the winner will receive a trophy. Opening Ceremonies will begin at approximately 6:45 pm. All teams will be introduced, and the first game rill follow immediately. The next question you probably have is how to get tickets. We have punch pass with ten punches that we sell just to family members.of the players. These pusses cost $30 and may be used for any session. It is recommended that in the beginning, since yon don’t know how lay you’ll be staying in the tournament ‘that families grin on the purchase of one pass. With ten punches, ten people may go into one game “five people to two games, etc. If a couple of families buy one together and unit up, then thy can buy Another one later I the week. OR, you can buy a General Admission ticket each time yon come to the ballpark. The advantage in buying a pass is that you won’t have to wait in line at the ticket broth Each time you want to come to a game. You sing have to walk to the entrance gate and get your pass punched. Passes will be or sale at the Civic Center on Friday, August 6th during registration or at the Ricketts Parks during the series. The ticket booth opens one hour prior to the first game of each session. Tickets will only be sold for that Session. Now that you have gained admittance to the park, you need to know where you may sit. During the game in which your team is playing, we have a special section Set aside for parents and foster families. There is a section on Each side – the home team will be in the third base dugout and the visitor, first base. Home and Visitors are determined by a coin toss. The ticket booth staff will know prior to the game which team will be on which side. So proceed to the proper baseline seating and you may sit in the designated section. After your game is over, you will have to vacate that section so that families of the next game’s team may sit there. If you want to stay for the next game (if there is one) you will have to move to the general admission section on the first base side down toward right field. And, that is where you may sit if you want to come watch a game in which your team is not playing. Please do not sit in any other seating other than that discussed above. All of our reserved seating is sold out, and those ticket holders would appreciate it if they did not have to ask yes to move. On Monday. August 9th at 7:30am, there will be a golf tournament at Pinon Hills Golf Course – rated the best municipal golf course in America by Golf Digest magazine. He format is a four-player best ball; there will be plenty of prizes and lunch will be served. The tournament is open to all parents, coaches, Sponsors, He. If you want to enter the tournament, ask at the ticket booth for an entry form and come enjoy one of the country’s most spectacular golf courses. Throughout the week, the host organization for your team will be planning various activities such as barbeques, Swimming parties, etc. Parents, check with your coaches or some of the foster fair lies so that you may be included in these activities. The weather in Farmington in August can vary. Days are typically warm-highs in the 90s. Nights usually drop down to the mid 50s to low 60s. We generally don’t get any rain all summer until the Connie Mack World Series begins. It would be aged idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat. In 39 years of besting this tournament only three games have had to be called because of rain - they were finished the next morning. Quite often we may have a rain delay for an hour or 30, but we nearly always get the day’s games in. Dress in Farmington is casual. All of our tournament games are broadcast by local radio station - KENN, AM 1390. In addition, for those fans unable to make the trip to Farmington, we will be providing live audio streaming on the Internet at www.kennradio.com We have a local t-*** shop that sells souvenirs – t-shirts, posters, etc.they will have their wares set up at the Civic Center on registration day – Coyest 6th, and will be in the souvenir shop next to the Concession stand at the ball park all week. There is a program that will be Sold at the ball park for $2. There is a photographer who will be taking team photos, also available for purchase. If you want any information on local attractions or surrounding areas, you may contact the Convention and Visitors' Bureau at 1-800-448-1240. They will be happy to send you information on our area. If you want to stop in at the CVB after you get to town, their address is 3041 E. Main, and their local phone number is 505-326-7602. If you have questions throughout the week while you're here, please ask any of the ticket booth staff or the people working in the press box. We want you to have an experience to rmember, so anything we can do to make that happen, you only need ask.
South Troy Dodgers
Article about Chad Brady, South Troy Dodgers' IF/P.
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| Ty Stoval is Lost in the Mob After His Game Winner vs the Rams |
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Gators Rally to Win C Mack Regional - On to Farmington!
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| Don Silver Presents the Regional Trophy |
In the championship game against the Michigan Rams, the Gator rallied with two runs in the sixth to tie the game and pushed across a two out run in the seventh to advance tulle Connie Mack World Series in Farmington, N.Mex. Sean Manninghoff led the Gators charge with fire innings of strong relief and a 4 for 5 day at the plate.
In the bottom of the seventh, Ben Terry reached first on a two out bunt single. Sean followed with a single and Brian Hangbers walked to load the bases. Then Tyler Stovall drove an 0-1 pitch just out of the Rams' shortstop's reach to allow Ben to cross with the tournament winner. Chad Albright pitched a perfect top of the seventh for his second win in relief in as many days.
In the sixth, when the Gators tied the game after trailing since the second: Ben singled, Brian walked, and Tyler singled to load the bases with one out. Then Pat Philhower singled to pull the Gators within one, and the bases remained leaded. Brian tied the game when he scored on a passed ball.
Saturday
The Gators got smashed by PB Baseball 11-0 in the first game today, but came from behind to score 2 with 2 outs in the bottom of the seventh to win 5-4 and advance to the championship game tomorrow at 1:00Â pm against the Michigan Rams. It was the 5th game in twelve days between the two clubs, with PB winning one blowout and the Gators winning four by a total of five runs! In the seventh, down 4-3, Zach Denton hit a one-out single, then Ben Terry bounced to first for the second out moving Denton to second but, just one out away from elimination. However, the "never say die" Gators then got a hit from Sean Munnnyhoff to put the tying run at third. Brian Hangbers walked, and then Tyler Stovall hit a shot down the line that looked the it would score two. But, PB first baseman, Steve Ross, made a great stop and a run scored when the pitcher failed to cover first. Then Ryan "Willie-Style" Williams turned on the first pitch he saw and sent it hard down third. PB's Adam Borgia was able to stop it on the line deep behind the bag, but all were safe and the Gators danced from first base to centerfield with Willie after Sean crossed home plate. PB's Neil Striker pitched two masterful games, shutting out the Gators for the win in the first game, the throwing five more shutout innings to start the second game.
The Gators scored three in the sixth to make the seventh possible. Ben Terry led off with a bunt single and Sean Munninghoff followed with a single to right-centerfield , advancing Ben to third. Brian Harpers hit a sacrifice fly to center, and Sean advanced to second when the throw from center got by the catcher. Tyler Stovall grounded hard to second for the second out, moving Sean to third. Sean then scored on a wild pitch. Pinch hitter, Ryan Williams, walked then scored on Jake Oester's triple down the right field line to make it 4-3, putting the Gators within striking distance. Chad Albright picked up the win in two innings of relief for starter Jake Geglein.
Friday
The Gators beat PB Baseball and the Saginaw East Pointe Stars to move into the championship round of the Nichols Bracket. Pat Philhower delivered a one-out grand slam over the leftfield fence to lift the Gators over PB by a 5-3 margin. Chad Baker held PB to 2 runs in 5 innings and Sean Munninghoff recorded the win in relief. In the second game, the Gators banged out 13 hits, including a bases lorded triple by Ben Terry, to beat the Stars 12-1. Brian Hangers was credited with the win. The Gators play PB Baseball for the Bracket championship. The Gators must win one of two tomorrow against PB to qualify for the championship game on Sunday.
Thursday
The Gators slammed 5 home runs to beat the Central Michigan Stars 13-7. Leading the home run barrage were Zach Denton, who drove in 6 runs with as-ran shot followed by a Grand Slam, and Chad Baker, who hit a 2-run shot in his first at bat for the Gators, and then did it again two at bats later. Brian Hangers added a two run shot in the third. Both Denton and Sean Munning hoff had 3 hits on the day. Matt Heber was credited with the win, pitching 4 innings and allowing 2 runs.
Wednesday
In his first appearance for the Gators, Brad Kramer threw a five hitter to lead the Gators past the West Michigan Elite, 9-1, in 6 innings. Kramer struck out six and walked none. Ben Terry's 3-run double broke the game open in the fourth, giving the Gators a 5-1 lead. Zach Denton contributed a double, single and 2 RBIs.
Friday, July 30
Upcoming Schedule
Saturday's Probable Starters:
vs. PB Baseball, in the Connie Mack Regional - Round 5: TBD, 1:00pm
vs. PB Baseball, if PB beats Gators in Game 1, in the Connie Mack Regional - Round 6: Jake Geglein (7-1, 1.52), 3:15 pm
@ Nichols Park, Battle Creek MI.
Saturday, July 24
Gators Add Four for Connie Mack
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| Chad Baker Joins Gators |
Connie Mack allows the addition of 3 players from the league to a team's State Tournament roster, and another 2 players from the state for the Regional Tournament roster. The Gators have added four players:
Mike Hertel, RHP/IF/OF:
High School: Glen Este, 2004 College: Mt St. Joseph
Brad Kramer, LHP:
High School: Harrison, 2004 College: Indiana
Chad Albright, RHP/3B/C:
High School: Eastwood, 2004 College: Heidelburg
Chad Baker, RHP/1B:
High School: Canfield, 2004 College: Pittsburgh
The Gators welcome you to the team!
Monday, July 26
Connie Mack Regional Format & The Gators' Bracket
Format
The Regional consists of two eight-team brackets. Each bracket plays a double elimination AABC Format (i.e., each team, regardless of whether it has incurred a loss or not plays each round so that there is no disadvantage as to timing of the first loss) until it has a winner. Then the two Bracket Champions play a single game for the championship.
The Nichols Field Bracket
Wednesday - Round 1
Game 1: PB Baseball vs Ontario Blue Jays (Remember them from the Sharks 2002 Tourney?)
Game 2: Eastpoint Stars vs Battle Creek ETI Gators
Game 3: Coon Rapids vs Central Michigan Stars
Game 4: Gators vs West Michigan Elite (went to Farmington in 2002)
Thursday - Round 2: Winners Play Each Other & Losers Play Each Other
Game 5: Game 1 Winner vs Game 2 Winner
Game 6: Game 1 Loser vs Game 2 Loser: Loser Eliminated
Game 7: Game 3 Winner vs Game 4 Winner
Game 8: Game 3 Loser vs Game 4 Loser: Loser Eliminated
Friday - Round 3 (1st Game)
Game 9: Game 5 Winner vs Game 7 Winner
Game 10: Game 5 Loser vs Game 7 Loser: Loser Eliminated
Game 11: Game 6 Winner vs Game 8 Winner: Loser Eliminated
Friday - Round 4 (2nd Game)
Teams Remaining Draw for Pairings:
Teams: Winner and Loser of Game 9, Winner of Games 10 & 11
Losers w/ One Prior Loss are Eliminated
Saturday - Round 5 (1st Game)
2 or 3 Teams Remaining: If 3, Draw for Bye.
Other two teams play.
Saturday - Round 6 (2nd Game, if Needed)
1, 2 or 3 Teams Remaining: If 3, Draw for Bye. Team Receiving Round 5 Bye is not Eligible for the Bye.
If 2, other two teams play.
If 1, Bracket completed. No game needed.
Saturday - Round 7 (3rd Game, if Needed)
1 or 2 Teams Remaining: If 2, winner of Round 7 Game is Bracket Winner.
If 1, Bracket completed. No game needed.
Sunday - Championship Game
The winners of the two brackets play a single game (regardless of losses in bracket play) for the championship.
Friday, July 23
Gators Take Ohio Connie Mack w/ 6-5 Win Over PB Baseball
Friday - Championship Game
The Gators won the Connie Mack State Title with a 6-5 win over PB Baseball from Cleveland. Mike Hertel, making his first mound appearance for the Gators, pitched 5 strong innings, then Sean Munninghoff turned in a sparkling relief appearance to gain the win. Sean took over pitching duties with no outs in the 6th with the score knotted at 5 and runners on 1st and 3rd. After giving up a single to the first batter he faced that put PB back ahead, he struck out the next hitter, got a fielder's choice, then got the lead-off hitter, who had tripled and singled in his previous at bats, on a strike out swinging.
The Gators answered in the bottom half of the inning with two to take the lead for good. Rocky Siegel, in his last game for the Gators (Good Luck on the Gridiron at Tiffin, Rocky!), singled to lead off, but Zach Denton k'd and Ben Terry hit a shallow fly to left. Fortunately for the Gators, the PB leftfielder dropped the ball and all were safe. Sean Muninghoff moved the runners up on a nubber back to the mound, then Brian Hangbers delivered the big blow with a first pitch double down the right field line, scoring Rocky and Ben, easily.
PB's #2 hitter lead off the 7th with a single to left, and it looked like the Gators were going to have a battle. But, Sean took matters in his own hands and struck out the heart of PB's order: 1-2-3. The tournamanet title was the Gators' first this year, after getting close several times.
The last two foes, PB and Boys of Summer, advanced to Battle Creek for the Connie Mack Regional with the Gators. The teams that finished 4th through 8th advanced to the Cincinnati Regional hosted by Midland. Sounds fishy? Coach Ritter swears it was on the up-and-up as Regional Team Placement was drawn from a hat by each manager.
Thursday - Gators Sweep Undefeateds' DH to Advance to Championship
The two remaining undefeated teams, The Boys of Summer and the Cinncinnati Gators, faced off for a twin bill as PB Baseball (one loss) received a bye in Round 7 after their Round 6 win earlier in the day. (The Boys and the Gators had already received byes earlier in the tournament.) The Gators swept the DH with strong hitting and excellent starts from Jon Simpson (Game 1) and AJ Mouch (Game 2). The first game went 8 innings as the Boys of Summer wouldn't give in, tying the game in the 3rd, 6th, and 7th innings. Sean Munninghoff was credited with the win in relief. In the second game, the Gators teed off early with 7 hits and a walk the first time through the order. The Gators collected 16 hits, including a home run by Mike Hertel, in route to a 12-6 win. AJ Mouch (2-2) picked up the win with 5 stong innings.
Wednesday - Gators Earn Berth in Connie Mack Regional
The Gators advanced to the Connie Mack Regional with a 6-0 win over the Ohio Lightning. The Gators scored 5 in the second, then coasted behind Jake Geglein's 2-hitter. Pat Philhower hit a 2-run Home Run and Ben Terry hit a 2-run triple to lead the 2nd inning charge. The Gators' manager, Josh Ritter, pulled "Battle Creek - Ohio Rep #3" from the hat at the Wednesday Night drawing, so the Gators will head to Michigan on Wednesday to fight it out with 15 other teams, including two other strong Ohio clubs: PB Baseball and The Boys of Summer.
Tuesday - Gators Win Two
It took three years, but the Gators finally beat the Cleveland Cage Club Yard Dogs. In the previous two meetings in 2001 and last year, the Gators lost low-scoring games. This year, the Gators pounded out 18 hits, including a 2-run HR by Brian Hanbers, to win 14-8. Behind 7-4 going into the 6th, the Gators roped 8 singles to plate 8 runs in the inning for a 12-7 lead.
In the team's second game of the day, The Gators beat Wharmby's Sports (Youngstown), 6-5. Before the sun set and a heavy haze settled in that reduced the effectiveness of the lighing, it looked like it wold be a sluggers marathon. The Gators first four hitters lead off the game with hits, including triples by Ben Terry and Tyler Stovall, to take a 3-0 lead. But Wharmby's answered with four to take the lead. The game settled down, and the Gators notched single runs in the 3rd, 4th and 5th to take a 6-4 lead into the home half of the 7th. Wharmby's rally in the 7th fell short when Sean Munninghoff releived winning pitcher, Brian Hangbers (7-0), and set down the three batters he faced for the save. The two wins put the Gators one win away from qualifying for a Regional Tournament berth.
Monday - Game Two vs. the Yard Dogs: Postponed, Rain.
Sunday - Gators Win First Game vs Tourney Favorite, PB Baseball.
The Gators beat highley touted, Cleveland-based P B Baseball behind the 4-hit pitching of Andrew Brackman (4 innings) and Jake Geglein (3 innings). The Gators scored in the 1st when Ben Terry led of with a single, advanced to second on Sean Munninghoff's sacrifice, and scored on Tyler Stovall's two out single. The Gators made it 2-0 in the 5th on Terry's single to bring home Ryan Williams who had walked and moved to second on Zach Denton's bunt single. PB rallied in the 7th with two-outs. After a hit just under the glove of first baseman Brian hangbers, and a dropped fly in right field, PB scored their run on a bloop over the head of SS, Jake Oester. But the rally and game ended on an attempted steal of home.
Saturday - Game One vs. PB Baseball: Postponed, Rain.
The Gators played and won Friday in hot, humid and sunny Orlando, Florida, so the rain and cool temperatures, not to mention a day off, were welcome.
Tuesday, July 13
Connie Mack Tourney Date Change = Chaos
The Connie Mack State tournament in Youngstown moved the dates up from what we were told several months ago. The Gators have a game in NW Ohio just 20 hours after the probable last game in Florida. Soooo...... we won't be taking a bus back. Instead we will fly to Cleveland, rent vans and drive to Youngstown (1 1/4 hours). Our 1st game is on Saturday at 9:00am, and we will likely have doubleheaders for as long as we are in the tournly (two losses and out). The tournament may last till Wednesday. More info will be provided as it is received. Sorry about the disruption the change may cause.
Flights:
Ted: SW#401/867 Orl-Balt-Cleve Thurs, 6/15, 6:25p-8:35p/9:45p-l0:50p
Sam: DL#5044 Orl-Ral Thurs, 6/15, 8:55p-10:34p
Players/Coaches in Florida: SW#413 Orl-Bal-Cle Fri, 6/16, 4:00p -8:05p, w/Stop in Baltimore.
Brack: SW #954/413 Orl-Bal-Cleve Fri, 6/16, 2:50p-3:50p/6:55p-8:05p (Sorry about the long wait in Balt., Drew)
Back's Return: SW #425/810 Cleve-Nash-Ral Sun, 6/18, 4:25p-4:55p/5:45p-8:10p (tentative)
Hotel:
Holiday Inn, Youngstown - North Lima, (330) 549-0090
Friday, July 16
Gators Place 7th in AAU Nationals
On Sunday, the Gators advanced to the Championship Pool of the 18/19 AAU Nationals with a 3-0 Qualifier Pool Record. The Gators beat the reigning AAU champs, Tallahassee Baseball Club, knocking them into the Consolation Pool. Saturday, Drew Brackman pitched a two hit gem over the Baton Rouge White Sox to help the Gators win 5-1 and clinch a Championship Pool berth.
On Monday, the Gators squandered a 10-2 lead after two, but bounced back to beat the Oakland (MI) Bulldogs, 14-10 in 8 innings. Sean Munninghoff got the go-ahead RBI and the win in two shut-out innings of relief. Brian Hangbers added a 3-run blast over the right field fence to complete the scoring in the top of the 8th.
Tuesday, the Gators downed the North Corner (Wash. State) Tribe, 5-2. Jake Geglein pitched a 4-hit complete game to lead the Gators. Then the Gators beat tournament favorite, Southwest Florida, 5-4 to advance to bracket play.
In brackets, two Texas teams teams topped the Gators on Thursday. The Houston Miracles won 5-0 in the opener and the Brazos Valley Renegades won 5-4 in Game 2. The Gators bounced back on Friday morning, beating the Middletown (Fla.) Cobras, 13-4. Andrew Smith pitched 5 innings in relief to pick up the win. Smittly allowed just one run.
Oakland (Mich.) and Baton Rouge battled for the chamnpionship, whci Oakland won. The Gators beat both of these teams in pool play. It was a great tournament. The team was placed in very tough pools and won, then lost in brackets against a very good Miracles (Kansas State) pitcher to fall in the ultimate team rankings.
Sunday, June 27
Enquirer Names Gators to All-City
The Cincinnati Enquirer named its All-City Team today, and seven Gators were honored.
First Team Division I:
Drew Brackman: The Moeller ace also earned GCL and All-Ohio MVP honors and was named the Enquirer Player of the Year. Drew will attend NC State to play both basketball and baseball.
Ben Terry: The Anderson CF/Relief Pitcher also earned FAVC Player of the Year honors. Ben will attend Furman.
Honorable Mention Division I:
Tyler Stovall: The Moeller catcher was also named to the 1st Team GCL. Tyler will attend Central Michigan.
Sean Munninghoff: The Anderson Pitcher/IF also earned 1st Team FAVC honors. Sean will attend Cincinnati.
First Team Division II:
Jake Oester: The McNicholas shortstop was also named All-GCL. Jake will be a senior at McNick next year.
Matt Heber: The Batavia P/3B also earned Conference Player of the Year honors. Matt will attend Cincinnati.
Honorable Mention Division II:
Jake Geglein: The McNicholas Pitcher also received All-GCL honors. Jake will attend Cincinnati.
Sunday, June 27
Gators Fall in 9th to Hosts in Sharks Great Midwest Classic
The Gators won all three games in Sharks Midwest Classic Pool Play and advanced to the Semi-Finals against the Cincinnati Sharks. Against the Sharks, the Gators came up short, losing 5-4 in the 9th inning. The Gators hope to get on the winning track in bracket play this weekend in Wheeling, WV, where they play in the Beast of the East Tournament.
Sunday, June 20
Gators Fall to Spikes in Ohio Valley Semis
Sunday, June 20th The Gators hit the ball hard, but right at the Spikes who played flawless defense and hit the ball hard themselves. The final score, 4-1, as the Gators' threatened in the 7th, but cold only muster a single run. Jay Smith provided the big blow for the Spikes, a solo blast in the 4th to make it 2-0. Saturday, June 19th The Gators advanced to the Ohio Valley Semi-finals against the Cincinnati Spikes (4-1) with an 8-0 win over the Midland Indians. In earlier games, both the one-loss Canadian Gold T-Birds and the Indianapolis Bulls 17/18s lost to opponants with one tournament win between them (well, that's why they play the games!). Needing a win to clinch the division, and ace Andrew Brackman on the mound, the Gators took control with 2 runs in the first, but were not able to break it open unitl the 7th with 5 insurance runs. Brackman cruised with 10 strikeouts and allowed just 3 hits for the complete game shutout. Friday Evening, June 18th Despite losing to the Canadian Gold T-Birds, 7-6, the Gators are still in the hunt for a divisional victory and advancement to the semi-finals. After losing in the first game of the day, the Gators skunked the Pittsburgh Tigers, 11-0 in five innings, behind a no-hitter by Ian Carter. Carter faced the minimum 15 hitters, walking one Tiger who was erased on a double play. Denton led the offensive charge with a Grand Slam Home Run in the 5th to push the Gators above the eight-run rule margin. The pool play situation is this: Four teams have one loss going into the final day: the Gators (3-1), the Indians Bulls-17/18 (3-1), the Midland Indians (2-1, and the Canadian Gold T-Birds (2-1). The Bulls play the Breakers (0-4), the Gators play the Indians, then the Indians play the T-Birds after the T-Birds play the Tigers (1-3). In the event of a two way tie, the head-to-head result will be the tie-breaker. For the Gators to advance: The must win against Midland, AND: Assuming the Bulls beat the Breakers and the T-Birds win both games resulting in a 3-way tie, the Gators advance if they beat the Indians by at least 2 runs fewer than the Bulls beat the Breakers. So, if the Breakers win by 8 or more (8 is the most margin credited per game), the Gators must win by 6. If the Bulls win, but the T-Birds lose to either the Tigers or the Indians, and the Gators beat the Indians, then the Gators advance regardless of the scores. There are other scenarios, but they are remote. The worst Gator scenario is for the Bulls to lose to the Breakers. Then, only a T-Bird loss would allow the Gators to advance. Standings Team W-L Margin Loss to: Upcoming Games: Gators 3-1 +15 T-Birds Indians Bulls 3-1 +13 Gators Breakers Indians 2-1 + 6 Bulls Gators, T-Birds T-Birds 2-1 - 1 Bulls Indians, Tigers Tigers 1-3 N/A Breakers 0-4 N/A
Wednesday, June 9
Congrats to Moeller, Stovall, and Brack on Winning State
Gators Drew Bracman and Tyler Stovall helped lead Moeller to the Division I State Championship, beating Mentor, 6-2. Brackman pitched a 2-hitter in the semi-finals for the 6-1 win over St. Ignatius and then came back for a save two days later. Tyler hit a two-run home run to spark the Moeller six-run 2nd.
Monday, June 7
Gators Retire Coach Feldkamp's Number #10
The Gators held ceremony on Monday, June 7th, after their 8:00pm game to retire former manager, Coach Joe Feldkamp's, number 10. The ceremony was at Anderson High School's field after the Gators' 21-0 win over the Cincinnati Tigers. Coach Feldkamp coached the Gators from 1993 to 2003 and compiled a 290-117 record. Known as the Midland Indians until the 2001 season, the team won two Knothole City Championships (Class C and Class D while playing up an age level), Southwest Ohio League (AABC) Championships, an Ohio AAU Championship and has placed well in the CABA, Hap Dumont and AAU World Series. Coach Joe stepped down as the only manager the team had ever known in order to spend the summer with his family. Eight of Coach Feldkamp's 2003 Gators will continue playing ball at the college Division I level next year. Thanks, Coach!
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Sunday, May 30
Gators' Moeller Battery Named to GCL-South First Team
Tyler Stovall and Drew Brackman, Moeller's catcher and ace pitcher, were named to the GCL-South First Team All-League team. Brackman (6-0, 0.36 ERA, 70 K's in 49 IP), Stovall (.310, 1 HR, 15 RBI and stellar defense) and the rest of the Crusaders, head to Canton on Thursday to play St. Ignatius in the Division I Semi-Finals. Stovall will play for Central Michigan next year, and the 6'11" Brackman is headed to NC State to play both basketball and baseball. Former Gator, Mark Olexa, was also awarded First Team honors.
Good luck to the Crusaders who were ranked 2nd in both the final City and State Polls and were GCL Co-Champions!
Sunday, May 30
Gators Place Three on FAVC All-Conference List
Sean Munninghoff, Ben Terry and Andrew Smith from the Anderson Redskins were honored with All-Conference honors. Munninghoff and Terry each made First Team, and each received All-Conference honors for the third straight year. Munninghoff (5-0, 3.09 ERA, 31 K's, .368 Avg., 19 RBI), who will pitch for U.C. next year, was named "Pitcher of the Year". The Conference "Player of the Year" was Centerfielder Ben Terry (.500, 1 HR, 24 RBI, 27 SB, 2-1, 3 Svs., 2.13 ERA, 21 K's in 23 IP), who will play for Furman (Greenville SC) in 2005. Smith (.333, 1 HR, 20 RBI), a junior, will return to the 'Skins next year at 3B and OF. Former Gator, Alex Lewis, was also named to the First Team as Anderson's first baseman. The Redskins were FAVC Champions and were 3rd in the final City Poll and 10th in the final State Poll. Congratulations!
Sunday, May 30
Batavia's Heber Named SBC Player of the Year
Matt Heber of the Batavia Bulldogs ws named Southern Buckeye Conference "Player of the Year". Heber (4-2, 1.96 ERA, 85 K's in 50 IP, .360 Batting Avg.) pitched and played 3B for Batavia. It is the third straight year that Matt has been named to First Team All-Conference.
Congratulations, Matt!
Sunday, May 30
Two Gators Earn GCL-North All League
The Gators' Jakes (Oester and Geglein) earned All-League honors playing for McNicholas High School. Oester (.385, 3 HR, 30 RBI), a Junior who has started at Shortstop since his freshman year, was named to the First Team. Geglein (6-1, 1.19 ERA, 48 K's in 35 IP), a senior who will pitch for the Cincinnati Bearcats next year, was named to the Second Team. The Jakes helped lead the Rockets to the league title, and a runner-up Division II Regional in State Playoffs. Congratulations!
Saturday, May 15
Gators in the News: Drew Brackman
Article about Drew Brackman and the Moeller Crsaders beating Kings in Moeller's second game of the playoffs.
Note: Because of the vast number of articles written about Drew, not all are linked. Check out the Cincinnati Enquirer site (cincinnati.com) for articles about Drew's 2-sport dominance!
Thursday, May 13
Gators in the News: Sean Munninghoff
Cincinnati Enquirer story about Sean Munninghoff versus Milford in first AHS Redskins playoff game.
Tuesday, May 4
Gators' Heber Tosses Perfect Game for Batavia High
from Cincinnati Enquirer, Tue., May 4, 2004 (p. B2)
Mat Heber pitched a perfect game in Batavia's 8-0 win over Clinton Massie. The senior struck out 14 batters in a row, including every batter he faced in the third, fourth, fifth and sixth innings. Heber (4-1) finsihed with 17 strikeouts.
Monday, May 3
Three Rejoin Team
The Gators have signed three former team members for their final 2004 season. Steve Schroeder, currently a pitcher and third baseman for the Anderson Redskins, was with the team in the Midland Indians days. Steve and long-time Gator, Sean Munninghoff, have anchored the Redskins varsity starting staff this season. Pat Philhower, is currently playing for Milford High School. He played for the Midland Seminoles before they merged with the Midland Indians in 1999. He played for the Indians in 1999 and 2000, and with the Gators, after sitting out a year, in 2002. Pat will play 3rd, 1st and DH. Joey Bryant, Glen Este's starting varsity centerfielder for the past three years, played with the Gators during the 2002 season, and in the 2001 CABA Tournament. Joey will contribute to the Gators on a limited basis when needed, but will focus on getting ready for the upcoming college football season. Joey received a scholarship from Wofford College (#2 NCAA Div. I-AA), located in Spartanburg, SC.
Wednesday, April 28
Gators in the News: Ben Terry & Sean Munninghoff
Current Gators, Ben Terry and Sean Munninghoff, and former Gator, Alex Lewis, played leading roles in Anderson High's key conference win over Glen Este. The trio are the Redskins' captains this year.
Click on the title to link to the article.
Saturday, April 10
Two Gators to Play in East-West All-Star Footbal Game
Zach Denton (McNick QB) and Rocky Siegel (Glen Este LB) have been selected to play in the Hacks East West High School Football All Star Game on Thursday, June 10th. Bot plan to play football in college: Rocky at Tiffin College, and Zach at Eastern Kentucky University. Good luck Rocky and Zach. The Gators are off that day and will be out to cheer you on!
Saturday, April 10
Matt Heber Commits to Bearcats
Matt Heber committed to the University of Cincinnati, joining Gators Jake Geglein and Sean Munninghoff. Heber is a standout pitcher (and hitter) for Batavia High School. We expect nothing but Gators starting for the Bearcats on weekends within a year or two! Congratulations, Matt.
Thursday, March 4
Zach Denton Commits to Eastern Kentucky
Zach Denton, McNicholas QB standout, committed to EKU to play football. Denton, Ohio Div. II Offensive MVP at QB, is expected to return to Wide Receiver at EKU. Denton received regional honors as a WR his sophomore year, before switching to QB for his junior and senior years.
Sunday, January 18
Gators Announce Josh Ritter as Head Coach
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| Purcell's Coach Ritter will Lead Gators |
Coach Ritter is the Assistant Coach at his alma mater, Purcell Marian High School, the 2003 Division II State Champions. He graduated from Purcell in 1998 and from Wilmington College in 2002. He earned three varsity letters at Purcell and started all four years at Wilmington as an outfielder and #1/#2 hitter.
Coach Ritter expressed his enthusiasm about the opportunity to coach a well-stablished team like the Gators and to coach with the Munninghoffs and Coach Carter. He looks forward to meeting the players and parents when we get together (soon) to complete paperwork and fit uniforms.
Saturday, February 14
Rocky Siegel Signs with Tiffin University
Rocky Siegel became the first of the Gators to sign a letter of intent to play football. Rocky is an All-Ohio Linebacker from Glen Este High School. He has not decided if he will try to double up and play baseball, too.
Saturday, January 24
Gators in the News: Pitchers
Collegiat Baseball, Jan. 23, 2004
Andrew Brackman was named to the 2004 Louisville Slugger Pre-Season High School All-Star Team (National). pages 16-17
Pitchers Drew Brackman, Brian Hangbers, Jake Geglien, and Sean Munninghoff were named in the list of "The Nation's Elite". p. 22
Congratulations, boys.
Saturday, November 1
Coach Feldkamp Announces Resignation
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| Coach Feldkamp: Thanks! |
Beast of the East Brackets Set
The Beast of the East (4th of July) Tournament Brackets are set. In our bracket are: Springdale Players, Mississauga Majors, NW Ohio Diamondcats, Maynard (OH) Legion, So. Jersey Athletics, and the NY Giants. We'll Play two games each day on July 1st, 2nd and 3rd, and then 1 to 3 games on Sunday the Fourth. Reminder to players who will not be in College next year or have not yet signed: there is a Showcase on June 30th that you should attend. Plan on travelling to Beckley with a parent ahead of the team. (If we play on Wednesday in Cincy, we'll play short.)
Sunday, January 11
Three New Gators for 2004 Season
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| Louisville Bound Brian Hangbers at AAU Nationals |
Brian, in his first stint with the Gators, led the team in batting average for the tournament (over .500!) and pitched a shut-out win to clinch a championship bracekt berth. Brian is a left-handed pitcher, DH and 1st Basemean.
Also joining the team are Jake Geglein (McNicholas '04/Univ. of Cincinnati), Ryan Doran (Purcell Marion '05), and Andrew Smith (Anderson '05). Jake is a right-handed pitcher who is headed for the Bearcats squad with Sean Munninghoff after graduation. Ryan is a middle infielder for Purcell. Ryan's dad is former Astro and Red second baseman, Billy Doran. Ryan joins Jake Oester and Sean Munninghoff as sons of former big-leaguers. Andrew started in left field for Anderson High School last year, hitting .338 with one HR and 17 RBIs in his first varsity campaign.
Please welcome Ryan, Jake and Andrew to the club. We look forward to their joining us and to Brian's becoming a full-year member of the team.
Thursday, January 8
Gators' Brackman Continues to Get Ink
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Tuesday, January 13
Drew Gets e-Ink, Too
Think NC State isn't interested in its double sport recruit? Click on the link. Surf around a bit to find the articles (four in a row) written in late-Oct/early-Nov.
Tuesday, January 13
Hangbers Sets School Scoring Record
Brain Hangbers was named a Top (Basketball) Performer this past week for the 41 point effort against Lemon-Monroe. Leading Edgewood to a 79-66 win, Brian set a school record that had stood for 16 years.
Saturday, November 13
Three Gators Earn Southwest Ohio District Honors
Zach Denton, McNicholas QB and Gator RF/3B, was named the First Team QB and named Offensive Player of the Year for Division II - Southwest Ohio District. Rocky Siegel, Glen este LB and Gator C/DH/OF, was named First Team Linebacker. Matt Heber, Batavia QB and Gator RHP, was name Division IV - Special Mention QB. Also of note, former teammates Kevin Wilson (McNicholas) and Joey Bryant (Glen Este) also received honors. Congratulations.
Friday, December 19
Three Gators Earn All-City Gridiron Honors
Zach Denton (McNicholas QB) was named first team Division II All-City QB. Denton who transitioned to QB from an All-Region receiver as a sophomore, also was named Division II All State Player of the Year.
All-State Linbacker, Rocky Siegel (Glen Este) was also named to the Division II first team. Matt Heber (Batavia) was an Honorable Mention QB All City selection.
Wednesday, November 19
Seven Gators Go D-I During Early Signing Period
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| Ben Terry is Headed South to Furman |
Drew Brackman, North Carolina State Wolfpack (Basketball and Baseball) - ACC
Ian Carter, Wright State University Raiders - Horizon League
Brian Hangbers, University of Louisville Cardinals - Conf USA
Jake Geglein, University of Cincinnati Bearcats - Conf USA
Sean Munninghoff, University of Cincinnati Bearcats - Conf USA
Tyler Stovall, Central Michigan Universtiy Chippewas - MAC
Ben Terry, Furman University Paladins - SoCon
For Links to the schools baseball sites, go to the Gators' Links or click on the title.
Saturday, November 15
Louisville Signs Brian Hangbers
The Dayton Journal-News article about Brian's signing. Brian, late of the Walt Sweeney Cardinals and soon of the Louisville Cardinals, will don scales this summer to play with the Gators. Brian played (and led the team in hitting and tossed a shutout) with the Gators in the AAU Nationals last year.
Friday, December 5
Furman Announces Signees
The Gators' Ben Terry (Anderson) and the Midland Indians' Ben Hunter (Moeller) were among Furman signees.
Saturday, November 13
Central Michigan Announces Early Commitments
Tyler Stovall and others commit to Central Michigan. Click on the Link for the CMU Press release.
Saturday, November 15
U.C. Announces Four Early Signees
The Bearcats announce the signing of Jak Geglein who will join the Gators this summer. Congrats, Jake!
Sunday, November 30
U.C. Signs Sean Munninghoff
Link to Cincinnati Bearcats release about Sean's early signing.
Friday, July 25
Gators Finish 6th in AAU Nationals
In the last game of the season it looked like classic Gator baseball for four and a half innings. The Gators stretched singles into doubles, successfully double suicide squeezed, and played flawless defense. But with two and a half innings to go, the wheels fell off the wagon, and the Gators had their worst half inning of the season. Three errors, two walks, two balks a few hits and six runs later, a "safe" 5-2 lead against the Knoxville Stars had vanished. The loss placed the Gators sixth in the AAU Nationals.
Despite "The Inning", the tournament was a good one for the Gators. Starting pitching was excellent, and the Gators outscored their opponents 60 to 21 (55 to 12 before the last game) with six wins and three losses.
Thursday, July 24
Gators Play for 5th Place in AAU Nationals Tomorrow
The Gators dropped their first Championship Bracket Game to the South Carolina Spirit by a 2-0 margin. Later in the day, the boys rallied to overcome a 3-0 first inning deficit against SWOH League rivals, the Cincinnati Sharks, to win 5-3. The split puts the Gators in the 5th/6th Place Game tomorrow versus the Knoxville Stars.
Wednesday, July 23
Gators Advance to Championship Brackets
The Gators advanced to AAU National Championship bracket play behind the 1-hit pitching of Brian Hangbers and a 10-hit attack led by Tyler Stovall (3-3) and Alex Lewis (2-2, 3B and BB). The Gators play the tournament favorite, South Carolina Spirit, tomorrow at 10:30am at Disney A. Drew Brackman will be on the mound for the Gators. The Gators play a second game at 3:30pm.
Tuesday, July 22
Gators Regroup, Demote Generals 13-3
The Gators regrouped from their 2-1 loss yesterday to beat the Potomac Generals 13-3 in five innings. Alex Lewis was the winning pitcher, and Ian Carter and Rocky Siegel hit home runs to lead the Gators. Eric Spille sparked the 7-run 4th with 2 singles and 2 RBIs in the inning.
Monday, July 21
Land Sharks Put Gators' Backs to Wall
The Michiana Land Sharks edged the Gators 2-1 in the first round of AAU Nationals Championship Pool Play. The Gators will need to sweep the remaining two pool games to advance to Championship Bracket Play. Sean Munninghoff and Eric Spille pitched well enough to win, but the Land Sharks' crafty lefty, coupled with good glove work, shut out the Gators till the seventh.
Sunday, July 20
Gators Win AAU Pool, 11-0 Over Texas Blaze
The Gators earned a first seed in the second round of pool play at the AAU 17:U Nationals by beating the Texas Blze 11-0 in 6 innings. Gator pitching contined to dominate. Ian Carter, the Gator starter, went 4 innings, striking out 9 and allowing just 2 hits.
The starting pitchers' line in the first 3 games is:
3 Games, 14 IP, 0 Runs, 7 Hits, 30 Ks, 0 Walks/HbP, 0.00 ERA.
The Gators face the loser of the Cincinnati Sharks vs Michiana Land Sharks tomorrow at 10:30am in the Disney Crackerjack Stadium.
Saturday, July 19
Gators Start AAU with Two Wins on Saturday
Gator starting pitchers Matt Heber and Drew Brackman dominated their games as the Gators beat the Tennessee Fury, 10-0, and the Delaware Tigers, 8-2.
Heber struck out 10, allowed 4 hits and no walks for the 5-inning (run rule) complete game victory over the Fury. In the second game, Drew Brackman allowed just one hit over 5 innings before leaving with a 4-0 lead. Brackman dominated the Tigers, stricking out 11 and allowing only one base runner, an infield hit. That runner was wiped out on a double play.
Hitting leaders during the two games inclued: Brian Hangbers (4-6, 2 RBI), Ben Terry (3-8, 2 3B, 3 RBI), Tyler Stovall (2-6, HR, 3 RBI), Jake Oester (2-6, 2B, 2 RBI), Ian Carter (2-6) and Zach Denton (1-3, 3 Walks and 3 RBI).
Stovall's HR was a monster blast to left to break a 0-0 tie against the Tigers. Congratulations to Brian Hangbers, who collected two hits in each of his first to games for the Gators.
The Gators play a single game tomorrow at 10:30am against the Texas Blaze for first place in "Pool A".
Wednesday, July 16
AAU Schedule has Been Posted
The Schedule for the first round of Pool play has been posted. Our first game is at 8:00am on Saturday, second at 1:00pm, Satuday, and our third is on Sunday at 10:30am.
Click on the title above to link to the AAU Tournament site.
Our schedule on this site has also been updated and the Heritage site has been added to "Locations".
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| Sam Celebrates 10! |
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Gators Most Senior & Junior Members Celebrate Birthdays
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| Coach Gramps Turns ???? | |
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The Gators wish Sam and Ron many more!
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| John Olexa and Gramps Take a Birthday Drink |
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Monday, July 7
Gators Go 4-2 in Big 4th Tourney in Knoxville
The Gators stumbled out of the blocks, falling to the Palmeto (S.C.) Braves, 5-4, but improved their play to finish 4-2 for the tournament. By far, the best game played was the last one, as Eric Spille pitched a 5-inning one-hitter against the Huntsville (AL) Bulldogs for an 8-0 win. The Gators banged out 13 solid hits to win in a walk despite hitting hard line drives that resulted in double plays to kill rallies in both the first and second innings.
Sunday, June 29
Gators Lose in Sharks Classic Championship: Yard Dogs Rally
The Cleveland Cage Club Yard Dogs staged a two-out rally to score four in the bottom of the sixth to win the Sharks Great Midwest Classic Championship game over the Gators, 5-2. Tyler Stovall drove in Ben Terry in the 5th with a triple to right center to give the Gators a 2-1 lead. But, with 2 out in the Yard Dogs 6th, a grounder off of pitcher, Ian Carter's, foot resulted in a close play at 1st. The throw was in time for the out, but the umpire's missed call seemed inconsequential at the time. A walk and single later left the game tied at 2-2 and sent Sean Munninghoff to the mound after a fine outing by Carter. Munninghoff's first pitch was hit softly down the RF line to score one, and after a throwing error to second base after the relay, resulted in both the other baseruner and the hitter scoring. The game was marred by several Gator mistakes in the field and on the bases, but all-in-all, the tournament effort was great.
The Gators advanced to the championship with a 4-0 record in pool play. The Gators beat the second place Columbus Cobras, 4-3 in 8 innings, Saturday morning. Matt Heber went the distance for the Gators. Heber would have won in regulation, but a fly to deep centerfield that would normally have been caught went for a triple when the Gator CF, Ben Terry, ran into a light pole chasing down a fly ball. (The field is designed for Freshman play.) The triple resulted in two runs that would have othersie been avoided, and gave the Cobras a 2-1 lead. The Cobras extended their lead in the 6th, but the Gators answered with one of their own in the bottom of the inning when Tyler Stovall smashed a home run over the left field fence. Mark Olexa tied it in the bottom of the 7th on a one-out single by Rocky Siegel. In the 8th, Heber pitched his way out of a 1st and 3rd jam with one out. Then the Gators' Sean Munninghoff scored on a no-out, bases loaded grounder to short by Ian Carter to win the game.
Wednesday, June 25
Enquirer Names Four Gators to All-City
The Cincinnati Enquirer named four Gators to the All-City Division I Honorable Mention Team. Two GCL pitchers, left hander, Ian Carter from Elder, and RHP Drew Brackman from Moeller were honored. Anderson High School placed two position players: Ben Terry (CF) and Sean Munninghoff (SS), both of whom play for Shea Wardwell's Redskins . Munninghoff, the Gators' second baseman, also pitches for Anderson and the Gators. Congratulations!
Thursday, June 26
Spikes Game Halted in the 4th
The Spikes game was called in the bottom of the 4th, with hte Spikes leading 4-1. After three and a half, the score was tied 1-1, but as the moud and field got wetter, Gatorball got sloppier. After Jon Simpson lost control as the mound got muddy, he walked five in the fourth. With the help of two bunts in the bottom of the fifth, the Spikes had scored 3 times when the umpires had seen enough and halted the game.
The Spikes had scored in the first on Evan Armitage's home run, and the Gators countered with a single by Rocy Siegel, two bunt safeties and then scoring on a no-out double play.
Sunday, June 22
Gators Win Ohio Valley Division, Fall to Redskins in Semis
The Gators went 4-0 in Divisional Play in the Ohio Valley Tournament to advance to championship play. The Midland Indians, Illinois Athletics and the Ohio Yankees finsihed at 2-2 tied for second in the pool.
Matt Heber pitched a gem against the Midland Indians in a 1-0 win on Saturday that put the Gators at 3-0 (with potentially 2 games to play) against all other teams' two losses. Pitching was the Gators' strong suit in the tournament. Ian Carter beat the previously unbeaten Yankees, 8-0 in 5 innings, with a one-hitter. Drew Brackman, making his first start in over two weeks, teamed with Jake Oester and Jon Simpson to beat Ontario Phoenix, 9-3. After the win against the Indians on Saturday, Eric Spille pitched a complete game, 3-1 win over the Illinois Athletics, losing the shut-out in the seventh. With the Division Championship clinched by the Gators, US Athletic chose not to play, graciously not forcing a triple header on the Gators.
In the semi-final game, the Gators took a 1-0 lead against Midland Redskins in the 2nd, but lost the lead when the Skins countered with 2 in the top of the third. The Gators played respectably until the seventh, when the Redskins scored five with the help of three Gator errors. The Gators scored in the bottom of the seventh but it was too little, too late in the 11-3 loss.
Sunday, June 15
SWOH Tourney Continues with A Soggy Gator Win and A Rainout
Again, on Sunday, only one of two schedule games was played, and again the Gators won. They beat the Eastside Eagles 15-2 in a game called afer six and a half because of a steady rain and a muddy field. The game with Middie Magic was postponed - - until the field dries out. THe Gators are now 3-0, but have yet to play Middie Magic (2-1) and the Fairfield Indians (2-1). On Friday, the Gators beat the Fairfiled Chiefs 3-2 in 11 innings, and one game Saturday, beat the Panel Barn Lumber Kings 22-2 in 5 innings. We will play two games on Sunday, making up the first Friday game at 12:30pm, and playing the scheduled game at 3:00pm. The two remaining games will likely be made up Monday or Tuesday, weather permitting.
Sunday, June 1
Seven Gators Earn H.S. All-Conference Honors
Congratulations to the seven Gators who garnered All Conference honors in the high school campaign. They are:
Ian Carter - LHP for Elder, 1st Team - Greater Catholic League
Drew Brackman - RHP for Moeller, 1st Team - Greater Catholic League
Mark Olexa - SS for Moeller, 2nd Team - Greater Catholic League
Tyler Stovall - LF for Moeller, 2nd Team - Greater Catholic League
Ben Terry - CF for Anderson, 1st Team - Ft Ancient Valley Conference
Sean Munninghoff - SS for Anderson, 2nd Team - Ft Ancient Valley Conference
Matt Heber - RHP/IF for Batavia, 1st Team - Southern Buckeye Conference
Monday, March 31
Gator Dugout Manager Shines in KBA Championship
Aaron "A-Train" Munninghoff, the Gator's spirited bench manager, earned the game ball in the White Sharks KBA (8th Grade) championship win. "A-Train" was unavailable for comment at the Moeller - Anderson game becasue the weather was to cold for the Train to leave the Playstation.
Saturday, March 22
Gators Salute Moeller Hoopsters
The Archbishop Moeller High School Crusaders captured the Division I State championship. Gators pitcher, Drew Brackman, and catcher, Tyler Stovall, are members of the Moeller team.
Sunday, December 22
Gators' Players Also Shine on the Gridiron
Gators Zach Denton and Rocky Siegel both were named to the Honorable Mention All-City Division II squad by the Cincinnati Enquirer. Zach converted from Wide Receiver to Quarterback for the McNicholas Rockets, and Rocky led Glen Este High School's defensive squad from his Linebacker position. Also makeing Honorable Mention All-City was former Gator, Joey Bryant, Quarterback for Glen Este.
Sunday, September 22
Ron Oester Returns to Say Goodbye to Riverfront
Jake Oester's Dad, Ron, participated in Riverfront Farewell Ceremonies. Check out a couple of photos by going to "Photos", then the last album, "Gator Dads", or click the title to the news item.
Tuesday, August 20
CABA W.S. Photos Available Online
Check out the CABA World Series Photos online. They are available for purchase - naturally. Click on the title to go to the CABA W.S. page in the website of Southern Sports Photos. FYI: www.idiphoto.com
Sunday, August 4
Two Gators Shine for Sharks in AAU World Series
Update from Cub Reporter: Phil Stovall
Tyler Stovall and Alex Lewis extended their seasons as guest players for the Cincinnati Sharks in the AAU World Series in Knoxville, TN.
Yesterday, in the opener of Championship Pool Play, Alex pitched a complete game in the Sharks' 10-2 win over the Austin (TX) Slam Braves. (We're sure he appreciated getting ten runs instead of the one the Gators provided in his last start at the Hap Dumont World Series.)
Tyler hit a home run in the opener of Pool Play against the Palmetto (S.C.) Bulldogs. The Sharks lost to the Bulldogs 9-7, but went on to win their next two to advance to Championship Pool Play. The Sharks were 1-2 in the Championship Pool.
Monday, July 22
Post Season Trip Notes
CABA W.S.
The Pool Play game schedule is posted on the CABA website. Go to "Links" for a direct link to the CABA website. We play two games on Saturday, one on Sunday and one on Tuesday. Bracket play starts on Wednesday. The bracket format is double elimination. We will play two on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, or at least hope to. Championships will be held on Saturday and Sunday (two days later than what was COmmunicated before the Friday night managers' meeting!).
Our Georgia hotel is the Hawthorn Suites. Go to "Locations" for the address and a link to the property's web site.
Hap Dumont W.S.
Reservations have been confirmed at the Holiday Inn Select - Vanderbilt, in downtown Nashville. The main field for the tournament is Vanderbilt University. Go to "Locations" for the address and a link to the property's web site. If making reservations, ask for Brandon in Group Sales
and request the Hap Dumont World Series rate of ~$75.00.
Hap has changed the schedule. They will not start with bracket play as they have in the past. There will be a three game pool (only to determine seeding for bracket play, not to eliminate teams) starting on Friday. We were told by Hap officials that we would be allowed to forfeit pool games if still playing in CABA, but the Future Stars were told otherwise. We and the Future Stars will try to get this clarified by Tuesday.
Gators Win First Two in Sharks' Classic
The Gators proved that there win over the Columbus Cobras last week in the AAU Championship was not a fluke as they jumped to an early lead and coasted to an 8-1 win. Drew Brackman pitched a strong game, and every Gator in the line-up collected at least one hit.
In the second game, the Gators were trailing the Northfield (MI) Bandits 4-2 going into the seventh. Mark Olexa lit the fuse of the Gator comback and Ian Carter provided the bomb. Olexa hit a shot over the left-centerfield fence, but the umpires incorrectly rule that it went over on the bounce (as confirmed by the Cincy Shark coaches who were standing at the fence). It probably turned out to be for the best. Worried about Olexa on the bases, the Bandit pitcher walked Spille. Then Ian Carter hit a 1-2 pitch deep over the left field fence (there wasn't any doubt about this one) to recapture the lead, 5-4. Sean Munninghoff, who had pitched the first five innings (just 2 runs allowed), then came back to pitch the seventh and mowed down the top of the line-up for the victory.
All other "Pool B" Teams have a loss. The Cobras are 1-1, beating the Ontario Blue Jays 10-7 in 10 innings. The Bandits are 0-1, and Blue jays are 0-1. The Blue Jays are leading the Ft Wayne Braves by 3 after five innings in a suspended game.
Saturday, June 29
Gators Advance to Finals
The Gators advanced to the finals in the Sharks Midwest Classic beating the Ontario Blue Jays, 1-0.
In a second game, the Sharks outslugged the Gators, 15-11.
The Championship Game will be Sunday at 3:00pm at Cincinnati Country Day.
Sunday, June 16
Gators Absorb 2nd Tourney Loss
The Gators' chances for a tournament win were virtually eliminated when the lost to the Red Sox 4-2. The Gators banged out 11 hits, but couldn't get the breaks to bring runs across the plate.
The Gators then played spoiler against the Sharks, beating them 3-2 in the completion of a game begun last Thursday. Alex Lewis pitched masterfully. The Sharks tied the game in the top of the seventh, but with two outs in the bottom half of the inning, the Shark's rightfielder threw the ball over the fence trying to nail Joseph Feldkamp. Feldkamp was running on the pitch and was advancing to third on Mark Olexa's hit through the vacated second base hole.
A loss by the Future Stars (currently 3-1) to the Red Sox (currently 2-2) will create a four-way tie for first with the Sharks (finished at 3-2) and the winner of today's Kentucky Colonels vs Gators game.
The tournament outcome would be determined either by tie-breakers or a playoff. (The tournament director has requested a ruling.)
Saturday, June 15
Gators Rebound Against Millville
The Gators rebounded in a big way with a 13-0, 4-inning victory over the Millville Lightning. Jon Simpson pitched a complete game 1-hitter for the Gators.
In the third the Gators blew away the Lightning when the first nine batters reached base and scored. See the game summary for game details (link below).
On Sunday, the Gators play at 9:30am and 5:00pm and then finish a suspended game (after two and a half) at 7:30pm.
Friday, June 14
Gators Get Off to Shaky Multi-Sanction Tourney Start
Yesterday, it was the weather. Today it was errors and unfortunate timing. The Gators games with the Kentcky Colonels and the Cincinnati Sharks were washed out by a localized, but heavy rain storm. The Gators are knotted with the Sharks, 1-1. Tyler Stovall is on 3rd in the bottom of the third inning with no outs and Joey Bryant at the plate with a 1-1 count. The Sharks game will be completed Sunday at 9:30am, and the Colonels game will be finished at 7:30pm. With the scheduled game against the Red Sox the Gators have a rare (and unfortunate) double header and a half. Happy Father's Day!!!
Today, the Future Stars bounced back after losing to the Colonels 2-1 earlier in the morning, to beat the Gators 5-3. The Gators made four errors that contributed to three runs. Two Gators were caught stealing only to be followed by a Home Run the first time and the second time, by a double. The double, by Joey Bryant, would have been a Home Run had it been hit a foot to the right (the quirks of Fenway). The Gators are 0-1 in the tournament and now must win out. The Sharks survived a scare from Millville to go 1-0, and the Kentucky Colonels are also 1-0.
Sunday, June 9
Gators Move on to Hap Dumont Bracket Play
The Gators won their first two games of pool play against the Dayton Classics (on Ian Carter's 1-hitter) and the Eastside Bad Boys (3rd win against the Boys in 3 weeks) to virtually clinch first place in pool play. After losing 9-4 to the Red Sox in the 2nd Saturday game, the Red Sox, Classics and Gators were each 2-1 in the pool and 1-1 against each other. The Gators placed first by allowing the fewest runs, and the Classics placed 2nd by beating the Red Sox. The Gators face the MSA Sharks on Sunday morning at 10:00am at the Future Stars to begin bracket play.
Sunday, June 9
Gators Win First Two in Hap Bracket Play
The Gators won two games on Sunday to gain advantage in the Hap Dumont Bracket Play. Teh gators qualified for championship bracket play yesterday (see below).
Alex Lewis and Drew Brackman pitched back-to-back gems to lead the Gators. Lewis struckout 11 to beat the Sharks 8-1, then Brackman outpitched Dallas Meyers of the Future Stars in a 3-1 contest.
The Gators face the winner of the MSA Sharks and Future Stars game which is scheduled for 3:00pm tomorrow. The Gators' play at 6:00pm tomorrow. If the Gators win tomorrow, they will win the tournament. If they lose, they will play again on Tuesday to determine the tournament championship.
Sunday, June 9
Gators Welcome Back AHS Redskins
The Gators congratulate and welcome back Anderson High Redskins Ben Terry, Alex Lewis and Sean Munninghoff. The Skins went to the state semi-finals before falling to eastside rival, Milford, in extra innings. Sean is still on the DL with a broken ankle and will be out at least three more weeks.
Tuesday, June 4
3 Gators Earn All-FAVC Honors
Ben Terry (Anderson), Sean Munninghoff (Anderson) and Joey Bryant (Glen Este) earned All Ft. Ancient Valley Conference honors. Ben was named to the first team ranking among conference leaders in RBI (5th as of week 5), Runs (5th), Hits (6th), and Batting Average (8th). Sean and Joey were named to the second team. Sean was 3rd in the conference in Doubles and Saves. Joey ranked near the top 10 in Batting Average with a 17th place among leaders after week 5 and a strong finish, including getting the only two hits against AHS ace, Jensen Lewis in the Sectional Finals.
Thursday, March 14
Tournament, League, H.S. Handouts
Some of our tournament information, including pool play handouts are available. See the listings in the "Handouts" Section and click on the file image(s). Information is also available about the league allignment this year, rules, high school rules regarding summer teams, high school schedules (send me schedules in the mail or the team web links if your team is not included), etc.
Friday, May 10
Tobias Announces Retirement
Dan Tobias recently announced his retirement from the Gators. Dan was one of the "Original Little Indians" back on the 6-year old Midland Knothole Instructional team. Dan was a key member of the Knothole D City Champions and the C City Runner-up teams. Dan was the most versatile player the Gators had. Two years ago, Dan played at least one-third of an inning at every position in a game that he started as the AH for an inning and a third. In that game, which was a five innings no-hitter, he contributed an inning on the mound and then caught the fifth. Last year's highlight was a pitching gem in the Multi-sanction Championship Tournament against the Butler County Cobras. It was the first win for the Gators/Midland over the Cobras/Sports Connection team. Not only will we miss Dan, but we will miss his parents, Tom and Diane. Tom has been the team scorekeeper and finance manager for the entire ten-year team existance of the team. Diane has been the de-facto "Team Mom" as she has generously coordinated getting water and food for the players and is famous, or infamous, for her cowbell and enthusiastic cheering. Good luck, Dan.
Sunday, June 16
Gator Dads' Pictures
A Father's Day Request to Gator Dads and Granddads: Bring in a couple of pictures from when you played baseball and we'll add them to our "Gator Dads" Photo Album. We have pictures of Scott Munninghoff playing pro ball with the Phillies and in the minors, Ron Oester's and Billy Doran's baseball cards and of a couple of other dads and a granddad playing for just slightly less prestigeous teams. Check it out under "Photos" (last album). Updated Jan 2004.
Sunday, June 23
Cincinnati Enquirer Score Desk
(513) 768-8438
Monday, September 4
Ben Terry Spends Summer with Outerbanks
Ben Terry took his last exam at Furman then rushed to Kitty Hawk, NC to join the Outerbanks Daredevils of the Coastal Plains League. Ben hit .272 with 19 RBIs in 38 games in a season marred by a nagging elbow injury. OBX struggled in late innings. In the first half of the season, if they had held onto their 8th and 9thi inning leads they would have won their division; instead they came in last! How do you spell relief?