The HOOTS Connie Mack and HOOTS U17 Select Team will open their 2012 Summer season the weekend of June 2 and June 3 at San Ramon Valley High School Varsity Field.  The club will host the NorCal Baseball organization on Saturday June 2 to begin at 11:00AM and on Sunday June 2 the day will feature the California Smoke starting also at 11:00AM followed by the HOOTS U17 Select team in a round robin pre season scrimmage.  Should be a fun opening weekend as many players remain in NCS playoffs and will be joining their summer clubs for the first time.  Connie Mack results can be found at the HOOTS web site or at www.northerncaliforniaconniemackbaseball.net

The new HOOTS Under 16 Freshman team managed by former outstandinbg Campolindo and Cal player Clint Hoover will begin their season on June 7 at Chabot College.  Former HOOTS, Chabot College and Monte Vista player Andy Keller will also be coaching on the team which is highly talented for their age group.  The team will compete in the AABC Mickey Mantle program which is the 16 under age group to both the Connie Mack and Don Mattingly teams.  You can follow these teams at www.norcalsb.com which is the official web site for AABC Select Baseball in Northern California.

 Schedules and rosters are available on the HOOTS web site by request.

The HOOTS players will be participating in college camp games during the Martin Luther King Weekend January 14-16.  Starting Saturday at Cal Poly University, San Luis Obispo AT 4:00PM and later in the weekend at UCLA, Los Angeles.  This is invitation only and the players will be divided between the two universities.  Some players will attend both college camp games as we will play one game at 4:00PM on Sunday at UCLA and a double header on Monday January 16 starting at 9:00AM. The rosters will be emailed out to players on Saturday.  All waiver forms previously provided and payment for the camp games are due this Sunday, no exceptions, as these are sent to the universities prior to participation and required by NCAA regulations. 

The HOOTS Fall Program will conclude after the Martin Luther King Weekend.  Players will receive invitations for the HOOTS summer teams later in January and after highschool programs have made their player decisions for 2012. 

The HOOTS players have been invited to attend the UCSB College Camp games on December 28 and 29 at UC Santa Barbara.  If you are a junior or senior and did not receive the information over the weekend please contact Coach Johns directly.  Emails were sent out over the weekend with the roster for the two day prospect camp games.

"A huge Thank You to the Cal State Fullerton Baseball staff for the camp weekend, Todd Rogers and the Australian coach's and players for a great weekend of baseball for our players, parents and coach's at Goodwin Stadium.  There is always a reason why organizations and college programs like the Titans have great success, it starts with their leaders and how they and their players conduct themselves.  First Class and greatly appreciated by the HOOTS Baseball Family.  Thanks for letting us be part of it."

Coach Don Johns 

Saturday October 1:

2:00PM HOOTS 1 vs Australia 11

6:00PM HOOTS 2 vs Placentia Mustangs 0

Sunday October 2:

10:00AM HOOTS 3 vs Australia 2 

HOTEL:  Marriott at Cal State Fullerton.  2701 East Nutwood Av.  Fullerton, Ca. 92831.  Rate is $106 per night includes full buffet breakfast.

Call in for reservation at 800-228-9290 and ask for the HOOTS room block.

Hotel phone is 714-738-7800.

I will share this comment with you from a college coach, "players need to get better, not spend thousands of dollars going to showcases."

Final Days 4 & 5:

The HOOTS 2011 Connie Mack season ended with a loss at the World Series to Puerto Rico 7-5.  Leading at one point in the game 5-0 behind the pitching of James Carter, the HOOTS bull pen could not record the final 3 outs holding a 5-2 lead and stop the scoring of the Lobos Arecibo team who used a different pitcher in each inning.  The strategy kept the HOOTS offense from scoring after the early inning lead and limited the West Region Champion to three hits. 

In the media interview after the game Coach Johns made the following observations.

"You cannot defend walks, our bull pen had to pitch to contact and let our defense, the best part of our team play the game in the final two innings.  You do not want that to happen at this point of your season, and it was out of character of our pitching staff except early on this summer.  But there are a lot factors that the bench jockeys sitting at home have no knowledge as they are not here in Ricketts Park, and the pressure these players have on them.  It is the biggest game of their lives, in the biggest venue they have ever had to play in, and in front of the largest crowd.  They are amateurs, and they fail.  But so do the professional players, it just happens and it is part of the game of baseball"

"I know that getting to Farmington and the Connie Mack World Series may be the greatest thing some of these players may achieve in their baseball lives.  I set my personal goals high, to win a National Championship.  If I accept anything less then my goals were not set high enough.  So I am disappointed, but fully recognize we won a State Championship, a very tough West Regional Championship going 5-0 in Arizona, and we got to the Connie Mack World Series which only our 2009 achieved in over 20 years from Northern California and as an organization we are one of the top 10 teams in the nation both in 2009 and in 2011.  That says a lot coming from a small recruiting area that we select our players.  We will rebuild our roster and evaluate our entire organization structure, and we will find a way to get back here and win"

The 2011 HOOTS season ended with an overall record of 33 wins and 13 losses, and Championships at the Wally Kincaid Wood Bat Championship at Blair Field in Southern California, California North State Connie Mack Championship, and the Western Regional Connie Mack Championship.

To players interested in the HOOTS program for this Fall and 2012 summer season, Ben Hogan said "Every day you don't practice, you're one day further from being good."

"Champions are made when no one is watching."

Day 2:

"Game three of the Connie Mack World Series was a shoving match between the defending back-to-back champions Midland Redskins, and the Danville HOOTS, a team in their second appearance in Farmington"

The Midland team won 4-3 behind the solid pitching performance of lefty Dillon Peters, a 20th round draft pick of the Cleveland Indians and a signee of University of Texas.  Nick Piscotty started for the HOOTS and kept the Midland team scorless through the first two innings.  The HOOTS took a 2-0 lead in the top of the third inning, but was unable to keep the lead as Midland scored twice in the bottom of the inning to tie the game 2-2.  The HOOTS took the lead once again on a Ryan Howell double to lead 3-2.  Piscotty was relieved by Domenic Mazza in the fifth inning and was able to get a double play with the bases loaded to end the threat by Midland.  The HOOTS were unable to handle two infield plays in the fifth inning, and a pass ball followed by a Midland single for them to take the lead over the Danville team 4-3.  With a runner at 3rd base and the infield playing in and one out, Mazza was relieved by lefty Spenser Linney who retired the next two Midland hitters with strikeouts.

The HOOTS challenged in the top of the seventh, Howard reached second base on an infield hit and error, as the home plate umpire called it a fair ball and the 1st base umpire called a foul ball.  After arguments the play was called foul.  Howard reached first base on a walk but the HOOTS could not advance him to tie the game which ended with Midland 4 and HOOTS 3.

Coach Johns commented to the local news media "...Never happy unless we win.  We had our chances.  Should have played better defense in one inning.  We had the lead a couple of times and a great opportunity to win the game," Johns said.  "We come out of the West Region and we play a tough schedule.  We do not expect being to be in the losers bracket to be a problem...our pitching is fine."

Sunday the traditional home run derby will take place, followed by a 5:00PM game between the HOOTS and Puerto Rico. 

Day 1:

A long trip and arriving at 4:00AM did not take away from the first day at the Connie Mack World Series for the HOOTS.  The team met with their host families, caught a few hours of sleep, and was on their float made by BP America for the traditional Connie Mack parade through the streets of Farmington, New Mexico.  With the streets lined with thousands of people to see the teams who will compete for the 2011 National Championship, this city in the badlands of New Mexico for the past 47 years have made the World Series here a special place for the all the players who have earned their way to Farmington.  This will be an event they will remember forever.

The HOOTS received their clearance and orientation through AABC, visit at the stadium and picture, and later in the day had the opportunity to get some practice time, taking batting practice, short bull pens and a chance to get on a field.  The opening ceremony took place at 7:30PM with the stadium packed to see the teams and traditional opening day remarks by the American Amateur Baseball Congress. 

The players here are the celebrity, the event is the moment, but the HOOTS take the field on Saturday against the returning two time National Champion Midland Redskins to play baseball. 

Day 2:

The HOOTS Connie Mack team will leave from San Francisco on Thursday, August 4 and head to the World Series in Farmington, New Mexico.  Due to airline restrictions the team does not arrive into Farmington until 3:00AM. The traditional Parade of Champions through Farmington will take place on Friday at 11:30AM.  The Connie Mack World Series web site is linked below.

http://www.cmws.org/ 

Support is being received to the web site from friends and are noted below.

John Hughes, Northern California Scouts Association.  Florida Marlins.

• "On behalf of the Northern California Baesball Scouts Association I want to congratulate you and the Danville HOOTS players on your Western Region Championship and your return to the Connie Mack World Series for the 2nd time in 3 years.  You continue to produce a top notch program year after year and make all of us from Northern California proud.  Best of luck to you in Farmington, New Mexico."

Don Lyle.  Cleveland Indians.

• "Congratulations and Great job this season Don. Beating them with fundamentals."

Steve Friend. Chabot College.

• "Easy come-easy go-what else is new. Its what you guys do, WIN!!! Congrats."

Nate Schierholtz, San Francisco Giants.

• "Great job Donny and the HOOTS going back to the Connie Mack World Series."

James Keller, Baltimore Orioles.

"Great job Don and good luck.  Give 'em hell down on the Bad Lands of NM.

Rich Bordi, Reds.

"Congratulations on getting to the World Series.  Best of luck and givem hell."

David Camarena, HOOTS Connie Mack Player.

"Hey coach don, this is david camarena.  Congratulations on making it back to the connie mack world series! I'm so proud of you, the coaches, and the guys! I miss you all so much and wish you the best of luck."

Day 3 at Connie Mack West Regional:

THE HOOTS ARE BACK!  

Back to the Connie Mack World Series in Farminton, New Mexico with a 2-0 win over the Orange County Renegades in the Championship game at the Connie Mack West Regional Tournament at Tempe Diablo Stadium in Arizona.  The HOOTS finish the West Regional Tournament undefeated with a record of 5-0.

The 2009 HOOTS became the first team in 20 years from Northern California to reach the Connie Mack World Series. 

Robert Martinez, Dublin, took the mound for the HOOTS vs the Renegades who have taken two games from the HOOTS earlier this season.  Martinez was very effective and efficient as he kept the offensive Renegades team off balance. David Elzig had a RBI single to score the first run, and later a Ryan Lacy bunt single for the second run to put the HOOTS ahead 2-0.  Martinez was relieved in the seventh inning by Nick Piscotty with the tying run at first base.  Piscotty recorded a strike out and fly ball for the HOOTS to secure the trip to the World Series and a dog pound on the field by the entire HOOTS team as they celebrate a return trip to the Connie Mack World Series.

Manager Don Johns received the ceremonial water bath after the game by the HOOTS players as they celebrated an amazing run through the North State Connie Mack Tournament and the Western Regional.  "We have great players, that have refused to let anything take away from our team goal to return to the Connie Mack World Series. One day they will look back and realize what they have achieved is amazing, and it will be a memory that will stay with them forever. My coaching staff of Johnny Rodrigues and Grant Johnson deserve a lot of credit for taking our offense to a higher level. When you go to a World Series, you wonder if you will ever go back.  THE HOOTS ARE BACK!  I look forward to seeing some of the people we met during our first trip there in 2009.  The Connie Mack World Series in Farmington may be one of the great experiences a player or coach ever has in amateur baseball."

The double header day started with the HOOTS as the only undefeated team in the West Regional Tournament with a 3-0 record. The Colton Nighthawks from Southern California took an early lead 1-0, and later led 6-3 in the middle of the game.  The HOOTS answered back to score 4 runs to take the lead in the fifth inning behind a solid pitching performance by Jack Veronin.  The HOOTS offense continued to add runs, as starting pitcher was relieved by Kyle Slinger and Domenic Mazza.  The Nighthawks had the tying run at third base and the winning run at second but an outstanding defensive play by Chris Keck at 3rd base for the third out secured the victory.

Day 2 at Connie Mack West Regional: 

The HOOTS Connie Mack team went into the double header on Friday at the Connie Mack West Regional Tournament with one win.  They left Tempe Diablo Stadium late on Friday night as the only undefeated team in the tournament with a record of 3-0.  

Earlier in the day they defeated the Arizona Diamond Backs team 11-1 on a outstanding complete game pitching performance of Duke bound Nick Piscotty.  Scoring early, pitching to contact and playing great team defense kept the Arizona team off balance the entire game.  

The winner bracket final was played at 7:30PM under the lights at Tempe Diablo Stadium.  The game started with the Arizona Athletics scoring early to take a 1-0 lead.  The HOOTS pitcher, James Carter, San Ramon Valley, kept the game close as they trailed until the fifth inning 1-0.  Carter was dominate against a very strong offensive line up for the Arizona champion.  Junior David Elzig, Alameda and Ryan Lacy, Monte Vista HS got the HOOTS on the scoreboard with back to back singles in the fifth inning for the HOOTS to take the lead 4-1. The Athletics challenged in the seventh inning and Carter was able to get the final three outs on outstanding defensive plays by Chris Keck and David Elzig.

Only four teams remain in the Connie Mack West Regional and games resume on Saturday at 5:00PM.  The HOOTS will face the Colton Nighthawks who are 2-1.  The double elimination tournament puts the HOOTS in a situation where they cannot play a team that they have already played according to AABC rules. After the first game on Saturday, only 3 teams will still be in the tournament and 2 games from advancing to the Connie Mack World Series. 

Coach Johns, "the struggle has only begun, this last day is the day you have to rise up and overcome all the obstacles to get to Farmington and the World Series. Nothing is easy, and no one is going to give this away without a battle. Our guys fought back all night against a very good team and found a way to win the game.  I am very proud of these guys and they are truly the type of players that make up the HOOTS teams."

You can now follow the HOOTS live on twitter.com

Day 1 at Connie Mack West Regional: 

The HOOTS defeated the Hitman from Los Angeles 3-2 in the opening round of the Connie Mack Western Regional tournament at Tempe Diablo Stadium in Arizona.

Junior left hand pitcher Domenic Mazza, Clayton Valley, threw five strong innings and was relieved by Jack Veronin for the final six outs.  After giving up one run in the first inning, Mazza was very effective allowing only three hits through five innings in the 105 degree weather.  Leaving the game with runners in scoring position, Manager Don Johns went to his bull pen and replaced Mazza with reliever Jack Veronin who was able to retire the side without giving up a run. 

The HOOTS had runners in scoring position early in the game and was unable to add to their lead and take the pressure off their pitching staff, which has been outstanding throughout their run through the Connie Mack State tournament. The HOOTS offense scored their runs on a Chris Keck double to tie the game in the 3rd inning.  Ryan Howell scored on Scott Mitchell and Tyler Davis back to back singles for the go ahead run.   

Coach Johns commented after the game, "We play a very difficult schedule, and we were here in June at the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier, so we know what this level of competition is about.  Some of our guys had to travel today, and it is hot so we started a little flat.  I told our guys in the third inning that we have worked hard to get where we are in terms of the Connie Mack season, and the opportunity to go to the World Series that everyone who plays wants to achieve.  We needed to find the energy to fight through this. They found a way to get the win."

The HOOTS play Friday at 5:00PM and at 7:30PM.  The eight team tournament continues today and four teams will remain after the Friday games. The winner of the Connie Mack West Regional will advance to the World Series in Farmington, New Mexico on August 4.  The HOOTS made their first visit to the Connie Mack World Series in 2009 to be the only Northern California team to achieve that in over 20 years.

Eight of the best teams were competiting to win a Connie Mack North State Championship, the HOOTS Baseball Club won their Fourth Northern California State Championship with a 7-4 victory over EJ Sports on the final day of the tournament.

Never easy, difficult field of teams, great competition were the key phrases that surround the Connie Mack North State Championship Tournament.  One team stands at the end to advance to represent Northern California at the Connie Mack West Regionals.  The HOOTS became that team behind a solid pitching performance by Duke bound Nick Piscotty and Kyle Slinger, committed to Tufts University.  The defense once again was flawless while the offense was led by Chris Keck, Tyler Davis and Brandon Woo.  The HOOTS will be one of the 8 remaining Connie Mack teams in the west while the winner advances to the Connie Mack World Series in Farmington, New Mexico.  The 2009 HOOTS became one of the first teams in 20 years from Northern California to reach the World Series.  That team was led by Stanford University junior Stephen Piscotty, First Team All Pac 10 and  who is currently playing in the Cape Cod Collegiate League and was an All Star Selection this summer.

The HOOTS will open Regional Play on Thursday at Tempe Diablo Stadium in Arizona.  You can view results of the West Regional at:

www.azdiamondreport.com 

Coach Johns commented on the game with the words of Chris Keck.  "We always try to outwork everyone, Champions are made when no one is watching."

Both teams faced with elimination in the Connie Mack North State Tournament the HOOTS defeated the West Lane Mets from Stockton 5-3 in a well played game by both teams to send them to the Championship game on Monday to determine the berth in the West Regional Connie Mack Tournament.  West Lane took an early lead 1-0 but the HOOTS answered back quickly to tie the game.  The battle between the two teams, who met each other in the North State Championship in 2010, saw the game tied 3 times before the HOOTS scored the 2 extra runs on key hits by Chris Keck and Brandon Woo. Junior San Ramon Valley pitcher James Carter threw 5 very strong innings for the HOOTS and Jack Veronin relieved in the top of the sixth to pitch to the minimum in the final two innings and secure the save for the HOOTS.

The Championship Game will be played at 2:00PM at Chabot College.  The HOOTS and a team to be decided will meet for the berth in the West Regional Connie Mack Tournament which begins on Thursday July 28 at Tempe Diablo Stadium in Arizona.  Three teams remain in the tournament which will conclude on Monday July 25.

The HOOTS lost in extra innings on Saturday 2-1 to NorCal-Cencal Valley in the Connie Mack North State Championship at Chabot College.  Spenser Linney pitched 7 strong innings for the HOOTS and was relieved in the top of the extra inning game.  Both teams played outstanding defense and the offense of both clubs was stalled behind solid pitching.  NorCal-CenCal Valley scored the winning run after the HOOTS intentionally loaded the bases with runner on second and third with one out.  The HOOTS bull pen failed after hitting the batter to force the winning run home.

The HOOTS will play in an elimination game today at 2:00PM at Chabot College.  Four teams remain and after today the tournament will be reduced to two teams to determine who would advance to the Connie Mack West Regionals in Arizona.

The HOOTS Connie Mack advanced to the winner bracket final with a 6-1 win over EJ Sports in the second day of the North State Championship at Chabot College.  Domenic Mazza threw five strong innings for the HOOTS and was relieved by Jack Veronin for the final two innings as both pitchers combined to only give up a solo home run in the first inning. The HOOTS offense got on track early in the game with key hits by Chris Keck, Tanner Pinkston and Tyler Davis.  The HOOTS played solid error free defense in their first two games of the tournament.  The winner bracket final will be at Chabot College at 5:00PM with the HOOTS and the winner of the West Lane and Cencal game held in Stockton late on Friday. 

Saturday July 23 Pairings:

11:00AM         EJ Sports vs Bercovich(elimination game)

2:00PM           EDH vs West Lane(elimination game)

5:00PM           HOOTS vs Cencal/Norcal Valley(winner bracket game)

The HOOTS defeated RBI Baseball 7-3 in extra innings in the first round of the Connie Mack North State Championship and will play in a winner bracket game on Friday at 5:00PM at Chabot College.  Duke bound right hand pitcher Nick Piscotty started for the HOOTS and threw 5 strong innings.  With the game tied 3-3, SRV pitcher James Carter threw 4 shoutout innings.  The HOOTS finally pushed a go ahead run in the ninth inning on a Scotty Mitchell lead off double, and later scored on a Brandon Woo single for the go ahead run.  The HOOTS managed to get a couple cushion runs also later in the inning while RBI made a threat in the bottom of the ninth but Carter was able to get the save.  The HOOTS have won this tournament four years in a row to advance to the Connie Mack West Regional Tournament.  This year could be one of the best fields in recent years with outstanding teams and excellent pitching.  

The HOOTS Connie Mack Baseball team advanced to the North State Championship as the Number 1 seed in their division and the overall #2 seed in Northern California Connie Mack Baseball. 

The tournament is being held at Chabot College starting on Thursday July 21.  The HOOTS will play at 5:00PM versus RBI Baseball the Number 2 seed from the Connie Mack Valley League.

The North State Championship games held at Chabot College are scheduled at 11:00AM, 2:00PM and 5:00PM.  The tournament will continue throught the weekend and will conclude with the Championship on Monday July 25.  The winner will advance to the Connie Mack West Regional Tournament held at Tempe Diablo Stadium in Arizona.

The HOOTS have represented Northern California Connie Mack as the North State Champion for the past four years in a row, a feat seldom achieved in Connie Mack Baseball.  The 2011 field of teams is guranteed to be challenge for all teams and will feature some of the best players in the western United States.

The Reno Knights and Manager Pete Savage defeated the Sonoma County Rebels in the Championship game 3-0.  The Reno team completed the tournament with an overall record of 3-0-1.  Quality pitching, Playing excellent defense and executing a team offense helped the Knights throughout the tournament.  Coach Savage is a long time highly successful coach at Reno High School and produces quality teams, state championships and outstanding players.  A tribute to his players, coaching staff and to Coach Savage not seen by many coach's today.  The tournament was attended by many college coach's throughout the west and appreciated by them for the quality of the players, the teams and the SRVHS varsity facility.  The team received the beautiful Matt Cain, signed 2010 World Series Championship framed memorabilia which was donated by The HOOTS Baseball Club and Ken Brison of "Talkin Baseball" located in the Town & Country shopping center in Danville.

Congratulations to the Reno Knights as the 2011 Champion of the Seventh Annual "HOOTS Fly With Owl Invitational."

The 7th Annual HOOTS "FLY WITH THE OWL INVITATIONAL" tournament will be held at San Ramon Valley HS in Danville July 14-17.  The tournament features many of the best Connie Mack, American Legion and Palamino teams in the west.  Participating this year in the tournament with the HOOTS Connie Mack team will be the Sonoma County Rebels, Reno Knights coached by Pete Savage, Santa Clara Red Sox coached by Chuck Blair, EJ Warriors coached by Erik Johnson, Sluggers Baseball from Palm Desert coached by former SRV, Chabot and professional player Pat Evans who was a coach on the 2000 HOOTS National Championship American Legion team with long time HOOTS Manager Don Johns and Associate Head Coach John Rodrigues. 

Saturday, July 16 at 4:00PM all teams will participate in Home Run Derby Games featuring a Home Run Derby, Fastest Around Bases, Outfield Relay, and Infield Relay. 

This is an opportunity for local fans to watch some of the best amateur baseball players in the west and several teams that have achieved national, regional and state championships.  Most important, this is a group of coach's who remain close friends and provide opportunity for amateur players to play against top competition.

We hope to see you at the field to see some of the best players in the west and their very competitive teams.  This is great amateur baseball played in our local area and the opportunity to see the top players in the west, many committed to their future college programs.  Connie Mack Baseball, American Legion and Palomino players are age 16 through 18 and represent the very best players in their age group.

Schedule Thursday July 14:

10:00AM EJ Warriors-13 vs. Santa Clara Red Sox -3

1:00PM   Sonoma Rebels-4 vs. Reno Knights -6

4:00PM   HOOTS Baseball-2 vs. Palm Desert-0

Schedule Friday July 15:

10:00AM  Reno Knights-3 vs. Palm Desert-3 Tie 9 Innings

1:00PM   Sonoma Rebels-4  vs Santa Clara Red Sox-2

4:00PM   HOOTS Baseball-1 vs EJ Warriors-2

Schedule Saturday July 16:

10:00AM   Sonoma Rebels-5 vs EJ Warriors-2

1:00PM    Santa Clara Red Sox vs. Palm Desert

3:30PM    Team Competition and Home Run Derby 

5:30PM     HOOTS Baseball vs. Reno Knights

Sunday July 17:

EJ Sports-2                   STC Sluggers Baseball-4

HOOTS-6                     Santa Clara Red Sox-4

Championship:

Reno Knights-3          Sonoma County Rebels-0

2011 ARIZONA NATIONAL CONNIE MACK WORLD SERIES QUALIFIER MEDAL ROUND RESULTS:  

Announced late Friday evening, the HOOTS will play in the semi-finals against the Orange County Renegades at 2:00PM at Tempe Diablo Stadium.  The winner will advance to the championship on Sunday. 

Only five remaining teams are left in the National Connie Mack World Series Tournament: Dallas Patriots, Arizona Firebirds, SoCal Renegades, Utah Bucks and the HOOTS.  These programs each year are at the top of the national ranking in Connie Mack Baseball which makes this tournament one of the most difficult in the country and features some of the top amateur players in the nation.  The HOOTS are familiar with all of the teams remaining having played each of them at different tournaments throughout the summer and past years.  "It is down to survival mode as all of us except one of the teams will remain undefeated by the time we play today, commented Coach Johns.  It has been a great run, some tough victories as there are no bad teams in this tournament and we are still alive, and we need to find the will to make it to the end.  I am very proud of our players and this HOOTS team."

The HOOTS defeated Southern California's Trombly Baseball 9-6 on Friday to advance to the sem finals in the World Series Qualifier and remain as one of 6 teams left in the tournament.  Nick Piscotty threw four strong innings and Robert Martinez threw 3 innings with the HOOTS holding a 3 run lead and get the win save for the HOOTS.  After trailing 3-1 through 4 innings, David Elzig started a rally after Christian Gadzar drew a lead off walk. Ryan Lacy in that inning hit a home run to left field at Tempe Diablo Stadium to give the HOOTS the lead. 

Earlier in the medal round, the HOOTS fell to the Arizona Firebirds 5-1 as they faced a very good left hand drafted pitcher from the Firebirds. Tyler Cobb started on the mound for Danville and was relieved by Chris Keck and David Elzig.  Arizona remains undefeated in the medal round as the tournament enters the final 2 days. 

HOW IT STARTED: 

The Danville HOOTS Connie Mack team advanced their season record to 7-0 with a win in the opening round of the AABC Connie Mack World Series Qualifier at Tempe Diablo Stadium in Arizona.  The Connie Mack World Series Qualifier is invitation only and hosts 20 of the top Connie Mack teamns in the nation and tournament is held at Tempe Diablo Stadium, the home of the California Angels.

The HOOTS defeated the Dallas Tigers 3-1 in the first game at the qualifier tournament.  Left hand pitcher Domenic Mazza, 2012 Clayton Valley, pitched a complete game for the HOOTS.  After falling behind early in the game 1-0, the HOOTS offense scored 3 runs in the fourth inning with key hits by Ryan Lacy, Steven Moen, Chris Keck, and Scotty Mitchell. Mazza settled down after having the bases loaded in the first inning and giving up one run.  He faced the minimum batters in the last four innings supported with good team defense.

The HOOTS resume play against the Dallas Patriots in their second game.  The winner of the Connie Mack World Series qualifier receives an automatic berth to the Connie Mack World Series in Farmington, New Mexico.

GAMES 2 AND 3:

THE HOOTS suffered a loss in their second game to the Dallas Patriots 9-6.  The Patriots held a 6-0 lead at one point in the game but the HOOTS battled back to get within one run later in the game.  The HOOTS pitchers struggled to stop the talented Texas team on the base paths through the entire game. 

Colorado Slammers in Game 3 had James Carter from the HOOTS throw a complete game for a 7-2 win for the HOOTS to advance their record in the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier to 2-1.  Carter, 2012 San Ramon Valley pitcher was seldom in trouble. The game was close with the HOOTS leading 3-1 in the sixth inning.  Brandon Woo had a bases loaded double, followed by key sacrifice fly balls by Chris Keck and Steven Moen to score 2 additional runs to cushion the HOOTS lead over the Slammers. 

GAME 3 AND 4:

The HOOTS advanced to the Medal round at the Connie Mack World Series Qualifier after a 4-4 tie game on Thursday against the Arizona Diamond Back Scout team. The HOOTS placed second in their bracket with a record of 2-1-1, with a favorable runs allowed record,  and will play the #1 seed Arizona Firebirds at Tempe Diablo Stadium field in a night game.  Three HOOTS pitchers combined for the save.  Trent Yee, Alameda and Jack Veronin, Chabot College combined for six innings.  Tyler Cobb, Alameda 2011, entered the game in the bottom of the seventh with two outs and the winning run on second base for the Diamond Backs.  Cobb was able to get a strike out to save the tie and advance the HOOTS to the Championship rounds.  The Firebirds and the HOOTS are familiar with each other as both organizations have played in the Connie Mack Western Regional Tournaments the past five years as well as the World Series. The HOOTS represented the West in Farmington in 2009 and the Firebirds in 2010. A total of 10 national ranked teams remain in the tournament each competeting for the birth in the Connie Mack World Series. 

ABOUT THE NATIONAL CONNIE MACK WORLD SERIES QUALIFIER:

The national Connie Mack World Series Qualifier is sanctioned by American Amateur Baseball Congress and is invitation only to 20 of the top rated teams. The tournament host is the Arizona Baseball Association and held at the Tempe Diablo Stadium, home of the California Angels.  The winner of the tournament receives an automatic birth to the Connie Mack World Series in Farmington, New Mexico in August.  Many baseball people rank the Connie Mack World Series in line with MLB World Series and the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska. 

The tournament has had major interest from most college baseball programs and professional scouts.  Many of the teams had multiple players drafted in the amateur draft earlier in June.  The Dallas Patriots who the HOOTS played in Game 2 had 8 players drafted and their shortstop was a early round, 1-2, selection but is planning to attend U. of Texas.  Two HOOTS players and their top pitchers, Spenser Linney, Stanford bound and Nick Piscotty, Duke University bound were also taken in the draft.

You can view results at azdiamondreport.com or visit the links tab on this site.

Congratulations to the following existing and former HOOTS players who are receiving recognition for their performance during their 2011 season.

• Stephen Piscotty, Stanford U., First Team, ALL Pac 10.
• Matt Flemer, Cal, Honorable Mention, All Pac 10 Pitcher
• Spenser Linney, Head Royce, League MVP BCL East, Pitcher
• Steven Moen, California H.S., First Team EBAL, Catcher
• Ryan Lacy, Monte Vista, First Team EBAL, Infield
• David Camarena, Foothill, Male Athlete of The Year
• Nick Piscotty, Amador, Second Team EBAL, Pitcher
• Jason Tuan,Monte Vista, Second Team EBAL, Outfield
• Kyle Slinger, SRV, Honorable Mention EBAL, Pitcher
• David Elsig, Alameda, League MVP, ACCAL
• Brandon Woo, Alameda, First Team, ACCAL, Shortstop
• Trent Yee, Alameda, Pitcher of the Year, ACCAL
• Domenic Mazza, Clayton Valley, First Team DVAL, Pitcher
• Scott Mitchell, Dublin, First Team DFAL, DH
• Tanner Pinkston, Dougherty Valley, First Team DFAL, First Base
• Andrew Hobson, Dubline, DFAL, Gold Glove Award, Infield
• Tyler Davis, Miramonte, First Team DFAL, 3rd Base
• James Marvel, Campolindo, League MVP DFAL
• Austin Rei, Campolindo, DFAL, Gold Glove Award, Catcher
• Paddy O'Brien, Miramonte, First Team DFAL, Catcher
• Drew Jackson, Miramonte, First Team DFAL, Gold Glove Award, Shortstop
• Josh Cushing, Campolindo, First Team Infield
• Cameron Cotton, Athenian, First Team BCL East, Pitcher
• Trent Shelton, Campolindo, Second Team DFAL, Pitcher
• Paul Schaff, Dublin, Second Team DFAL, 1st Base
• Brian Hamm, Chabot College Freshman, MVP Golden Gate Conference
• Steven Swift, Diablo Valley Sophmore, Pitcher of Year, Big 8 Conference
• Michael Kathan, San Mateo JC Freshman, Golden Glove Award-Infield
• Scott Quinlan, Chabot College Freshman, All Conference Golden Gate
• Chris Killeen, San Mateo JC Freshman, All Conference Golden Gate-1st Base 
• David Johnson, Modesto JC Freshman, All Big 8 First Team-DH
• Jason Kochan, Diable Valley JC, All Big 8. Second Team-Pitching
• Tyler Davis, Miramonte HS, Tournament MVP, Fort Bragg Invitational
• Drew Jackson, Miramonte HS, All Tournament, Fort Bragg Invitational
• Paddy O'Brien, Miramonte HS, All Tournament, Fort Bragg Invitational

The policy of the club is to recognize players who are current players in the program or players that were members of the HOOTS Connie Mack Club at the conclusion of their senior year in high school.  The exception to this is a player that was injured and was unable to participate due to that injury. 

Major League Baseball Play of The Week ranked the ninth inning game saving catch of former HOOTS player and Giants outfielder Nate Schierholtz the 7th best of play of the week in May.  Ranking 80 plays from all MLB teams Nate's diving catch with 2 outs saved the victory for the Giants vs the LA Dodgers.  Nate continues to add to his resume' by his play as a defensive outfielder, his ability to field and throw runners out trying to advance, and beginning to show the power and offense that was always part of his game.  Nate had a pinch hit 2 run homer on Sunday in the inter-league game versus the A's to bring the Giants back from a 4-2 deficit, which was eventually won by the Giants in the 11th inning.

Nate is hitting with an average of .263 currently, and a team lacking offense, and only a couple players with an average much higher, he bides his time and proves he belongs as an everyday player every chance he gets.  "All I can do is take advantage of my opportunities."  Sound familiar!

Congratulations to the following players from the HOOTS Baseball Program and our ZOOTS Team from the graduation years 2011-2013 that as of this date have accepted a scholarship and signed their intent to play baseball at the college level or made a verbal commitment to a school. 

2011 Grad Year Committments:

Brandon Carr-Monte Vista-Villanova University

Chris Keck-Amador Valley-UCLA

Spenser Linney-Head Royce-Stanford University

Scott Mitchell-Dublin-Long Beach State

Steven Moen-California-Sonoma State University

Nick Piscotty-Amador Valley-Duke University

2012-2013 Grad Year Committments:

Braden Bishop-St. Francis-Washington 

Drew Jackson-Miramonte-Stanford University

Paddy O'Brien-Miramonte-Santa Clara University

Austin Rei-Campolindo-U. of Washington

Trent Shelton-Campolindo-Oregon State University

Prospect Recognition:

Stanford Sophmore Stephen Piscotty received recognition as the Top Prospect from the Alaska Summer Collegiate League and was awarded the Silver Slugger Award.  Stephen was a 3 year player in the HOOTS program and started for Stanford last year as a true freshman, playing both an outfield and infield position, and hit 3rd in the Stanford lineup.  Baseball American rated the 2010 and the 2011 Stanford recruiting class as the best in the nation.

Saturday Day 4:  The HOOTS 2010 season ended at the Connie Mack West Regional in a 3-1 loss to the Southern California Conejo Oaks.  The HOOTS ended in 5th place at the West Regional with a record of 2-2 against the best Connie Mack teams in the region.  In a game played with good pitching and solid defense, the HOOTS took an early 1-0 lead.  Conejo came back in the 3rd inning and scored 3 runs off Craig Lanza which was all they would need for the win.  Conejo ended up in 3rd place in a tournament.  The Arizona Firebirds won the Connie Mack West Regional with a overall record of 5-0 and secured the birth in the World Series starting this week in Farmington, New Mexico.  The 2010 HOOTS team faced one of the most difficult seasons in recent years against some of the best teams in the nation.  They represented themselves as a very competitive team with great character and had a high level of success in Connie Mack baseball.  Congratulations to all the players and coaching staff for a great job!!

Friday Day 3.  The HOOTS defeated the Northwest Champion Seattle Schockers 2-1 in a 10 inning game played in the Semi Final round at the Connie Mack West Regional at the University of Washington.  The HOOTS moved their record to 2-1 in the West Regional Tournament.  In an elimination game for both teams Nick Piscotty pitched 7 strong innings of 4 hit baseball and left the game in the seventh inning with the game time 1-1.  Piscotty was relieved by Andy Eslick who pitched the a shutout in the final three innings to secure the victory for the HOOTS. The HOOTS offense was led by junior catcher Steven Moen who hit a double to score the first run and later had a hit for the go ahead run in the 10th inning.  Four teams remain as they head into the Saturday round of play. The HOOTS will play at 11:30AM against Southern California.

The HOOTS lost to Trombly Baseball from Southern California 8-7 in the second game of the Connie Mack West Regional tournament in Seattle, Washington.  One day removed from HOOTS pitchers combining to throw a no hitter in the Connie Mack West Regional, it took four pitchers against Southern California ChampionTrombly Baseball to keep them in the game.  Craig Lanza started on the mound for the HOOTS, followed by Raul Jacobson, Kyle Slinger and Andy Eslick.  The HOOTS took an early lead 1-0 on a Chris Keck home run in the first inning.  The game ended with the tying run at second base but the walks issued earlier in the game by HOOTS pitchers became difficult to overcome against a very good Connie Mack team from their own state.  The double elimnation tournament continues as the HOOTS will play Friday night at the University of Washington.

The HOOTS won their opening game at the Connie Mack West Regional Championship at the University of Washington in Seattle with a 5-0 win over the Northwest Champion Puget Sound Connie Mack team.  Spenser Linney pitched a six inning, no hit shut out and was replaced at the bottom of the seventh inning with the HOOTS leading 5-0.  The game was tied 0-0 through six innings and the HOOTS finally scored in the top of seventh led by a Garrett Moore infield single, another single by Chris Keck, followed by a single by Scotty Quinlan to load the bases.  Steven Moen walked and the first run was scored by the HOOTS.  Corbin Chase doubled to add two more runs.  The final run was scored on a sacrifice fly to give the HOOTS a 5 run inning and the lead.  Andy Eslick relieved Linney in the seventh inning to get the final 3 outs. The no hit pitching effort of Linney through six innings was the key to the victory for the HOOTS.  They advance to Round 2 tomorrow at 1:00PM.

Faced with the AABC Connie Mack State Bracket rules, the HOOTS had to play CenCal on the Sunday the final day of the tournament.  The winner earns the berth to the Connie Mack West Regional Tournament and the final game for the North State Championship.  Nick Piscotty took the ball for the HOOTS against a very talented CenCal team and pitched a complete game 2-0 shut out to earn the victory and send his team to Seattle for the West Regional Connie Mack tournament.  This will be the fourth year in a row where the HOOTS have represented Northern California and only one year removed from winning the regional and going to the Connie Mack World Series in Farmington, New Mexico.

West Lane-Stockton and the HOOTS played for the North State Championship later in the day.  West Lane won their first Connie Mack title with a 5-4 win over the HOOTS.  Congratulations are in order for both teams as they move on and begin play at the West Regional held in Seattle at the University of Washington and Banner Stadium in Bellevue, Washington on Wednesday July 28.  You can follow the West Regional tournament at www.mudvillebaseball.org

The HOOTS advanced Sunday July 25 to the North State Connie Mack Championship with a decivise 5-0 win against the Bercovich Head First Baseball program in an elimination game played in the fourth round in the North State Championship. Andy Eslick pitched a complete game shutout for the HOOTS in the win against Bercovich and eliminated the east bay program from the tournament. The offenese was led by UCLA 2011 bound Chris Keck who enters his senior year at EBAL Champion Amador Valley High School as well as his selection as MVP of all east bay baseball programs for 2010.  Sunday game time is at 12:00 at Chabot College.

The HOOTS lost on Friday to West Lane and according to AABC rules no team can play another team in a final 3 until each team has played each other.  The HOOTS have not played Cencal in the tournament and will play them on Sunday for the North State Championship berth and the Connie Mack West Regional Tournamet next week in Seattle, Washington.

Thursday Connie Mack State Championship Results.  The HOOTS defeated the EDH Vipers 11-2 behind a complete game from left hand pitcher Spenser Linney.  With the game tied after 2 innings the HOOTS scored in every inning while Linney kept EDH off balance for the entire game.  The HOOTS play in the winner bracket final today at 4:00 PM against West Lane from Stockton.

The HOOTS advanced in the Connie Mack Northern California State Championship with a 7-3 win over the UC Lookouts.  They play Thursday at Chabot College with a game time of 4:00PM vs the EDH Vipers who defeated the Ca. Smoke in Round 1 of the tournament.   Nick Piscotty pitched 5 strong innings for the HOOTS.  Raul Jacobson came in relief and pitched the final 2 innings.  Garrett Moore had a 3 run RBI double in the top of the fifth inning to pulll the HOOTS  ahead after trailing 3-2 through four innings.

The 2010 Connie Mack Northern California Association State Championship will start on Wednesday July 21.  Games will be played at Chabot College in Hayward, California starting at 10:00AM, 1:00PM and 4:00PM.  The following teams have qualified for the tournament to decide the team to represent Northern California at the Connie Mack West Regionals next week in Seattle, Washington. 

CenCal, Bercovich, EJ Sports, West Lane Mets, Ca. Smoke, EDH Vipers, and HOOTS Baseball.  One game remains to determine the last team to be decided between the Delta Indians and UC Lookouts.  The HOOTS will play at 4:00PM against the team determined at the conclusion of play on Tuesday, July 20.

Two games will be played at St. Mary's in Stockton.  One on Wednesday and one of Thursday to start at 5:00PM.

With all the baseball players in the entire bay area, highschool and college, we are pleased that two players who played with us for 3 years were the top players selected in the 2010 Major League Draft.   

Former 3 year HOOTS player JOSH SLATTS, University of Hawaii, was the highest local player selected in the 2010 Major League Draft.  Josh was selcted in the Fifth round, 170 overall, by the Colorado Rockies.  Josh attended Cal High and was a 3 year member of our HOOTS team and attended the University of Hawaii on a baseball scholarship.

Nick Bartolone, Chabot College, also a 3 year player on the HOOTS, was selected in the sixth round of the draft, 180 overall, by the Cleveland Indians.  Nick attended Chabot College and was offered a scholarship to move on to Division 1 UC Bakersfield to play next year.

"Both Josh and Nick set a standard of committment and excellence that exemplifies a HOOTS player" commented Coach Johns.  "I know they are proud of what they have achieved and believe me it is well deserved by these two guys. Their work ethic set a standard I wish all players would follow.  I am proud that they were here with us all through their amateur years and I had the chance to coach them. I wish them the very best as they move on." 

Also selected this year in the 19th round was Eric Jaffe, Bishop O'Dowd HS.  Eric is a member of the 2010 HOOTS Connie Mack Team and is headed to UC Berkeley after a outstanding high school season.

The HOOTS WON THE JOSH ANDERSON MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT AT UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA IN RENO.

The HOOTS finished the tournament with two back to back days of outstanding tournament play with a 14-2 victory over the Boise Gems in the Championship game.  The semi final game saw the HOOTS defeat the Santa Clara Red Sox 12-2.  The HOOTS finished the tournament undefeated with a record of 6-0.

Four HOOTS players were recognized for their play during the tournament.  Stephen Piscotty was Tournament MVP.  Three other players were selected as All Tournament.  Brian Hamm, Infield-Chris Keck-Infield, Joey Epperson-Outfield.

In Friday's medal round game the HOOTS defeated the Napa River Dogs 8-7.  The winner of today's game will play in the Championship on Sunday.  Stephen Piscotty got the save and the win for the HOOTS on the mound.  Picscotty entered the game in the fourth inning with the game tied 6-6 against a strong offensive Napa team. Brian Hamm hit a double in the sixth inning to get the go ahead RBI for the HOOTS.

The HOOTS Black team won their third game on Thursday 6-25 at the 2009 JOSH ANDERSON TOURNAMENT at University of Nevada Reno and stand with a record of 3-0.  The undefeated HOOTS beat Chico 12-9 to gain the Number 1 seed in their pool.  Jason Kochan got the win on the mound for the HOOTS while the offense was led by first baseman John Vaccaro with 2 doubles and one triple.  Joey Epperson, Brian Hamm and Stephen Piscotty all had an offensive day for the HOOTS.  The first round of medal play begins with the Danville club on Friday at 10:00AM.

Danville won their second game 13-1 versus the Yakima Pepsi Pak.  Andrew Kjar and George Asmus combined on the mound with Kjar getting the win.  Stephen Piscotty hid a home run in the first inning and finished going 3 for 4 and leading the HOOTS offense. 

In their first tournament game the HOOTS defeated the Santa Clara Red Sox on a walk off monster grand slam by Chris Keck in the seventh inning to win 11-8.  Ryan Deeter and Andy Eslick combined on the mound for the HOOTS for the victory.

The HOOTS continue to be a resilient team and they advance their 2009 record to a very impressive start both in Connie Mack league play and non conference games.

Monday before the start of the tournament the Danville club was hosted by the Galena Baseball Club in a non conference game.  Galena is managed by Ron McNutt a long time friend of Coach Johns and Nevada hall of fame coach.  Coach McNutt ran one of the best highschool programs at Carson City High School and also one of the top amateur clubs the Carson City Capitals.  The Galena facility is new and an outstanding baseball complex built by Coach McNutt and community support.  The HOOTS won the game 7-3 but most important was the reunion of these long time friends and coach's. 

A great addition to the HOOTS coaching staff is one of the best pitchers the program has produced. Mateo Mirramontes is working with the pitchers and adding insight from his experience both in college and professional baseball.  Mateo was one of the HOOTS top pitchers for 3 years and led the team to a National Championship in 2000.  He went on to pitch at the University of Nevada and was drafted in the sixth round by the New York Mets.  Everyone here in Nevada has great memories of his years here both as an amateur and a top collegiate pitcher.

The HOOTS Black team defeated the Sonoma Rebels 13-1 to win the Connie Mack North State title.  Both teams will advance to the West Regional at Chabot College starting on Wednesday July 29 for a birth in the Connie Mack World Series. Will LaMarsh pitched 5 strong innings for the HOOTS and the offense was led by Stanford bound Stephen Piscotty who was 3-3 for the day, 7RBI's that included a bases loaded triple. The West Region tournament will feature the 8 top Connie Mack teams from Arizona, Southern California and Washington. The winner will advance to the Connie Mack World Series held in Farmington, New Mexico.

The HOOTS open the West Region Tournament at 5:00PM against an opponent to be named later today.  This is an opportunity for baseball fans in Northern California to see some of the top teams in the nation and the many of the nation's best amateur players.

The HOOTS Black team defeated the Union City Lookouts 8-7 on Saturday in the North State Tournament and remain undefeated with a record of 4-0. Jason Kochan pitched for the HOOTS early in the game and got the victory. Andrew Kjar and Andy Eslick followed on the mound in a tight game in the later innings.

On Friday the HOOTS defeated NorCal U18 team 5-3.  The HOOTS Stephen Piscotty got the win on the mound for the HOOTS pitching a complete game.  The HOOTS play Saturday at 2:00PM vs. Union City and are guranteed a spot in the Championship Round on Sunday.

Earlier in the tournament the HOOTS defeated the California Smoke 8-5 on Thursday.  Michael Theofanopoulos got the win for the HOOTS on the mound after entering the game in the third inning with the game tied 2-2. Ryan Deeter started for the HOOTS in the first game to get the win for the HOOTS over the Tracy Cardinals.

The HOOTS entered the tournament as a top seed with an overall record in their league of 9-1 and an overall record with only 2 Connie Mack losses of 36-5-1.  The HOOTS are the defending Connie Mack North State Champion and have won the tournament the past two years to advance to the Connie Mack Western Regionals. 

Game times on Sunday are at 11:00AM.

You can follow the tournament also at www.northerncaconniemackbaseball.net

The Connie Mack West Region Tournament games are as follows.  Brackets are available in the Hand Out Section of this web site and also will be available on www.northerncaconniemackbaseball.net.  All teams will be sent emails with the brackets and provided hard copy at the coach's meeting.

Results from Games on Wednesday July 29: 

11:00AM     Arizona Firebirds-2 vs Sonoma Rebels-4

11:00AM     OC Renegades-8 vs. Blue Wave(LA)-0

2:00PM       Arizona Dodgers-1 vs.  Ca. Rockies(LA)-4

5:00PM       HOOTS Baseball-4 vs. Mudville from Washington-3

Results from Games on Thursday July 30:

11:00AM     AZ. Dodgers-1 vs. Mudville, Washington-2(Dodgers Eliminated)

11:00AM     AZ. Firebirds-5 vs Blue Wave 2(Blue Wave Eliminated)

2:00PM       Sonoma Rebels-1 vs. OC Renegades 8

5:00PM       HOOTS Baseball-0 vs. Ca. Rockies(LA) 2

Results from Games on Friday July 31:

11:00AM    Sonoma-4 vs. Mudville, Washington-6 (Sonoma Eliminated)

2:00PM      HOOTS-4 vs. Arizona Firebirds-3 (Arizona eliminated)

5:00PM.     OC Renegades-4 vs. Ca. Rockies(LA)-3 (Both Advance)

All games at Chabot College.

FOUR TEAMS REMAIN IN THE WEST REGION FOR THE BERTH IN THE CONNIE MACK WORLD SERIES!!!

Semi Final Games on Saturday August 1:

12:00        Mudville, Washinginto 0 vs Ca. Rockies 6 (LA) (Wa. Eliminated)

3:00PM.    HOOTS Baseball-8 vs Orange County Renegades-2     

All games at Chabot College.

Championship Games on Sunday August 2:

12:00 Noon  Orange County Renegades-3vs. Ca. Rockies(LA)-8

3:00PM         HOOTS 3   vs. Ca. Rockies (LA) 1 

HOOTS win the West Region Championshp !

Champion Advances to the Connie Mack World Series Sat. August 8 in Farmington, New Mexico

All Games at Chabot College

Trying to be the first Northern California Connie Mack team since 1959 to advance to the Connie Mack World Series fell on the shoulders of incoming senior left hand pitcher Michael Theofanopoulous as he pitched a complete game to defeat the California Rockies from Los Angeles in the Championship game of the Connie Mack Western Regional Tournament 3-1.  The victory sends the HOOTS to the World Series representing the West Region.  This is the HOOTS first trip to a Connie Mack World Series after being an American Legion program and winning the National Championship in 2000. 

With the game tied 1-1, the HOOTS failed to score in the bottom of the fourth with the bases loaded and no outs.  As this team has done all year they did not let that disappointment distract them and they moved on.  In the bottom of the fifth, Stephen Piscotty with two outs had a base hit, followed by a monster drive from incoming junior Chris Keck to right center for a triple to score Piscotty.  Keck was thrown out at home after a wild throw to third base.  Leading 2-1 in the bottom of the sixth Joey Epperson led off the inning with a home run over left field to put the HOOTS up 3-1.  In the top of the seventh, Theo got a quick fly ball for the first out, a strike out and a game ending fly ball to win the game.

Both teams played a great Championship game with a lot of class to complete a very well run Regional Championship.

The HOOTS will depart for the Connie Mack World Series on Thursday, August 6 and after opening ceremonies on Friday will begin play on Saturday at 7:30PM.

The HOOTS defeated the Orange County Renegades in the Semi Finals on Saturday 8-2 to advance to the Championship Game on Sunday at 3:00PM.  Andrew Kjar pitched 5 strong innings for the HOOTS and was relieved by Andy Eslick to finish the game against one of the top teams from Southern California and the west region. The offense scored 7 runs in the first and second innings to give the HOOTS some breathing room early in the game.  The Renegades came back strong in the fifth inning but with one out a fly ball out to Carter Loud and a great throw on a runner trying to score from 3rd ended the inning.

The HOOTS will face the winner of the 12:00 game between the OC Renegades and Ca. Rockies(LA). The Ca. Rockies defeated the Mudville Washington team earlier in the day 6-0.  The Ca. Rockies will play the Orange County Renegades at noon in an elimination game as required by AABC rules.

WOW! Friday was a Great HOOTS Day!!

The HOOTS advanced to the semi finals at the Connie Mack West Regionals after Stephen Piscotty pitched a complete game for the HOOTS in a 4-3 victory against the Arizona Firebirds who have been to the Connie Mack World Series 3 times in the past five years.  Both programs recognized as some of the best in the nation had a game for all to remember.  The HOOTS led early 2-0 only to see the lead diminish in the sixsth inning as the Firebirds went ahead 3-2 in the bottom half of the inning.  Trailing by two runs in the top of the seventh inning the HOOTS with two outs were able to get a key hit from Tino Liscomb, followed by a single by Piscotty, and a monster ground rule double by Chris Keck to score both runners and put the HOOTS in front 4-3. Piscotty went to the bottom half of the seventh and after a lead off push bunt single, was able to get a pick off out and retire the side without a threat to secure the win.

The victory leaves the HOOTS and only three other teams left in the west region who are battling for the Connie Mack World Series Berth.  The level of quality amateur baseball exceeds the expectations of college coach's and professional baseball scouts.  Connie Mack baseball is all wood bat and follows the American League professional baseball rules. This is an opportunity for people to see some of the best amateur teams and players from the western states.

The HOOTS face off Saturday August 1 at 3:00PM at Chabot College against the Orange County Renegades.   It pairs up one of Southern California's best Connie Mack teams against the top team in Northern California.  The two teams have met in the Connie Mack regional tournament in 2007 and are familiar with each other and their style of play.  Both programs are recognized as two of the top programs nationally on a consistent basis.  The Renegades are managed by Si Petro.

The HOOTS lost 2-0 in a winner bracket game at the Western Regional to the California Rockies from LA North Connie Mack League.  Mark Appel pitched seven strong innings for the HOOTS giving up only 4 hits while Rockies left hand pitcher Erik Salcido limited the HOOTS offense to 2 hits. The HOOTS face the Arizona Firebirds at Chabot College today at 2:00PM in an elimination game.

The Danville HOOTS won their first game at the 2009 Connie Mack West Regional Tournament against the Mudville Pinnacle the Washington State Champion in a tough extra inning game 4-3.  The HOOTS trailed Washington most of the game 1-0 as they battled through the game against Washington left hand pitcher Matt Boyd.  The HOOTS tied the game in the bottom of the sixth inning on an executed squeeze play, fell behind 3-1 in the top of seventh, and tied it up in the bottom of the inning to send the game into extra innings. The HOOTS finally won the game in the bottom of the ninth inning on a Chris Killeen single to score Brian Hamm from second base.  HOOTS left hand pitcher Michael Theofanopoulous got the victory for the HOOTS coming into the game in the third inning and pitch six very strong innings only giving up 2 runs.  Theo is an early committed scholarship player to the Cal Bears at the University of California, Berkeley. The HOOTS advance in the winner bracket on Thursday at 5:00PM against the Ca. Rockies from LA North County.

The Danville HOOTS arrived in Farmington, New Mexico for the Connie Mack World Series. Highlights are posted each day.

Thursday August 6:  A 6:00AM flight from Oakland and a 3 hour bus ride from Albuquerque to Farmington, New Mexico we finally arrived.  The bus was met a few miles outside of the city and provided a police escort into Farmington.  The players had the opportunity first to see Ricketts Stadium the site of all games.  A Beautiful field that seats 6,000 and every game is sold out through the tournament.

Players and coach's attended orientation, treated to a dance routine, lots of pictures from locals, and were provided a hamburger fry dinner.  The players met their host families who they will be staying with for the entire tournament.  The coaching staff was provided a Silverado for their use during the tournament. 

The HOOTS name continues to intrigue everyone here and received the honor of being recognized as the best amateur baseball name by the tournament directors.  Coach Johns has thanked everyone here during orientation as having the experience from other national tournaments for their organization and hospitality.

Friday August 7:

Farmington 'throws out the red carpet' was the quote of the day as the streets were lined deep with thousands of people for the annual parade to honor the 10 Connie Mack teams that are in the World Series.  Each team had a float provided for them and Western Refinery from Bloomfield was the host for the HOOTS.  Greatly decorated in the club colors of black, silver and white with the club slogan, "Champions Are Made When No One is Watching".  Large banners on the side with California HOOTS was a croud favorite.  The HOOTS had the honor to have the cheerleading squad from the local high school cheer for them on the float as they went down the long main street in Farmington.

The team finally found time for a short batting session and some field work prior to the official first games.  All 10 teams were on the field for the Opening Ceremony and were introduced to the capacity crowd.  Another well done event for everyone with honor guards.  Again, the announcers claimed "Now, I love this team and they have best name in baseball, the Danville HOOTS."  You remember these moments of this experience and every coach and player knows the honor of being here.

Saturday, August 8:

The HOOTS lost to the Midland Redskins 3-1 in their opening game at the Connie Mack World Series to a capacity crowd at Reckitt Stadium. The HOOTS loaded the bases in the first inning to score the only run of the game, and an outstanding catch off the wall in right field by Midland to end the inning, and a key single in the bottom of the sixth inning by Midland were the difference of winning and losing.  Left hand pitcher Michael Theofanopoulous of Danville pitched an outstanding game.  The HOOTS led early 1-0 and Midland tied the game up in the 3rd.  The game remained tied until the bottom of the sixth inning with two outs when Midland broke the tie with a key single to score the go ahead run.

Sunday August 9:

The HOOTS battled to the end in a 7-6 loss to the Dallas D Bat Mustangs in an elimination game at the Connie Mack World Series.  The HOOTS took an early 1-0 lead from a Chris Keck home run in the second inning.  The DBat's went ahead on a 3 run home run off starter Mark Appel in the fourth inning after a 3rd out strike out pass ball was not blocked and followed with another home run in the same inning.  The HOOTS came back to take a 6-4 lead in the fifth inning spurred by a squeez bunt play.  Dallas came back in the bottom of the sixth to take a lead 7-6.

The 2009 HOOTS season ended with a 42-9-1 record, a Connie Mack North Championship, and a Connie Mack West Region Championship and the honor to represent the West Region at the Connie Mack World Series that marks them as only the second team since 1959 to achieve that goal. 

In an interview with Coach Johns on local media stations his comments were "we will find a way to build our team with players to help us to get back to the Connie Mack World Series and Farmington." 

Richard Neely, President of AABC came to the field to compliment Coach Johns on the quality of the team, their play, and the way they represented the West Region during the World Series.  

The team will return to California on Monday with a summer of great memories. 

Earlier in the day the HOOTS host Janet Mackey from Western Refinery held a lunch for all the players and parents and foster parents to start the day.  In the afternoon the HOOTS and all teams attended the Connie Mack Home Run Derby.  Stephen Piscotty represented the HOOTS.

The game as expected was an exciting game between two very good nationally recognized programs both having a long history but faced each other for the first time.

Support is coming from many people and we thought we would share some of these with you.

From Nate Schierholtz, San Francisco Giants MLB:

"Donny-Congratulations on going to the Connie Mack World Series.  Thinking about you and the team.  The last trip to the American Legion World Series in 2001 was a lot of fun for me and the rest of the team.  Enjoy the ride and Good Luck."

From Dean Manderson,San Diego Gamers Baseball Club:

Congratulations on winning the Connie Mack Western Regional and advancing to the World Series. You guys are a class organization and we wish you the best in Farmington.  Good Luck!"

From Steve Trombly, Trombly Baseball SoCal:

"Congratulations on earning your way to the Connie Mack World Series.  The HOOTS are a great organization and whenever you aren't playing us I'm always rooting for you guys and wish you success.  Your team will be a great representative for the Western Region and I wish you luck.  Our team has been to Farmington twice and the experience is second to none.  Your players, coach's and parents will have memories from that week to last a life time.  Good luck Don and go get 'em."

From Mario Iglesias, Head First Gamers:

"Headfirst Bercovich hope the HOOTS continue a magical run in Farmington. I played there in 1991 for Bercovich and it is an experience I will never forget.This is great for Northern California Connie Mack and shows that in addition to the HOOTS being there all of us who are aspiring to make it there get to know what it takes to get there.  Best of luck."

From John Hughes, Northern California Professional Scouts Association:

"Don--on behalf of the NorCal Scouts Association I want to send out a big congrats and good luck to you and the rest of the HOOTS.  Thanks for making Northern California Baseball Proud. Nice going"

From Head Coach Dave Esquer, University of California Berkeley:

 "Congratulations, great job in getting your team to Farmington and the Connie Mack World Series.  That is awesome and a really great accomplishment, a big deal and good job and wanted you to know.

From Si Petro, Orange County Renegades:

"Congratulations to your club on a huge accomplishment.  It is really a great experience for your team and they are well deserving of this opportunity.  Best of luck and enjoy the experience of the Connie Mack World Series."

From Dave Manning, Delta Indians:

"Congratulations to you and your group.  You have a very special group and it was really exciting to watch you play and play against you.  It will really be a neat experience for you and your boys.  I wish you well and hope you can come back with a national championship ring." 

From Tony Crivello, NorCal Baseball:

"Congrats on winning the CM West.  Best of luck to you guys down in New Mexico.  We will be rooting for you."

From Dan Sozzi, EDH Vipers:

"Good luck in Farmington, I hope you guys win it all. That would be a great accomplishment with your American Legion Championship that you won.  Keep everyone posted and let your guys know the Vipers are rooting for you to win it all."

From Al Carrasco, Oakland Baseball Club:

"The Oakland Baseball Club is proud of the HOOTS for getting it done the right way. Congratulations to your players and coach's on your West Region Championship.  We wish you the best at the World Series and believe that you have what it takes to bring home the crown.  Go take it."

From your friends, Coach Joel and California Smoke:

"Congratulations to your team and coach's on your west regional championship.  Good luck at the World Series.

From Don Miller, Lafayette Generals:

"Don, congratulations! You have really put together a great program.  Good luck in Farmington...and enjoy the great facility and atmosphere!!

The HOOTS were honored this past week by the American Amateur Baseball Congress with the selection of the C.O. Brown Sportsmanship Award from the 2009 Connie Mack World Series. 

Coach Don Johns received the letter from Carol May, World Series Administrator with the following award and announcement.  "Congratulations on your team's selection as the winner of the C.O. Brown Sportmanship Award in the 2009 Connie Mack World Series.  I hope you found your experience in Farmington to be worthwhile."

"Enclosed you will find a trophy commemorating your acheivement.  It was a pleasure meeting you and I hope you and your team will be successful next year and will be making a return trip to Farmington."

SO DO WE AS THAT IS OUR GOAL !!!

The American Amateur Baseball Congress has awarded the 2009 WEST REGION COACH OF THE YEAR to Danville HOOTS Manager Don Johns.  The HOOTS won both State and West Regional Championships and became only the second team since 1959 from Northern California to acheive a West Region Championship in Connie Mack baseball and advance to the World Series in Farmington, New Mexico. This was the third year in a row for the HOOTS to win the North State Championship for Connie Mack Baseball and advance to the West Region tournament. The HOOTS finished their season with an overall record of 42-9-1.

In a recent interview Coach Johns acknowledged his coaching staff throughout the program for their success.  "I am not big on personal awards, so to me this award is recognition for our players who make the committment to be a HOOTS player and for our entire coaching staff who put so many hours into helping our players improve. I am proud of what we do and who we are and pleased that the AABC have recognized us for that."

"It is obvious I am very proud of this recognition when you consider the number of teams and outstanding coaching staffs that exist in the Western Region.  This is an organization award for the HOOTS program, and not a personal one."

After many of its years in American Legion Baseball the HOOTS joined AABC and the Connie Mack program four years ago to provide their players with a higher level of competition and exposure for the opportunty to play in a college program. 

The Danville HOOTS and Manager Don Johns were recognized by the Northern California Professional Baseball Scouts Association as the 2009 Summer Baseball Program of the Year.  The award was presented to Coach Johns at the annual scouts golf tournament and award ceremony on December 14 in Stockton by John Hughes from the Florida Marlins organization.  Coach Johns commented that "It always is an honor when you are recognized in baseball by baseball people for what you do, your organization, and what your players have accomplished. We had a special year and our players and coaching staff deserve this recognition for their acheivement. It didn't come without hard work."

Also receiving recognition that evening for his dedication to baseball and scouting was former Chabot College Coach and Houston Astros Scout Gene Wellman who was presented by major league coach Tim Ireland.  Recognized as the High School Coach of the Year was Pete Jensen(now retired) for his 2009 Championship season at Serra High School.  Coach Johns was joined by former SRVHS coach Rick Steen, Chabot College Coach Mike Reardon and retired Serra High School coach Pete Jensen who all have been friends throughout their coaching careers.