By John Quinlan.
Due to the tragedy of the 35W Bridge Collapse, the recap of last Monday night's game will be included in this week's game recap.
Well ECC Softball fans, the final two weeks of the season can be summed up as "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly". On 7/30, the Covenanters took on the Catholics from St. John's Church looking for a split of the season series after a 15-7 loss in early June. As the visiting team, the Johnnies jumped on pitcher Kyle Small with six runs all after two were out (there were a score of errors besides). ECC bounced right back with four tallies of their own in the bottom of the frame to narrow the gap to 6-4. After a scoreless second, St. Johns touched up again for 7 more runs in the top of the third. Those runs proved to be the difference as ECC valiantly continued to peck away, but couldn't overcome the two big innings as the final score was St. Johns 15 ECC 11. Despite not coming all the way back, the men of ECC did have some memorable moments. Brian Wiersma continued to flex his muscles with a majestic 3 run homer in the third inning. Coach John Quinlan led off the second inning with a single to left, but he got a bit greedy and was thrown out trying to stretch that single into a double. The highlight of the night was turned in by Steve Anderson who hit an rbi "swinging bunt" double in the fourth inning that managed to elude the charging shortstop and trickle out to short left field. A great effort that came up a little short.
The final contest of the year, on 8/6, was against the service men of Tonka Mens Club. After two straight weeks of 90 degree heat with high humidity, Mother Nature provided the teams and their loyal fans a comfortable 80 degree evening for softball. With 14 players, including an appearance by Luke Wiersma who was visiting from North Dakota, Coach Quinlan had more than enough position options to choose from this final night. The Covenanters jumped out right away in the top of the first with 6 runs that were highlighted by Tom Talmo's ringing 2 run triple to right centerfield. The guys really had their bats cooking this night as they scored 7 in the top of the third frame thanks to a bases clearing double by Steve Anderson that carried over the left fielder's head and all the way to the fence. Unfortunately, the game was cut short after 5 innings due to the 12 run mercy rule. Final Score: ECC 14 TMC 1. The Men of ECC Softball finished the 2007 season with a record of 8-12.
As the coach of this fine group of Christian men, I would like to thank each and every member of this year's team for giving me everything they had each and every week. I would also like to thank the numerous fans that showed up each week to lend their support and enthusiasm. See you in 2008!
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Hot Night, Cold Bats by John Quinlan
Hot Night, Cold Bats by John Quinlan
The headline tells it all ECC Softball fans. On a humid Monday night at Freeman Park, your local 11 men of the diamond dropped both games of the doubleheader to run their record to 7-11. The first game was against the young guns called the Mudhens and it turned out to be a rare pitcher's duel until the late innings. In the first inning, each team darkened their score books with a run; however, ECC did start out with the bases loaded and no outs, so the game could have been blown open right off the bat. Then, in the bottom of the sixth and the Mudhens up 3-1, the covenanters finally solved the five infield defensive alignment and sent 8 men to the plate while scoring 3 times to take a brief one run lead. The inning was highlighted by a Brian Wiersma laser beam double that shook the left field fence and scored brother Andy all the way from first base by the young Wiersma athletically avoiding the catcher's tag at home. It is too hard to put into words this play, but it involved being airbone horizontally. The top of the final frame saw the Mudhens bounce back with 3 runs of their own when the strong ECC defense showed some vulnerability. Unfortunately, those were the last runs of the game as ECC mounted a two out rally, but couldn't cross home plate in the home half of the seventh. Final score: Mudhens 6 ECC 4.
The second game of the doubleheader, against St. Therese, wasn't as exciting. The Catholic squad went yard twice, both with 2 ducks on the pond, and handled ECC 11-2. Councilman Steve Adams pitched his final games of the season, so he can use the offseason to heal up after taking a wicked line drive off his leg in the first game. It was good to have Kyle Small, back from vacation, handling third base and batting in the number two spot of the order and for the first time this year, David Soliday made an appearance and played a stellar right side of the outfield. Thanks to everybody that attended and battled the steamy conditions.
Only one game next week as we begin to wind down this 2007 campaign. Freeman Park 6:30. Hope to see you there.
The headline tells it all ECC Softball fans. On a humid Monday night at Freeman Park, your local 11 men of the diamond dropped both games of the doubleheader to run their record to 7-11. The first game was against the young guns called the Mudhens and it turned out to be a rare pitcher's duel until the late innings. In the first inning, each team darkened their score books with a run; however, ECC did start out with the bases loaded and no outs, so the game could have been blown open right off the bat. Then, in the bottom of the sixth and the Mudhens up 3-1, the covenanters finally solved the five infield defensive alignment and sent 8 men to the plate while scoring 3 times to take a brief one run lead. The inning was highlighted by a Brian Wiersma laser beam double that shook the left field fence and scored brother Andy all the way from first base by the young Wiersma athletically avoiding the catcher's tag at home. It is too hard to put into words this play, but it involved being airbone horizontally. The top of the final frame saw the Mudhens bounce back with 3 runs of their own when the strong ECC defense showed some vulnerability. Unfortunately, those were the last runs of the game as ECC mounted a two out rally, but couldn't cross home plate in the home half of the seventh. Final score: Mudhens 6 ECC 4.
The second game of the doubleheader, against St. Therese, wasn't as exciting. The Catholic squad went yard twice, both with 2 ducks on the pond, and handled ECC 11-2. Councilman Steve Adams pitched his final games of the season, so he can use the offseason to heal up after taking a wicked line drive off his leg in the first game. It was good to have Kyle Small, back from vacation, handling third base and batting in the number two spot of the order and for the first time this year, David Soliday made an appearance and played a stellar right side of the outfield. Thanks to everybody that attended and battled the steamy conditions.
Only one game next week as we begin to wind down this 2007 campaign. Freeman Park 6:30. Hope to see you there.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
A Tough Way To Lose - July 16
by Staff Writer, and soon to be chief writer, John Quinlan
Well, ECC fans as you can tell by the headline, our guys were unable to even their record at 8-8 Monday night against Westwood Church at beautiful Excelsior Commons. Final Score: Westwood 12 Excelsior Covenant Church 11. Unfortunately, the game ended on a controversial appeal at second base involving Brian Wiersma and resulted in a heated discussion with the umpire. With one out, in the bottom of the seventh, and men on first and second, Jeff Causton hit a deep drive to left field that was initially bobbled but was eventually caught by the Westwood defender. Brian Wiersma appeared to tag up from second base and head towards third representing the tying run. As soon as Brian hit third base, Westwood asked the umpire for an appeal because they felt that he left second base too early. As you probably already guessed, the appeal worked and the game was over. A stunned and disappointed Wiersma, along with some of the other ECC players, tried to explain to the umpire that Brian did properly tag up before advancing to third base, but the man in blue saw it differently. Despite this questionable call, the game did feature a great effort by the Covenanters. Steve Logan, a game time pitching decsion, recovered nicely from a rough first inning and the versatile Mike Mrosko made some nice plays at the hot corner filling in for the vacationing Kyle Small and Brian Everett. The long ball was also on display Monday evening courtesy of the Wiersma family as Brian hit two mammoth drives to left field and brother Andy tallied a 2 run round tripper in that faithful bottom of the seventh.
Let's hope next week's doubleheader at Freeman Park (6:30 & 7:30) will produce a better outcome for our beloved men of Excelsior Covenant Church. Hope to see you there.
Former chief writer, Kyle small, would like to thank John for writing the updates for the blog during my time away. His wiritng ability is exceptional, and he desrves to be promoted to chief writer...at least I still have third base.....i think....
Well, ECC fans as you can tell by the headline, our guys were unable to even their record at 8-8 Monday night against Westwood Church at beautiful Excelsior Commons. Final Score: Westwood 12 Excelsior Covenant Church 11. Unfortunately, the game ended on a controversial appeal at second base involving Brian Wiersma and resulted in a heated discussion with the umpire. With one out, in the bottom of the seventh, and men on first and second, Jeff Causton hit a deep drive to left field that was initially bobbled but was eventually caught by the Westwood defender. Brian Wiersma appeared to tag up from second base and head towards third representing the tying run. As soon as Brian hit third base, Westwood asked the umpire for an appeal because they felt that he left second base too early. As you probably already guessed, the appeal worked and the game was over. A stunned and disappointed Wiersma, along with some of the other ECC players, tried to explain to the umpire that Brian did properly tag up before advancing to third base, but the man in blue saw it differently. Despite this questionable call, the game did feature a great effort by the Covenanters. Steve Logan, a game time pitching decsion, recovered nicely from a rough first inning and the versatile Mike Mrosko made some nice plays at the hot corner filling in for the vacationing Kyle Small and Brian Everett. The long ball was also on display Monday evening courtesy of the Wiersma family as Brian hit two mammoth drives to left field and brother Andy tallied a 2 run round tripper in that faithful bottom of the seventh.
Let's hope next week's doubleheader at Freeman Park (6:30 & 7:30) will produce a better outcome for our beloved men of Excelsior Covenant Church. Hope to see you there.
Former chief writer, Kyle small, would like to thank John for writing the updates for the blog during my time away. His wiritng ability is exceptional, and he desrves to be promoted to chief writer...at least I still have third base.....i think....
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Business as usual for the ECC Softball Team by Staff Writer and HEad Coach John Quinlan
Great thanks goes to Head Coach and eccsoftball.com staff writer, John Quinlan, for his exquisite writing ability and game summary.
Business as usual for the ECC Softball Team. Two games = one win and one loss. As you know the schedule makers were not on our side as we had to play Our Savior Lutheran two weeks in a row. The last game ended with ECC prevailing in a tight contest 8-6 at Freeman Park. This week, the Lutherans got their revenge easlily handling the Covenanters 18-4 at Excelsior Commons. Councilman Steve Adams was back on the rubber as he made his every other week appearance. The ECC bats didn't wake up until the second game of the doubleheader which featured a big fly from our big guy and a game winning rbi from the new guy. Playing Faith Presbyterian Church for the only time this year, Brian Wiersma ended a nearly two month homerless drought by hitting a 3 run dinger in the top of the first inning to start the scoring. Brian Everett, playing third base in place of the vacationing Kyle Small, turned a nifty 5-3 double play. Then in the top of the sixth, with the score 9-5 in favor of ECC, Tom Talmo's son Clint, playing for only his second week, hit a 2 run triple into right center field. This proved to be the winning rbis as the final score was Excelsior Covenanat 11 Faith Presbyterian 9. Unfortunately, there were a few injuries to report. Scrappy veteran Tim Carlson suffered another setback with his calf and Kit Housh showed up to play but he was limited due to his nagging hamstring.
Only one game next week (7/16) as ECC looks to even their record at 8-8. Hope you can make it to Excelsior Commons at 6:30.
Business as usual for the ECC Softball Team. Two games = one win and one loss. As you know the schedule makers were not on our side as we had to play Our Savior Lutheran two weeks in a row. The last game ended with ECC prevailing in a tight contest 8-6 at Freeman Park. This week, the Lutherans got their revenge easlily handling the Covenanters 18-4 at Excelsior Commons. Councilman Steve Adams was back on the rubber as he made his every other week appearance. The ECC bats didn't wake up until the second game of the doubleheader which featured a big fly from our big guy and a game winning rbi from the new guy. Playing Faith Presbyterian Church for the only time this year, Brian Wiersma ended a nearly two month homerless drought by hitting a 3 run dinger in the top of the first inning to start the scoring. Brian Everett, playing third base in place of the vacationing Kyle Small, turned a nifty 5-3 double play. Then in the top of the sixth, with the score 9-5 in favor of ECC, Tom Talmo's son Clint, playing for only his second week, hit a 2 run triple into right center field. This proved to be the winning rbis as the final score was Excelsior Covenanat 11 Faith Presbyterian 9. Unfortunately, there were a few injuries to report. Scrappy veteran Tim Carlson suffered another setback with his calf and Kit Housh showed up to play but he was limited due to his nagging hamstring.
Only one game next week (7/16) as ECC looks to even their record at 8-8. Hope you can make it to Excelsior Commons at 6:30.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Big Defense and some bigger bats
Another split night for the Excelsior Covenant Team. The first game was against the only undefeated team in the league. THe final score was 4-1 (ECC losing) with few hits and big defensive plays. With the one exception of our good friend, and soon departed Brian Board, there were few errors. Unfortunately, Board misjudged the distance of a fly ball that went just over his head. More exciting (and redeeming), he caught a fly ball with an extended back - we were going to give him a gift certificate to our friend, Mike Isaacson at South Lake Chiropractic (a healer, if I may), but since Board is leaving for Seattle in a week, we decided to go on the cheap and simply mention him in the blog.
No big hits this game, but the gloves were hot. Wiersma (Andy) was quick on the glove at shortstop picking up anything between 2 and 3 (the third baseman needed an extra foot of ability). Wiersma grabbed one at the grass and hurled it to first for the final out of the inning. THirdbaseman, Small, did a fine job at third thanks to the encouragement of his team. He almost forced a 5(UA)-3 double play, but the ump wasn't watching as closely as Small would have liked...
Steve Adams was at the mound for both games, and he held a close game at 4-1. Welcome Back Steve (don't leave again!)
The second game was even more exciting. The defense continued playing tough, and the bats were on fire. Andy Wiersma (the youger brother of Brian) had two big homeruns! We are waiting for next week for Brian's big bat appearance. Tom Talmo is a hot bat with quick speed. He always gets to first and is around the corner by the time most of our team would be leaving homeplate (especially Mrosko). Speakking of Mike, he went opposite field twice for multipl RBIs, and did well hustling in Right-center field. A fine performance in front of his two children and wife.
Jon Volling was another hot bat with consecutive base hits - unfortunately late in the game, Kyle hit a big double (with an attempt at triple) and sent john sliding into home...Kyle failed to listen ot the base coaches yelling "stop" at second base...thanks John for taking it for the team (Had Kyle stopped at second, he would have been driven home by Wiersma's second homerun...impatience is never splendid!)
The game ended early as ECC pulled in a few runs for a final score of 19-6.
As always, a big shout out for the fans! We had a large crowd at mini-Wrigley, including Nancy, Emma and Annie Carlson supporting Tim. The new baby's Ashlyn, Lauren and Micah James attended with great grunts and yawns...Mary and Pete Studer came down from the hill to enjoy the show, and the Clawson's happened to arrive at the end of the game after enjoying a delicious dinner at 318, where their daughter Katie (sp) serves most graciously.
Finally, Coach Quinlan continues to organize a great team. Thank you for all the work you put into the team and the encouragement you offer.
Look forward to seeing everyone on Monday at Freeman fields at 7:30 (note that there is only one game this week).
No big hits this game, but the gloves were hot. Wiersma (Andy) was quick on the glove at shortstop picking up anything between 2 and 3 (the third baseman needed an extra foot of ability). Wiersma grabbed one at the grass and hurled it to first for the final out of the inning. THirdbaseman, Small, did a fine job at third thanks to the encouragement of his team. He almost forced a 5(UA)-3 double play, but the ump wasn't watching as closely as Small would have liked...
Steve Adams was at the mound for both games, and he held a close game at 4-1. Welcome Back Steve (don't leave again!)
The second game was even more exciting. The defense continued playing tough, and the bats were on fire. Andy Wiersma (the youger brother of Brian) had two big homeruns! We are waiting for next week for Brian's big bat appearance. Tom Talmo is a hot bat with quick speed. He always gets to first and is around the corner by the time most of our team would be leaving homeplate (especially Mrosko). Speakking of Mike, he went opposite field twice for multipl RBIs, and did well hustling in Right-center field. A fine performance in front of his two children and wife.
Jon Volling was another hot bat with consecutive base hits - unfortunately late in the game, Kyle hit a big double (with an attempt at triple) and sent john sliding into home...Kyle failed to listen ot the base coaches yelling "stop" at second base...thanks John for taking it for the team (Had Kyle stopped at second, he would have been driven home by Wiersma's second homerun...impatience is never splendid!)
The game ended early as ECC pulled in a few runs for a final score of 19-6.
As always, a big shout out for the fans! We had a large crowd at mini-Wrigley, including Nancy, Emma and Annie Carlson supporting Tim. The new baby's Ashlyn, Lauren and Micah James attended with great grunts and yawns...Mary and Pete Studer came down from the hill to enjoy the show, and the Clawson's happened to arrive at the end of the game after enjoying a delicious dinner at 318, where their daughter Katie (sp) serves most graciously.
Finally, Coach Quinlan continues to organize a great team. Thank you for all the work you put into the team and the encouragement you offer.
Look forward to seeing everyone on Monday at Freeman fields at 7:30 (note that there is only one game this week).
Monday, June 25, 2007
The Schedule Link works
I have finally corrected the softball schedule link on the right side of the page. Try it out.
See you tonight at Wrigley Field, I mean Excelsior commons - 7 and 8 pm.
See you tonight at Wrigley Field, I mean Excelsior commons - 7 and 8 pm.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Thank you to our visiting player
A big thank you to Jordan FromWisconsin (I think that was his name). And to Brian Everett who brought his friend, Jordan, to play with us.
Come back, anytime (and bring the bat).
Come back, anytime (and bring the bat).
A Short Walk Home...and we beat the Baptists
Well tonight was bittersweet.
The first game was a doozy, and we lost 25-9. Councilman Steve Adams was no where to be found, so Kyle had to step to the mound for another double-header (all of our games are double-headers). Kyle decided to let the opposing team start off easy, so he walked several batters, only to have Bruno hit a grand slam - finally a perfect pitch, followed by a perfect bat! TO Kyle's defense (the Sportswriter saw the whole thing) - the winds were blowing 30 mph across the plate, and pitching was less than an easy endeavor on this beautiful, yet windy, summer evening.
The game quickly progressed in the same direction. After a 7-run first inning, the team finished all three of their home runs in the following at bats (each team has three home runs - after this each homerun is an out). It was a long first inning, especially if you were on defense watching the pitcher continually walk players around the bases. (Sadly to say, the pitcher was furious that the opposing team wouldn't swing when the pitches were close...)
There was a highlight - Anderson struck out with two beautiful swings that slightly missed the ball (he made up for the strikeouts in the second game).
It was a breath of fresh air when the game was over and we could move to field 4 to play Ridgewood Church (the church formerly known as Minnetonka Baptist).
The second game turned out much better. First of all, Kyle struck out the first batter as he watched the third strike blow by him. (Kyle had 4 strikeouts on the evening - two were backwards Ks and since I cant figure out how to do a backwards K on the computer, I simply have to expain it)...
There were several triples in the game - from Brian Everett, Brian Wiersma, Jordan from Wisconsin, and Kyle Small. Jordan from Wisconsin had an in-the-park-homerun, which was cause for great celebration. THe bats were alive in this game, and in the fourth inning, everyone but two players crossed home plate. We won the game 13-3.
The play of the night, however, was the defensive Unassissted Double Play by Sir Brian Everett ( he looks like a royal-family type fellow). Brian was playing first base, and Ridgewood had runners on the corner. The batter hit a high line drive down the first base side, and Brian grabbed it as the runner on first was trying to get back to base. However, in the split second that Brian caught the ball, he tagged the runner, and we joyously walked back to the dugout, as Brian, single-handedly turned a double-play. Good job Brian - you daughter and wife are proud. (Brian had several representatives at the game, including his wife, daughter, Mother and father-in-law, and his dog (who appears to be needing obedience lessons from Tom Talmo).
Speaking of Tom Talmo, who came out with a consistent swing of singles. Tom is our all-star histler. He hits the ball weekly, and runs around the bases despite sprained and strained ligaments in several areas of his body. Tough work, Tom!
We had a good night, and it was good to see us end the evening on a high note. NExt week we play the only undefeated team and Haggerty's painting. The best part is that the game is located on our own Wrigley Field in downtwon Excelsior. Come and join us for a slug fest!
As always we want to thank out fans - a long list that includes: TIna and Adrienned Quinlan, and grandparents Steve and Pam Pitts. Harlan and MArgie Swanson, THle Wiersmas (and dog), Debbie Talmo and Jackie and Ashlyn Everett, Connie Volling, Tricia, Patrick, and Freddie Stolz (Patrick cheered from the sidelines tonight - see you next week in uniform?), Jaci, Rachel and Jacob Mrosko (and a grandparent, I believe), Jessie and Lauren Volling, And the Jones', who its always hard to keep up with - good to see you Dave, Diane and Andy. The list goes on, and we thank the growing group of fans, who continually come out to support the team.
The first game was a doozy, and we lost 25-9. Councilman Steve Adams was no where to be found, so Kyle had to step to the mound for another double-header (all of our games are double-headers). Kyle decided to let the opposing team start off easy, so he walked several batters, only to have Bruno hit a grand slam - finally a perfect pitch, followed by a perfect bat! TO Kyle's defense (the Sportswriter saw the whole thing) - the winds were blowing 30 mph across the plate, and pitching was less than an easy endeavor on this beautiful, yet windy, summer evening.
The game quickly progressed in the same direction. After a 7-run first inning, the team finished all three of their home runs in the following at bats (each team has three home runs - after this each homerun is an out). It was a long first inning, especially if you were on defense watching the pitcher continually walk players around the bases. (Sadly to say, the pitcher was furious that the opposing team wouldn't swing when the pitches were close...)
There was a highlight - Anderson struck out with two beautiful swings that slightly missed the ball (he made up for the strikeouts in the second game).
It was a breath of fresh air when the game was over and we could move to field 4 to play Ridgewood Church (the church formerly known as Minnetonka Baptist).
The second game turned out much better. First of all, Kyle struck out the first batter as he watched the third strike blow by him. (Kyle had 4 strikeouts on the evening - two were backwards Ks and since I cant figure out how to do a backwards K on the computer, I simply have to expain it)...
There were several triples in the game - from Brian Everett, Brian Wiersma, Jordan from Wisconsin, and Kyle Small. Jordan from Wisconsin had an in-the-park-homerun, which was cause for great celebration. THe bats were alive in this game, and in the fourth inning, everyone but two players crossed home plate. We won the game 13-3.
The play of the night, however, was the defensive Unassissted Double Play by Sir Brian Everett ( he looks like a royal-family type fellow). Brian was playing first base, and Ridgewood had runners on the corner. The batter hit a high line drive down the first base side, and Brian grabbed it as the runner on first was trying to get back to base. However, in the split second that Brian caught the ball, he tagged the runner, and we joyously walked back to the dugout, as Brian, single-handedly turned a double-play. Good job Brian - you daughter and wife are proud. (Brian had several representatives at the game, including his wife, daughter, Mother and father-in-law, and his dog (who appears to be needing obedience lessons from Tom Talmo).
Speaking of Tom Talmo, who came out with a consistent swing of singles. Tom is our all-star histler. He hits the ball weekly, and runs around the bases despite sprained and strained ligaments in several areas of his body. Tough work, Tom!
We had a good night, and it was good to see us end the evening on a high note. NExt week we play the only undefeated team and Haggerty's painting. The best part is that the game is located on our own Wrigley Field in downtwon Excelsior. Come and join us for a slug fest!
As always we want to thank out fans - a long list that includes: TIna and Adrienned Quinlan, and grandparents Steve and Pam Pitts. Harlan and MArgie Swanson, THle Wiersmas (and dog), Debbie Talmo and Jackie and Ashlyn Everett, Connie Volling, Tricia, Patrick, and Freddie Stolz (Patrick cheered from the sidelines tonight - see you next week in uniform?), Jaci, Rachel and Jacob Mrosko (and a grandparent, I believe), Jessie and Lauren Volling, And the Jones', who its always hard to keep up with - good to see you Dave, Diane and Andy. The list goes on, and we thank the growing group of fans, who continually come out to support the team.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Temporary Delay...
Much apologies from the Sports Writing staff. Our main (and only) writer suffered illness and a family miracle this past week during the regular writing schedule.
Last Monday's game, however, may be something we wish to leave unscripted. After the prior weeks hard hitting, solid fielding turnout, this past Monday was a real question. We lost both games, suffered weak hitting, and difficult fielding. No need to recap the specifics.
Unfortunately, we did suffer one injury. Super Steve Anderson came out to play a terrific game in right field, but following a few innings, he suffered some pain in the arm and needed to sit out the rest of the night. We look forward to his return in the coming weeks.
All that to say, we had a great fan turn out. Leading the fans - as always - the beautiful princess, Adirenne Quinlan and mother, Tina. Adrienne always comes with her classy sunglasses and comfy seating. Even when we don't mention it, we always appreciate the Quinlans support! Adrienned brought her grandma and grandpa out to supprt the team. Her grandpa, our very own Pastor Steve decided to celebrate the day after his 60th birthday with us. congratulations!
Before the team packed up and went home, we sang a quick round of Happy Birthday for our right-center fielder, Jeff Causton. His birthday was on Tuesday, June 12. Below is a picture of Jeff with his beautiful daughter.
Between the last game and the upcoming game, we are happy to announce that though Kyle Small's hitting streak ended at 11 for 12, his wife gave birth to their son - future third baseman and number 2 hitter for Minnetrista Covenant Church (the future church plant of Excelsior Covenant Church), Micah James Small (and the crowd goes wild!!!!!!!!)
Last Monday's game, however, may be something we wish to leave unscripted. After the prior weeks hard hitting, solid fielding turnout, this past Monday was a real question. We lost both games, suffered weak hitting, and difficult fielding. No need to recap the specifics.
Unfortunately, we did suffer one injury. Super Steve Anderson came out to play a terrific game in right field, but following a few innings, he suffered some pain in the arm and needed to sit out the rest of the night. We look forward to his return in the coming weeks.
All that to say, we had a great fan turn out. Leading the fans - as always - the beautiful princess, Adirenne Quinlan and mother, Tina. Adrienne always comes with her classy sunglasses and comfy seating. Even when we don't mention it, we always appreciate the Quinlans support! Adrienned brought her grandma and grandpa out to supprt the team. Her grandpa, our very own Pastor Steve decided to celebrate the day after his 60th birthday with us. congratulations!
Before the team packed up and went home, we sang a quick round of Happy Birthday for our right-center fielder, Jeff Causton. His birthday was on Tuesday, June 12. Below is a picture of Jeff with his beautiful daughter.
Between the last game and the upcoming game, we are happy to announce that though Kyle Small's hitting streak ended at 11 for 12, his wife gave birth to their son - future third baseman and number 2 hitter for Minnetrista Covenant Church (the future church plant of Excelsior Covenant Church), Micah James Small (and the crowd goes wild!!!!!!!!)
Monday, June 4, 2007
A fine defensive show
During a beautiful evening at Freeman field, Excelsior Covenant split two games. The first game was a face-off between fellow evangelicals, Westwood. The game started off well with a two run homer by Andy Wiersma in honor of his mother and father (who attend almost every game). Besides his homerun, Andy had a stellar evening at shortstop leaping through the air, falling on his back, and soaring into the outfiled as a fine defensive show.
We entered the last inning of the first game down 12-10, which was the final score. Our rookie of the evening was Youth Pastor Steve Anderson, also known as Super, who joined us following his finishing up the semester at Bethel Seminary. The second game went quite well for Super, who had several hits and fine catches in the outfiled. Unfortunately, he ended the first game for the team with an alarming "swing-n'a-miss." To date, both pastoral members of the team have had stikeouts that call forth laughter and humiliation. In the end, we played an excellent game against Westwood - and in good evangelical style, no one drank, smoke or cursed, or so the record shows.
The second game was better. We played TMC, Tonka Men's Club, and we came out with big bats and better gloves. Our defensive efforts continue to improve throughout the weeks, and it is worth saying that the Twins farm team is looking at our second baseman, shortstop and left-fielder for potential contracts.
We turned one double-play, had a tag-out on an attempted double, and barely missed any fly balls. Excellent gloves, indeed.
We won the secind game by an easy ten runs, and again, I have forgotten the exact score. (POst the score int he comments if you remember it).
Kit Housch came out tonight with a big stick, pushing the ball far out into both left and center field. Brian Wiersma poked a major blast to left-center, hauling in two runs on a triple. Steve Anderson corrected his swing and had several fine hits. And John Quinlan made a dash of a run to first base, but was called out - the play is still under review.
We all came out to play hard tonight, and that we did. Unfortunately, we did have an injury - catcher and one of our lightning speed, base-hitters, Tim Carlson, pulled that muscle that sits on the front side of the leg, just above the knee - it might be called a hamstring. Andy Wiersma should have injuries, but he is still young enough to fall on his back and not break any bones.
Pastor Kyle stepped in and pitched two games in Steve Adams' absence. Kyle not only took the mound but batted 8-8 with a double; he crossed the plate six times which says something about the batters following him. It is worht noting that following last the May games, Coach John Quinlan was pondering moving Kyle out of the number 2 spot, as he was failing to connect at the plate, yet since Kyle was forced to pitch tonight, Coach didn't want to place too many difficulties on him. Obviously, Kyle has regained his position at number 2 - he better not screw it up.
In the end, it was a beautiful night - the sun broke through the rain, and a splendid time we had.
Thank you to the many fans that attended the game, including Ashley and Lauren's mothers, as well as Lauren's grandmother. Brian Wiersma's wife was there, as was the Mrosko family. The Folwick's stopped by to cheer us on, and a young boy named Jack, who was just there to watch stayed for the full two games. Great thanks to the Wiersma parents, Dan and Carleen for coming out to support their boys and the entire team! Thank you to all the fans who support the team, both in person and afar.
We look forward to seeing you next week, again at Freeman Field at 6:30 and 7:30 pm.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Week 2 - Nice weather, one homer, and a big crowd
Week 2 was similar to week one. We again split the evening, winning the first game and losing the second. We moved locations and played at Freeman fields, off of Eureka and Highway 7.
The first game was a back and forth after the third inning. We had a 6-2 lead, but the opposing team (Haggerty's painting) tied the game in the third inning. We fought back and forth for the remaining of the game, and we ended up closing out the seventh inning with a score of 10-9. The highlights of the game include the participation of two new fathers, Brian Everett (mother Jackie, daughter - Ashlyn, 10 days) and John Volling (mother Jessie, dauther Lauren, 5 days). Other highlights include the appearance of Steve Adams at the mound for the first time and the reappearance of the "Freak" bat generously loaned to the team by Steve Simmons.
The second game was an excellent show of sportsmanship, except by the firstbaseman, Kyle Small, who watched a called second strike while seeking an easy walk. Thank God this is not a beer league, otherwise he would have been buying. Though we lost 5-3, we played the young and athletic Minnetonka Baseball team from 2004, now called the Mudhens - not a bad showing!
The highlights include the first homerun of the season by Brian Wiersma just left of centerfield. An excellent poke! Tim Carlson, a speedy quick athlete, unfortunately pulled a hamstring on his way to first base. Carlson also took one for the team as he smashed his body into the fence cathcing a pop-foul ball. Other highlights include Jeff Causton's power-breaking bat, rocketing several shots the distance, albeit in foul territory.
Finally, the biggest highlight was the show of support from the fans. A group of 12 or more gathered around to cheer on the team. Included in this mix were several children, including future short stop of the 2027 ECC co-ed team, ten-day old Ashlyn Everett. Thanks for coming out to support the team!
Another great evening for softball and a great turnout by ECC! We have the next two weeks off to recover our ligaments, and I think that we will need it. Softball practice is on Sunday at 2pm at Kerber field. Until June 4...
Feel free to post comments relaying what you saw or notes of encouragement to players or the entire team.
The first game was a back and forth after the third inning. We had a 6-2 lead, but the opposing team (Haggerty's painting) tied the game in the third inning. We fought back and forth for the remaining of the game, and we ended up closing out the seventh inning with a score of 10-9. The highlights of the game include the participation of two new fathers, Brian Everett (mother Jackie, daughter - Ashlyn, 10 days) and John Volling (mother Jessie, dauther Lauren, 5 days). Other highlights include the appearance of Steve Adams at the mound for the first time and the reappearance of the "Freak" bat generously loaned to the team by Steve Simmons.
The second game was an excellent show of sportsmanship, except by the firstbaseman, Kyle Small, who watched a called second strike while seeking an easy walk. Thank God this is not a beer league, otherwise he would have been buying. Though we lost 5-3, we played the young and athletic Minnetonka Baseball team from 2004, now called the Mudhens - not a bad showing!
The highlights include the first homerun of the season by Brian Wiersma just left of centerfield. An excellent poke! Tim Carlson, a speedy quick athlete, unfortunately pulled a hamstring on his way to first base. Carlson also took one for the team as he smashed his body into the fence cathcing a pop-foul ball. Other highlights include Jeff Causton's power-breaking bat, rocketing several shots the distance, albeit in foul territory.
Finally, the biggest highlight was the show of support from the fans. A group of 12 or more gathered around to cheer on the team. Included in this mix were several children, including future short stop of the 2027 ECC co-ed team, ten-day old Ashlyn Everett. Thanks for coming out to support the team!
Another great evening for softball and a great turnout by ECC! We have the next two weeks off to recover our ligaments, and I think that we will need it. Softball practice is on Sunday at 2pm at Kerber field. Until June 4...
Feel free to post comments relaying what you saw or notes of encouragement to players or the entire team.
Week 1
When we arrived at the field, the rain had just ended, and the entire infield was a pool. We spent our warm up time removing the lagoons at first and third base.
We ended the evening at Excelsior Commons (our own miniature version of Wrigley Field) at 1-1. We won the first game 15-12, even though we were ahead 15-5 going into the last inning. Chuck did an excellent job pitching, and we had hot bats throughout the game.
Injuries: Tom Talmo pulled a hamstring, quad and calf in the same leg. Despite this he hit well and is speedy quick. The entire team showed up for the first game ready to go, and we had an excellent start.
The second game of the evening was less than the first. I know that we lost, but I have fortunately forgotten the score. Our bats were not as hot, our pitcher was a rookie at best, and we just didn't produce the same amount of steam for the second game. I think that it was a combination of long sleeves and poor bat selection. We are in contact with Louisville Slugger for a possible sponsorship contract.
No injuries, no homers, but nice jersies!
We ended the evening at Excelsior Commons (our own miniature version of Wrigley Field) at 1-1. We won the first game 15-12, even though we were ahead 15-5 going into the last inning. Chuck did an excellent job pitching, and we had hot bats throughout the game.
Injuries: Tom Talmo pulled a hamstring, quad and calf in the same leg. Despite this he hit well and is speedy quick. The entire team showed up for the first game ready to go, and we had an excellent start.
The second game of the evening was less than the first. I know that we lost, but I have fortunately forgotten the score. Our bats were not as hot, our pitcher was a rookie at best, and we just didn't produce the same amount of steam for the second game. I think that it was a combination of long sleeves and poor bat selection. We are in contact with Louisville Slugger for a possible sponsorship contract.
No injuries, no homers, but nice jersies!
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