Tournaments and Friends

I can remember several years ago when my parents and I would follow my brothers and their baseball teams all over Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky to play in tournaments. My brothers teams were pretty awesome back then and we would usually end up playing in the championship game each weekend.

This past weekend was a little different in several different ways. One, Patrick's team didn't get to play in the championship game. Two, I think I actually enjoyed being at a baseball diamond all day Saturday. Three, new friendships were made and old friendships were made stronger.

Nice hat Greg!


We left Crothersville at 8AM and traveled to Mitchell. Unlike the past, Saturday was just a four team tournament. Crothersville vs Mitchell, followed by Shakamak against Clarksville. Following the opening two games, the consolation game would be played, followed by the championship game. Regardless, we were guaranteed two games.

Our first game was over too quickly as we were defeated 11-1 in six innings.

During my brothers baseball years, the parents of the players would always get together and plan the meal for the day. We still do that today! Ham, turkey, bologna and cheese sandwiches, potato salad, cookies, chips, drinks, apples, bananas, etc. Basically, you name it, someone has probably brought it! I was too busy getting things ready for the hungry young men and unfortunately wasn't able to snap any pictures.

After the athletes got their bellies full, some played cards, some just relaxed and some played football.


After getting up early, packing the vehicles with everything needed for the entire day, sitting through the first game, and eating lunch, some just crumbled from exhaustion.


Others just relaxed and watched as Clarksville beat Shakamak in 8 innings 4-3.


After everything was cleaned up and put away it was time to play some baseball again. Crothersville faced a very experienced team and eventually lost to Shakamak in the consolation game.

In both games the Tigers played well and I'm sure gained some experience. Eventually the wins will come and pretty soon we should once again be bringing home the hardware after the championship game, just like in the past.

Patrick on defense at second base.


After the team was loaded on the bus and headed home, they decided to stop at McDonalds for their supper meal. When we were getting ready to leave, the clouds rolled in and a thunderstorm poured down. Unfortunately, the championship game was cancelled and I'm not sure when or if it will be played.