Showcase washed out

Unfortunately the Showcase got washed out today...the monsoon rains made the diamond unplayable even though the sun came out later.

The Eagles are going to try and host the Showcase later in the season - more details to be provided when available.

GOFL Showcase on Saturday

The Greater Ottawa Fastball League showcase is this Saturday May 31 in Metcalfe.

The event, hosted by the Greely Eagles, sees each team playing two games for a total of nine matches throughout the day, with a kids clinic at 11am. (Let's hope for reasonable weather to get everything in.)

See TC's blog for an article that appeared in the Ottawa South Weekender.

Woody perfect over 5, I4C wins 6-0 vs Orleans

from Mike Money

I4C Victory's Trevor Wood pitched a perfect game over the 5 inning mercy rule shortened game in Carp on Thursday night against the Orleans Gators. (Stats line: 5 innings, 15 batters, 0 hits, 0 walks, 0 base runners, 7 Ks.) On the mound for Orleans was Chad Hargrove.

In the first two innings, Carp was able to score 6 runs on some hot bats including a two run homer from Kevin McGuire, and a two run triple from Eric Colvin.

Defensively, Carp's newest addition Dan Gagner playing second base was stellar, including a 4-3 put-out where he kicked the ball to the first baseman.

Leaders for Carp
Eric Colvin 1-1, 2 BB, Triple, 2 RBI, 2 Runs Scored
Kevin McGuire 1-1, BB, HBP, HR, 2 RBI, 1 Run Scored

Reunion to honour past stars

from the Pembroke Daily Observer - Jamie Bramburger

Bob Clinton was one of the most colourful umpires to ever work a fastball game. Known for his bellowing voice and trademark strike three call, Clinton was a jolly presence on the field and called many games in the Alice and Fraser Men's Fastball League.

By contrast, Don Brown was a quiet man at the ball park but he was always a presence on the bench as general manager of Miller's Beverages. Miller's won the league championship in 1987, the final year the league operated, but it wasn't the end of the road for Brown as a manager. He was at the helm in the early 1990s when the Casey's Restaurant team set a league record in the Upper Ottawa Valley Men's Fastball League when it put together an undefeated season.

Both Brown and Clinton are among several league officials, coaches, umpires and players who will be recognized posthumously for their contribution to the Alice and Fraser Men's Fastball League when a reunion tournament is held Saturday, June 14 at the Alice and Fraser Recreation Centre.

The others who will be remembered are Michael McCaughan, Arlin Bramburger, Todd Noack, Brian Watson, Bob Biesenthal, Shawn Smith, Don Nagora and Gary Bohemier. League president Harold Bramburger, who held the presidency for the final few seasons the league operated, will also be remembered.

Organizers of the reunion are inviting the families of each of these league participants to share in the ceremony, which will take place at approximately 6 p.m., just prior to the final of the one-day tournament. A memorial made of granite will be installed just outside the home run fence in right field on the main diamond at the Alice and Fraser Recreation Centre, where the league played its games throughout the 1980s.

Five teams will be competing in the reunion including Unique Insulation, Miller's Beverages, H.E. Brumm Construction, Red Bargain Barn and Cassidy's Transfer and Storage. Former Stalkie's Shell pitcher Graham (Fuzzy) Faught and past league president and Police Association infielder Rob Dickie will throw out the ceremonial first pitches before the opening game between Red Bargain Barn and Miller's at 10 a.m.

In its prime, the Alice and Fraser Men's Fastball League was known for great pitching. Many of those pitchers will be back at the reunion to try to strike out the opposition one more time, including Len Burger, Ernie Schroeder, John Biesenthal and Tim O'Meara.

Admission to the tournament is free and all fans of fastball are encouraged to attend the reunion. It's a great opportunity to "take someone out to the old ball game," where the players may be a bit older than they were when they played in the league, but their love of the game will still shine through with every pitch and every at-bat.

As Bob Clinton would have said, "Gentlemen, it's time to Play Ball!"

North Leeds League Showcase - June 8

This year the North Leeds Men's Fastball League will be hosting a League Showcase on Sunday June 8 at Lower Reach Park in Smiths Falls.

The first game is Smiths Falls Juniors vs. Greenbush at noon. The second game of the day will see Lyn playing Newboro at 2 pm. In the final game of the day at 4pm, it will be a "Redmen Reunion" when West Carleton Electric will play an exhibition game against the Smiths Falls Juniors. The Electric have six former Smiths Falls Juniors in their line up.

The "Mayor of Blackburn Hamlet"

Check out the story on the Blackburn Men's Fastball League site. Greg Kazmierski was honoured recently as the "Mayor of Blackburn Hamlet". If you played league or tournament fastball in Blackburn, you'll know Greg.

Wednesday GOFL report: Two games, three runs

Two tight games on Wednesday night - Manotick and the Blitz tied at 1-1, while Easton squeaked by Quyon 1-0.

Easton 1 Quyon 0
from Shawn Laframboise

Quyon traveled to Stittsville to take on Team Easton for their second game in as many nights. Dan Konkle took the mound for Easton and brought his 'A' game. Matt Greer got the nod for Quyon.

In the first inning, Konkle struck out the first two batters and then got Joe 'ZZ' McCleary to fly out to the third baseman for a quick and effective start. Greer countered retiring three of the first four batters, giving up a lead-off walk to Dave Tubman.

In the bottom half of the third inning, Easton broke up the tie. Kevin Chevrier battled Greer and then reached 1st, beating out the throw on an infield hit to the shortstop. He subsequently scored on a Todd Fraser double that went off the fence in straight-away center.

Konkle remained perfect through four innings, but Joran Graham broke up his rhythm with a lead-off single in the fifth. Easton got out of it as Konkle retired the next three batters.

The Flyers threatened again in the sixth with Greer starting things off and reaching on an error charged to first baseman Scott Marion. That was followed up by a Steve 'Toad' McCord single to put runners on first and second with none out. Konkle settled down, striking out Jordan Kearns and Fraser threw out Greer attempting to swipe third for the "strike 'em out, throw 'em out" double play, killing all the Quyon momentum. Zeremiah Zuke Joe McCleary then grounded out to end the threat.

With Greer suffering a laceration to the hand in his attempted steal in the sixth, Graham came in to replace him on the mound. He retired the three batters he faced to give his team one last chance to muster up a run.

The Flyers threatened again in the top of seven, with Luke "Ham" Young taking a two-out offering hard down the 1st baseline, which eluded Marion. Ham took second base and this brought Shawn "Mo" Laframboise to the plate. Laframboise took the first pitch deep to right field however it just sliced foul. Konkle proceeded to end the game with a "K".

Todd Fraser ended the night at 2 for 3, with the game's lone RBI.

Manotick 1 Blitz 1
with info from Tony Riches

Lomor Printers and the Ottawa Blitz squared off Wednesday night in Manotick and played to 1-1 draw.

Jamie Blakely threw for the Blitz while Trevor Lahey had the ball for Manotick Lomor Printers.

The Blitz defence had two double plays to help keep the score low.

The speedy Tony Riches scored the only Manotick run of the game, pinch running for Steve "Ira" McLaughlin.

Don Cox had a walk for Manotick. Normally this would not be news - however, this was Don's first walk in two seasons. Last year he had no walks in 57 at-bats.

Flyers down 56ers 5 - 2, another HR by Macaroni Joe

from Shawn Laframboise

Quyon played host to the Stittsville 56ers on Tuesday night, earning the victory by a score of 5 - 2. Drew Hathway had the win for Quyon going the distance, giving up only 2 hits, walking 1, and striking out 14. Dan Bradley took the mound for the 56ers, tossing the complete game in a losing effort.

The Flyers got things rolling in the bottom of the 1st inning. Dennis McCleary started things off with a one-out single. Then, older brother Macaroni McCleary hit a frozen rope 2-run shot to right field to give the home team a 2 - 0 edge.

After a 1-2-3 second, Quyon added to their lead in the bottom half of the inning. Jordan Kearns started things off with a single, and was later cashed in by Ben Younge on an extremely high fly-ball that left the yard for another two-run shot.

Hathway remained perfect through three, and Quyon added one more run to their tally in the bottom half of the third. Dennis McCleary got things going for the home team with a walk. He then took second on a pass ball. Bradley proceeded to retire the next two batters on strikes. With two out, Hathway hit a short grounder to the pitcher that cashed in McCleary when Bradley's throw went astray.

The Stittsville sticks woke up in the top of the fourth. Scott Herriot started things off with a hard grounder off Hathway's leg, giving the 56ers their first hit of the night. Sam Oliver then hit into a fielder's choice before Ryan Bond hit a rope off the fence in right field, scoring Oliver on the double. Bond swiped third on a wild pitch and then scored on a Darren Featherstone ground-out to short stop.

The game remained scoreless for the final three innings. Hathway struck out nine of the ten batters he faced in the final three innings, surrendering a walk in the top of the seventh.

The Flyers head over to Stittsville Wednesday night for a game against Team Easton at the Grove, whereas the 56ers play their next game at the Showcase this weekend in Metcalfe.

WC Electric beats the Blitz 7-0

The Ottawa Blitz travelled to Fitzroy Harbour on Tuesday night, losing to the hometown West Carleton Electric 7-0 in a mercy rule shortened game.

Brad Porter had the 5-inning shutout win for the 'Trics, throwing a one-hitter, while Derick Bulley threw for the Blitz.

The Electric scored a run in the first on a Michael Cavanagh two-out solo shot to left.

Fitzroy added three runs in the third. Jason Cope walked and was brought in by Trevor Barton's second homerun of the season. Jon Daley singled and scored later in the inning on a Shawn Rebertz RBI double.

WC Electric put three more runs across in the fourth. Adam Brown reached on an error. Trevor Barton then singled. Jon Daley reached on a fielder's choice, putting runners on the corners. Brown scored when the Michael Cavanagh's hard grounder to third was misplayed. Shawn Rebertz 2RBI single capped off the scoring for the evening.

Shawn Moher had the only hit for the Blitz in the second.

Fitzroy Hitting:
Trevor Barton 2-3, HR, 2RBI, run scored
Jon Daley 1-3, 2B, 2 runs scored
Michael Cavanagh 1-3, HR, RBI, 2 runs scored
Shawn Rebertz 3-3, 2B, 3RBI
Jason Cope 0-1, BB, SB, run scored

Blitz Hitting:
Shawn Moher 1-2

Fitzroy Pitching:
Brad Porter - win - 5IP, 0R, 1H, 6K, 0BB

Blitz Pitching:
Derick Bulley - loss - 4IP, 7R, 4ER, 7H, 2K, 1BB

Manotick and Greely tie at 2

GREELY, OSGOODE--On Monday night, the Greely DNTW Eagles hosted their South Ottawa rivals Manotick Lomor Printers in Greater Ottawa Fastball League (GOFL) action. The expansion Eagles battled the veteran Printers hard through seven innings. In the end, the score remained tied 2-2.

EXCEPTIONAL EAGLES PITCHING
Eagles' co-captain Shannon Borho got the nod for the Eagles. Borho, who formerly pitched for the Printers, had a strong outing. He pitched five innings, allowing two runs on three hits and one walk. Despite only striking out one batter, Borho clearly was causing the Printers great frustration. He induced 10 Printers to pop or fly-out.

The Printers scored their first run in the third inning. Lindsay Medynski led off the inning with a walk. He advanced to second base on a passed ball. Lindsay then moved to third base after tagging up on a fly-ball to right field. Lindsay then scrambled home on an error by the Eagles' pitcher.

The Printers' second run came in the fourth inning. Tony Riches reached base with a one-out single. Riches advanced to second base on put-out to the second baseman. Riches then scored on a single by Trevor Lahey.

Ryan Cox entered to pitch for the Eagles in the top of the sixth inning. Credit Ryan Cox with "the hold." He allowed no runs on no hits and two walks.

"I was really happy with the performance that we got from our two pitchers," said Eagles' co-captain Anil Hayne. "Shannon and Ryan are proving to be a great duo."

EAGLES' AWESOME MIDDLE INFIELD
The Eagles' middle-infield was spectacular on Monday night. Shortstop Mike Savoie and second baseman Matt Peters made several diving catches. Several times they were also able to put-out the lead runner, causing fielder's choices. Without Peters and Savoie's outstanding play, the Eagles might not have held the Printers to only two runs.

EAGLES' OFFENSE
The Eagles first run came in the second inning. Tyler Cox led off the inning with an infield single. Cox then scored from first on a double to the right field gap by Hayne.

The Eagles managed a second run in the fourth inning. Eric "Pedro" Sanchez led off the inning with single. Chad Featherstone then came in to pinch-run for Sanchez. Featherstone move from first to third on a Hayne single. The Eagles then successfully pulled off a double steal, scoring Featherstone.

The Eagles-Printer game was actually the second half of a double-header. Prior to the GOFL game, a minor ball game between the Kenmore Heat and the Greely Eagles (mites) took place. After the minor ball game, about a dozen curious minor ball players were treated to some batting instruction by Eagles' (men) outfielder Chad Featherstone. The kids had a blast.

Lots more fastball excitement is in store for fans this week. Metcalfe's McKendry Park will be the scene of phenomenal fastball action on Saturday, May 31. The Eagles are using McKendry Park to host the 2008 GOFL Showcase. This event will feature nine games between the Ottawa area's best nine fastball clubs.

GOFL Week 4

The fourth week of the GOFL season gets started off tonight (Monday) with Manotick visiting Greely at 8:30pm.

Tuesday night sees the Stittsville 56ers take the boat to Quyon to face the Flyers at 7:30PM, while the Ottawa Blitz will travel to Fitzroy to play West Carleton Electric at 8:30PM.

Quyon has a road game in Stittsville on Wednesday at 8:30PM to play Team Easton, while Manotick has a road game in the 'Tick against the Blitz at 8PM.

The week wraps up with the Gators playing I4C at the Carp Fairgrounds on Thursday at 8:30PM.

This Saturday is the GOFL Showcase in Metcalfe - more on that later.

Williamsburg Wrap Up

from Eric Rosenquist

Local Heroes Kanata successfully defended their title and won the Williamsburg
"Casey At The Bat" Tournament, defeating Gregg Garrity and Ed Taylor's Team 1-0
in the final.

The last of the round-robin games were played on Sunday morning at 9AM. Carp I4C
Victory mercied Williamsburg 7-1 to go 3-0 and win their division. Trevor Wood
got the win for Carp, with Jason Smith taking the loss for Williamsburg and Jeff
Murphy seeing some action in relief of Smitty.

In the other round-robin game, Ed Taylor's Team defeated Manotick 6-0 to finish with a 2-1 record, good for 2nd place in their division behind 3-0 Local Heroes Kanata. Gregg Garrity got the win for Ed Taylor's Team with Trevor Lahey taking the loss for Manotick.

The first semi-final at 11:30 had 3-0 Local Heroes Kanata facing the hometown
2-1 Williamsburg Cigars. Billy Gerber went four strong innings and then turned
the ball over to Francis Leclair who preserved Local Heroes' lead the rest of
the way. The final score was 4-3 with Gerber getting the win and Jeff Murphy
taking the loss.

The second semi-final at 1:30 saw 3-0 Carp I4C Victory home to the 2-1 Ed
Taylor's Team. This game was scoreless until the later innings, with Carp
pitcher Neil Cooke and Ed Taylor's Gregg Garrity both throwing well and earning
several K's. Ed Taylor's team finally broke it open late in the game and scored
3 runs, then held on to preserve the 3-0 shutout. Neil Cooke took the loss for Carp
with Gregg Garrity getting the win for Ed Taylor's Team.

That set up a 4:00 final between Local Heroes Kanata and Ed Taylor's Team -
teams that needed 9 innings to determine a winner in their match on Saturday
morning. Billy Gerber got the ball for Local Heroes with Gregg Garrity once
again throwing for Ed Taylor's Team. This game could have been a repeat of the
Saturday morning game were it not for an odd play in the top of the 3rd inning.
With two out, CF Dan Loney came to the plate for Local Heroes. He hit a sharp
grounder that handcuffed the second basemen and was safe on the error. With the
play still "live", Garrity took the ball and walked to the back of the pitching
circle, thinking about the play and probably mad at himself for giving Loney a
pitch he could hit. The infielders and Garrity relaxed on the play as if time
had been called, and Loney casually walked toward second as if here were going
to talk to the umpire or smooth out the infield dirt. Once he was half-way
there, he took off and stole second, catching Ed Taylor's Team completely by
surprise. Time had not been called and the play was still live, so he was safe
at second with 2 out.

The next batter was catcher Julien Richard who had been hitting the ball well
all weekend. He too hit a sharp grounder, but he beat out the throw on a close
play at first, and when the first baseman juggled the ball a bit on the catch,
Dan Loney rounded 3rd and headed home. By the time the first baseman had control
of the ball it was too late and Loney was already crossing the plate. Garrity
then struck out the next Local Heroes batter to get out of the inning, but Local
Heroes had a 1-0 lead. Billy Gerber then shut down the Ed Taylor hitters in the
bottom of the third and turned the ball over to Francis Leclair in the 4th. Ed
Taylor's Team had their share of baserunners and even had the bases loaded at
one point, but timely strikeouts and some great defence helped them end several
threats and preserve the 1-0 win.

Local Heroes Kanata took home $1000 with runners-up Ed Taylor's Team getting
$700 in prize money.

Tournament awards went to:

Top pitcher: Gregg Garrity - Ed Taylor's Team
Top hitter: Ryan O'Neil catcher for Ed Taylor's Team
Tournament MVP: Dan Loney - Local Heroes Kanata
Fan Favourite: Francis Leclair - Local Heroes Kanata

Could this happen in the GOFL?

Player traded for 10 baseball bats

During three years in the low minors, John Odom never really made a name for himself. That sure changed this week - he's the guy the Calgary Vipers traded for a bunch of bats.

"I don't really care," he said Friday. "It'll make a better story if I make it to the big leagues."

For now, Odom is headed to the Laredo Broncos of the United League. They got him from Calgary of the Golden Baseball League for a most unlikely price: 10 Prairie Sticks Maple Bats, double-dipped black, 34-inch, C243 style.

"They just wanted some bats, good bats - maple bats," Broncos general manager Jose Melendez said.

According to the Prairie Sticks Web site, their maple bats retail for US$69 each. "It will be interesting to see what 10 bats gets us," Melendez said.

The Vipers team signed Odom about a month ago, but couldn't get the 26-year-old righty into Canada. It seems Odom had a "minor" but unspecified criminal record that wasn't revealed to immigration officials before they scanned his passport, Vipers president Peter Young said.

Odom said the charge stemmed from a fight he was in at age 17. Although he thought it had been expunged from his record, it popped up during immigration.

Odom spent hundreds of dollars driving to the Canadian border and staying at a Montana hotel while the matter was sorted out. He then drove to Laredo after the trade.

UOVMFL schedule now online

The Upper Ottawa Valley Men's Fastball League schedule is now online.

It will be four team league, with Shawville, Micksburg Srs, Micksburg Jrs, and McNab/Fitzroy.

Local Heroes repeats

Word is from TC's blog that Kanata Local Heroes won the Williamsburg tournament, defeating Ed Taylor's Team and Gregg Garrity in the final. Details to follow

Williamsburg update

from Eric Rosenquist and tylercox.ca

Results from the Williamsburg Tourney up to Saturday night.

On Friday night, Williamsburg beat the Blitz 3-1. Jason Smith got the win for Williamsburg, Derick Bulley took the loss for the Blitz. The game was scoreless through 6.

The second game saw Manotick defeat North Augusta 7-0. Trevor Lahey pitched for Williamsburg.

On Saturday, both the 8:30 and 9:00 games went to extra innings.

On diamond 1, Local Heroes Kanata and Ed Taylor’s Team were scoreless into the 9th inning. Local Heroes ended up getting 6 runs, with 4 coming via a Cory Alkerton grand slam. Ed Taylor’s got one in the bottom of the 9th to make the final 6-1 Kanata. Francis Leclair got the win for Local Heroes, Gregg Garrity took the loss for Ed Taylor’s team.

On diamond 2, Carp I4C Victory and the Quyon Flyers went into extra innings, and had a ~20 minute protest in the 8th inning before Carp prevailed 2-1 in the bottom of the 9th. One of the Brooks brothers got the win for Carp, Matt Greer took the loss for Quyon.

At 10:30, Local Heroes took on Manotick Lomor Printers. Local Heroes won 6-1 in 6 innings (mercy). Billy Gerber got the win with relief from Francis Leclair and Trevor Lahey took the loss with relief from Adam Smith.

The next round of games saw Ed Taylor's Team defeat North Augusta 6-0. Gregg Garrity got the win with Dan Konkle taking the loss.

On the main diamond, Williamsburg defeated Quyon 6-1 with Jeff Murphy getting the win and Joran Graham taking the loss.

Next up was Carp I4C Victory vs. the Ottawa Blitz. Carp used the long ball and ended up winning 9-1 in a mercy. Chad Hargrove got the win for Carp with Derick Bulley taking the loss with relief from Bud Hanlon.

At 4:30 PM, Local Heroes Kanata took on North Augusta. The final was 11-3 for Local Heroes in 6 innings (mercy). Cory Alkerton went the distance for Local Heroes while Dan Konkle took the loss the North Augusta.

In the final game of the day 0-2 Quyon COMBAT Flyers were taking on the 0-2 Ottawa Blitz. Quyon won 9-7.

Sunday’s round-robin games at 9AM are both meaningful. Williamsburg and I4C were to play with the winner getting first place in their division. The loser got 2nd place and played Local Heroes in the 11:30 semi-final. The other 9AM game has Manotick facing Ed Taylor’s team in a battle of 1-1 teams. The winner gets 2nd place and will face the winner of Williamsburg/Carp in the 1:30 semi-final. The final was at 4PM Sunday.

46th Annual Au Sable Tournament

46th Annual Au Sable Tournament

Teams for the 46th Annual Au Sable Forks Fastpitch Tournament July 11th,12,13

Oswego, NY Cutro Professional Inspections
Carp, ON I4C Victory
South Prospect, NY Razzano's Trucking
Ottawa, ON Blitz
Donnacona, QC Blue Sox
Knoxville, PA/ON
Au Sable Forks, NY Gordon Oil
Au Sable Forks, NY Au Sable Dental
Quebec City, QC Team Quebec Midgets
Quebec City, QC Team Quebec Juniors

UOVMFL season begins

from Shawn Laframboise

The Upper Ottawa Valley league kicked off the '08 campaign with a double header in Micksburg Friday night. The first game saw McNab/Fitzroy defeat the Micksburg Jr Twins 3-0 with Shawn Costello getting the win for McNab.

The second game saw the Shawville Snappers beat the Micksburg Sr Twins. Drew Hathway had the win for the Snappers, going the full 6 innings. Corey Costello was credited with the loss with Jonathan Regier seeing some time in relief.

More details to follow

WC Electric 5-0 over Greely in Friday Night Fastball

West Carleton Electric beat the Greely DNTW Eagles by a score of 5-0 in GOFL play on Friday night in Fitzroy Harbour.

Bud Hanlon had the complete game 4-hit shutout for WC Electric while Shannon Borho took the loss with relief from Ryan Cox.

Greely threatened in the top of the first when Mike Savoie doubled with one out. Shannon Borho was then hit by a pitch putting two men on. Hanlon pitched out of the jam to keep the Eagles off the scoreboard.

Both teams then proceeded to have problems on offense, as no more then 5 men were sent to the plate in each subsequent inning for both teams. Both teams turned a double play in their second half of the inning. The score remained tied through five and a half innings.

West Carleton Electric finally broke through to score five in the sixth. Beef Johnson led things off with a single. He was move to second on a Michael Cavanagh sac bunt. After Shawn Rebertz walked, Steve Cavanagh hit an RBI single scoring Johnson and moving Rebertz to third, puttring WC Electric on the board. Jon Daley came in to run for Steve Cavanagh, and stole second. Neil Murphy hit another single, scoring rebertz and moving Daley to third. Murphy stole second, then Troy Wilson hit a 2RBI double to left putting WC Electric up 4-0. A subsequent Jason Armstrong single drove in another run, and then Ryan Cox came in to relief Borho, retiring the next two on ground balls.

Greely had a brief spark in the top of the seventh when Tyler Cox hit a one out single, but Hanlon closed the door, earning the complete game shutout.

Greely Pitching
Shannon Borho - loss - 5.1IP, 5R, 5ER, 6H, 6K, 4BB
Ryan Cox - 0.2IP, 0R, 0H, 0K, 0BB

Fitzroy Pitching
Bud Hanlon - win - 7IP, 0R, 0ER, 4H, 10K, 1BB, 1HBP

Greely Hitting
Mike Savoie 1-3, 2B
Shannon Borho 2-2, HBP
Tyler Cox 1-2, BB

Fitzroy Hitting
Beef Johnson 1-2, BB, run scored
Shawn Rebertz 1-2, 2B, BB, run scored
Steve Cavanagh 1-1, 2 x BB, RBI
Neil Murphy 1-3, RBI, run scored, SB
Troy Wilson 1-3, 2RBI, run scored
Jason Armstrong 1-3, RBI

North Leeds League Update

from Terry Shea

Smiths Falls Juniors opened their season Thursday night at home won 5-4 over Lyn.

Newboro mercied Greenbush on the opening night 10-0.

McNab minor fastball tournament

Good luck to all the minor fastball teams in McNab for this weekend for a tournament.

Teams in the Novice Girls, Squirt Girls, Peewee Boys and Bantam Boys will be participating. There are teams from McNab, Orleans, Parkwood Hills, and Stittsville that will be attending.

Quyon defeats I4C 4-2 in Carp

from Shawn Laframboise

Quyon travelled to Carp Thursday night for their first game away from home. Matt Greer had the win for Quyon in relief of Joran Graham. Neil Cooke went the distance for Carp, getting the loss.

Quyon got on the board early, with Dennis McCleary starting things off with a bloop single in the first, to be cashed in later on a Joran Graham single to left field.

Carp would eventually tie it up and then later take the lead in the fifth inning. With one on, Brooks Paziuk pushed a bunt between the pitcher and first-baseman putting runners on first and second. Mike Money knocked in the Victory's second run on a single to right field. With runners on first and second, Shawn Houle launched a fly ball to deep center, landing in for a double. The tough to read play hand-cuffed the Carp runners and with a quick relay, caught Money in a run down between second and third, eventually getting Paziuk out at home.

Graham's night on the mound was over, giving way to Matt Greer. After a lengthy chat at the mound, coach Kearns decided to give Kevin McGuire the open base, and set up the force all around. Kyle Gourgon grounded to short, and Luke Young threw out Money in a close play at the plate. A pop up to second base got Quyon out of the scare.

The Flyers answered back in the top of the sixth. Dennis McCleary led off the inning with a frozen rope solo-shot to straight-away center to tie the ball game at 2's. Big Joey "ZZ" McCleary followed up with a single, giving way to Joran Graham. Graham proceeded to hit a towering no-doubter to left field, putting the Flyers up 4 - 2, and the would hold off for the win.

Greer pitched 2 2/3, getting credit for the win, while Graham got the no-decision. Both teams will do battle again Saturday morning at 9AM to open up their weekend in Williamsburg. Come on out to the MAC in Morrisburg for karaoke Saturday night to see ZZ McCleary's rendition of Kim Carnes' "Bette Davis Eyes".

Orleans defeat Greely 5-0

from TC's blog

Orléans Gators 5
Greely DNTW Eagles 0

WP: Chad Hargrove
LP: Ryan Cox with relief from Shannon Borho

HR: Jeff Eastman (Gators)

More to follow

Easton downs Stittsville 11-2 on Wednesday night

from Sam Oliver

The 11 – 2 score is not indicative of how tight this ball game actually was … until the 7th Inning.

Darren Featherstone toed the rubber for Stittsville and only allowed 1 hit through the first 6 innings. Unfortunately, he struggled with the strike zone all night. Easton opened the scoring in the second inning without recording a hit. With one out in the inning, a hit batsman and 5 free passes handed Team Easton a 3 run lead.

Stittsville managed to get one run back in the bottom of the third. John Craig smacked a 2 out single to start the attack and advanced to second when Dan Jessiman walked. Darren Featherstone followed that with a single up the middle scoring Craig from second. Sam Oliver walked to load the bases, but Easton ace Dan Konkle struck out the next 56er batter to end the threat.

The 56ers pulled within 1 run in the bottom half of the 5th. Scott Herriot lead off the inning with a walk, stole second, advanced to third on a 1 out ground ball off the bat of Dan Jessiman, and scored on a Konkle wild pitch.

At the end of 6 innings the score remained Easton 3, Stittsville 2. However, Easton would send 13 batters to the plate in the seventh, scoring 8 runs on 5 hits, 1 hit batsman, and 4 walks. The attack was punctuated by a Dave Tubman grand slam home run which capped the scoring. Tubman also made a sparkling defensive play in the second inning, hauling in a deep fly ball with his back turned to home plate reminiscent of “The Catch” made by Willie Mays in the ’54 World Series.

The pitching lines on the night:

Dan Konkle – 7IP, 2R 2ER, 2H, 5BB, 14K, 2WP
Darren Featherstone – 7IP, 11R, 11ER, 6H, 12BB, 2HB, 9K

Offensively for Stittsville:
John Craig 1 for 3, 1B, R
Darren Featherstone, 1 for 3, 1B, RBI
Scott Herriot 0 for 3, BB, R, SB

Offensively for Easton:
Dave Tubman 1 for 2, R, 2BB, HR, 5RBI
Todd Fraser 1 for 2, R, 1B, BB, 2HB, RBI
Randy Peck 1 for 4, R, BB, 3B, 2RBI
Cory Morrison 1 for 2, 1B
Lukas Kamps 1 for 3, 2R, 1B, HB, RBI
Chad Milne 1 for 3, 2R, 1B, BB
Pat O’Connor 0 for 2, 2R, 2BB, 2RBI

Wednesday GOFL games in Manotick rained out

Another doubleheader in Manotick was rained out in GOFL play. Quyon Flyers were to face Manotick and the Blitz on Wednesday night, but the game was postponed due to the nasty weather. Rescheduled dates to be announced.

Williamsburg Tourney Schedule

Good luck to all teams in the Williamsburg Tourney this weekend. Sounds like you should have good weather.

Group A:
Williamsburg, ON Cigars
Ottawa, ON Blitz
Quyon, QC COMBAT Flyers
Carp, ON I4C Victory

Group B:
Manotick, ON Lomor Printers
North Augusta, ON
Kanata, ON Local Heroes
Blackburn, ON Ed Taylor's

May 23
Fri 7pm Williamsburg vs. Blitz
Fri 9pm Manotick vs North Augusta

May 24
Sat 830am Kanata vs Taylors
Sat 9am I4C vs Quyon
Sat 1030am Manotick vs Kanata
Sat 1230pm Williamsburg vs Quyon
Sat 1pm North Augusta vs Taylors
Sat 230pm Blitz vs I4C
Sat 430pm Kanata vs North Augusta
Sat 630pm Blitz vs Quyon

May 25
Sun 9am Williamsburg vs I4C
Sun 9am Manotick vs Taylors
Sun 1130am (Semi 1)
Sun 130pm (Semi 2)
Sun 4pm (Final)

The tourney will consist of 3 round robin games, with the top 2 teams from each group moving into a semi (1st grA vs 2nd grB) and (1st grB vs 2nd grA).

Winners will meet in final on Sunday at 400 pm.

Defending champions on Kanata Local Heroes.

Kanata Pirates Bantam Girls looking for players

from Dale Aiken

The Kanata Pirates Bantam Girls (16U) team is looking for a player or two to fill out their roster.

Please direct inquiries to pirates@kmsa.ca and check http://www.kmsa.ca for info.

The Kanata Pirates are the competitive branch of the Kanata Minor Softball Association and in 2007, the only competitive girls fastball program in Ottawa.

Boasting a successful history in both boys and girls teams, the Pirates are looking to continue to build on this reputation going forward.

Dale Aiken
Director, Competitive Programs,
Kanata Minor Softball Association

Fitzroy gets revenge over Carp

OK, so not in the GOFL, but in West Carleton Minor Softball.

I'm pleased to report that Fitzroy Harbour Atom 5-pitch Team #1 defeated Carp Team #3 in a hard fought game in Carp on Wednesday night. (We're not supposed to keep score, but admit it all you coaches out there - you're keeping score in your head.)

Owen Brown was a stellar 3-3 and had an assist on one of two put-outs in the game. There's hope yet for the Brown family to produce a ball player!

The Atom league in West Carleton has about 90 kids participating (2000, 2001, 2002 birth years), with nine teams located in Fitzroy Harbour, Carp, Kinburn and Dunrobin. I'm crossing my fingers for some future 'Trics.

I am also pleased to report that at this age level, Fitzroy's softball teams (2) outnumber Fitzroy's soccer teams (1) - the only village in West Carleton that can claim that. Not that I hate soccer or anything....

Anyway, sorry for the divergence, back to regular Eastern Ontario Fastball Blog coverage.

Chapeau Heritage Day

Looks like the Quyon COMBAT Flyers and Fitzroy Harbour West Carleton Electric will be squaring off in an exhibition game up in Chapeau, Quebec at "Heritage Day" on Sunday August 3rd at 3pm.

Len Burger is helping organize this event and it is anticipated a large crowd will be on hand to watch the game.

Always good times in West Quebec, and I'm sure both teams are looking forward to it.

(It always makes me laugh to think that Lenny lives in a place called "Hat".)

Greely DNTW Eagles website

Check out the Greely DNTW Eagles website.

I4C defeats WC Electric 6-2 on Tuesday night

Carp I4C Victory beat West Carleton Electric by a score of 6-2 in GOFL play on Tuesday night, using the long ball on four occasions to seal the win.

Trevor Wood had the win for I4C with relief from Neil Cooke. Brad Porter took the loss for Fitzroy while Bud Hanlon saw action in relief.

WC Electric scored the first run in the bottom of the first. Trevor Barton continued his hot hitting with a single and was moved to second on a Jon Daley sac bunt. Shawn Rebertz hit an RBI single to put the home side up 1-0 early.

I4C scored three in the third inning. Brooks Paziuk hit a one-out single and then was brought in on a Mike Money two-run shot. Kevin McGuire then stroked a drop ball out for a solo HR that put I4C Victory up with a 3-1 lead.

Victory added to their lead in the top of the fourth. Eric Colvin led off the inning with a solo home run that chased Porter from the game in favour of Hanlon. Later in the inning, Al Read hit a two-out double on a flare to centre and was brought in on a RBI single by Pakiuk.

In the top of the seventh, I4C padded their lead when McGuire hit his second homer of the night, a solo shot, to put the Victory up 6-1.

WC Electric managed to respond with a run in the bottom of the seventh. Beef Johnson led things off with a double and was brought in by Steve Cavanagh's second double of the game. The game ended at 6-2.

Fitzroy hitters:
Trevor Barton 1-4, run scored
Mike Cavanagh 1-3
Shawn Rebertz 1-3, RBI
Beef Johnson 2-3, 2B, run scored
Steve Cavanagh 2-3, 2B x 2, RBI

Carp hitters:
Mike Money 1-4, HR, 2RBI
Shawn Houle 1-4
Kevin McGuire 3-4, HR x 2, 2RBI
Kyle Gourgon 1-4
Eric Colvin 1-3, HR, RBI
Shawn Simzer 1-3, 2B
Al Read 1-3, 2B, run scored
Brooks Paziuk 2-3, RBI, run scored

Fitzroy pitching:
Brad Porter - loss - 3IP, 4R, 4ER, 5H, 3K, 0BB
Bud Hanlon 4IP, 2R, 2ER, 6H, 5K, 0BB

Carp pitching:
Trevor Wood - win - 5IP, 1R, 1ER, 5H, 3K, 0BB
Neil Cooke - 2IP, 1R, 1ER, 2H, 2K, 0BB

Easton stays undefeated with 10-3 win over I4C Victory

from Cory Morrison - with update

Easton travelled to the Carp fairgrounds this past Thursday evening for a matchup with I4C Victory. Kyle Olson got his first start of the year for Easton while I4C countered with Neil Cooke.

After Cooke opened with a 1-2-3 first the Victory started strong in their half of the inning with singles off the bats of Houle, McGuire, and Gourgon to put I4C up 1-0.

They added to their lead in the second as Shawn Simzer lead off with a double to the gap and later scored on another Victory single.

Carp continued to add to their total in the 3rd as Trevor Wood doubled to deep center and later scored on an Al Read sinlge.

That was it for Easton starter Olson as he was replaced by Dan Konkle to start the 4th.

Easton was finally able to get on the scoresheet in their half of the 4th as Scott Marion singled and was plated by a 2Run bomb off the bat of Todd Fraser. That was Fraser's 3rd homerun in as many games.

Easton took the lead in the 5th as Scott Marion doubled, Todd Fraser singled to cash Marion and took second on the throw home then Randy Peck singled to score Fraser. With Peck on second due to a passed ball Cory Morrison singled to score him and took second on an error to the left fielder and tried to take 3rd as well but was thrown out to to end the inning.

With Easton up 5-3 heading into the bottom of 6 Victory starter Neil Cooke was replaced by Trevor Wood. Wood walked the first batter Kamps but was able to get the next two batters in order before walking Konkle then giving up a single to Chad Milne to score Kamps. Scott Marion then collected his 3rd hit of the game and Todd Fraser followed that with another single to score two more Easton runners.

Easton capped the scoring in 7th as Morrison led off with a solo homerun to center then Kamps singled, took second on an error and scored on a Konkle single. Konkle then shut the door in the bottom of 7 to end the game. Final score was Easton 10 VS Carp 3.

Batters

Easton

Todd Fraser 3/4 HR 2B 2Runs 5Rbi's
Cory Morrison 2/4 HR 2Rbi's
Scott Marion 3/5 (2)1B 2B 2Runs

Carp
Shawn Simzer 1/3 2B Run Scored
Trevor Wood 1/3 2B Run Scored
Kyle Gourgon 1/2 1B Rbi

Macaroni fueled homeruns lead Flyers to win

Check out the article in this week's Pontiac Equity, from ace sports reporter and friend of fastball, Wilbur McLean.

Ah, the good old days of Fastball

Fastball reunion in Alice & Fraser
Posted By JAMIE BRAMBURGER in the Pembroke Daily Observer

It was a fastball game for the ages. A game that lasted four hours, took 20 innings to complete and featured stellar pitching and great defence.

It happened on September 16, 1984 on a cold fall evening at the Alice and Fraser Recreation Centre when Stafford Sports and Red Bargain Barn battled in game seven of their Alice and Fraser Men's Fastball League championship series.

Pembroke Observer sports editor Peter Lapinskie wrote, "It was more than a fastball game. It was an event that will be talked about for a long time."

Indeed it was. The game ended just after midnight when Stafford Sports plated the winning run in a 3-2 decision. Ernie Schroeder pitched all 20 innings for the Barn, while John Biesenthal and Tim O'Meara shared the pitching duties in the winning effort.

It was a game that featured a spectacular catch by Brian O'Connor, who dove to catch a line drive off the bat of Stafford centre fielder Mike McCaughan that would have plated a pair of runs. It was also a game that saw Stafford catcher Jerry Johnston block the plate, preventing the winning run from scoring in the bottom of the 14th inning.

A year later there was another thrilling seven-game series as Red Bargain Barn reclaimed its title with a 2-0 win over Miller's Beverages in the deciding game. Blake Sterling was named the playoff MVP for his clutch hitting and pitch-calling behind the plate. No one knew then that it would be the last game played in the Alice and Fraser Men's Fastball League.

Twenty years after the league folded, a reunion is being planned. Teams like Cassidy's Transfer and Storage, Unique Insulation, Miller's Beverages, H.E. Brumm Construction and Red Bargain Barn are getting together to play a few more games of fastball on Saturday, June 14 at the Alice and Fraser Recreation Centre, the scene of so many great fastball games in the 1980s.

The Alice and Fraser Men's Fastball League was known for outstanding pitching. As the league became more competitive, which always happens when the best pitchers are playing, some players became frustrated. The hitting became more difficult as great pitchers like Len Burger, Dave Burke, Bill Chaisson and Lloyd Stewart put on pitching clinics, mowing down batters with a combination of speed and movement on a ball that was being thrown from only 46 feet away from the batter. Players turned to slowpitch, which was coming into its own as a recreational sport and as teams started to lose players, the league had no choice but to collapse.

Only three teams survived. Red Bargain Barn, Stafford Sports and Miller's joined the Upper Ottawa Valley Men's Fastball League in time for the 1988 season. It was the end of an era, but two decades later the players who played in the Alice and Fraser Men's Fastball League are invited to come back and play one more time.

A one-day tournament is planned with each club playing a pair of games. Anyone who played in the league is invited to participate and more players are needed. The day will end with a competitive men's fastball game featuring two teams from the Upper Ottawa Valley Men's Fastball League.

There's no question the players will have more grey hair, there won't be any base-stealing, it will hurt to throw the ball, and the pitching and bat speed will be considerably slower. On this day, winning won't be as important as getting together with a group of men who shared a game they loved, and will now take the opportunity to talk about some great memories of a league that ended prematurely. Perhaps the games played on June 14 will produce one more magical play to talk about for another 20 years.

Snapper Shootout Program

Well, I thought the Staples photocopied program we whip up every year for the Fitzroy tournament was pretty slick....however, compare that to the program for the Snapper Shootout.

Check it out here: http://www.aerialpromotions.ca/NSSP08.html.

Good luck to Team Easton which will represent Eastern Ontario at this tourney.

Joran Graham makes the Junior National Team

Micksburg boy makes good! See the press release from Softball Canada below (thanks to Mike Branchaud of Softball Canada for the heads up):

Softball Canada Names 2008 Junior Men's National Team
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20th, 2008
Softball Canada Names 2008 Junior Men's National Team


(Ottawa, ON) - Seventeen (17) of Canada's brightest future male softball players have been named to the Junior Men's National Team and will represent Canada at the ISF Junior Men’s World Championships in Whitehorse, Yukon from June 20th to the 29th, 2008.

The athletes who have been chosen to represent Canada at the Junior Men’s World Championships are:

Derek Arsenie (Saskatoon, SK)
Patrick Avery (Larry’s River, NS)
Shane Boland (Goulds, NL)
Dylan Cunningham (Belwood, ON)
Travis Dauvin Saskatoon, SK)
Adam Day (Enfield, NS)
Joran Graham (Micksburg, ON)
Dennis Iron (Canoe Narrows, SK)
Cory Jones (Leduc, AB)
Dustin Keshane (Norquay, SK)
Aaron Long (Guysborough, NS)
Devon McCullough (Saskatoon, SK)
Dan Mitchell (Paris, ON)
Mike Noftall (St. John’s, NL)
Jessin Potskin (Prince George, BC)
Terrell Walker (Balcarres, SK)
Darcy Walushka (Victoria, BC)

Coaching Staff
Head Coach: Tom Doucette (Middle Musquodoboit, NS)
AssistantCoach: Jim Jones (Leduc, AB)
AssistantCoach: Jim Cowdrey(Mississauga, ON)
Team Leader: Duke Cormier(Summerside, PEI)
Athletic Therapist: Adam Davies(Ottawa, ON)

“We are excited with this year’s Canadian Junior Men’s Team” noted Duke Cormier, Canada’s Team Leader for the event. “We have depth at pitching, strong defence and good team speed and are looking forward to the support on home soil in Whitehorse. We will play a 10 game exhibition series in Vancouver to further prepare and allow this talented group to come together and prepare for a chance to win in Whitehorse.”

ISF Junior Men’s World Championships Schedule (Whitehorse, Yukon):

June 20th: Canada vs. Czech Republic (7:00pm,PDT) – Field I
June 21st: Canada vs. Argentina (7:30pm, PDT) –Field I
June 22nd: Canada vs. South Africa (11:00am, PDT)– Field II
June 22nd: Canada vs. New Zealand (7:30pm, PDT) –Field I
June 23rd: Botswana vs. Canada (11:00am, PDT) –Field II
June 23rd: Venezuela vs. Canada (7:30pm, PDT) –Field I
June 24th: Australia vs. Canada (7:30pm, PDT) –Field I
June 25th: Mexico vs. Canada (12:00pm, PDT) –Field I
June 25th: Denmark vs. Canada (7:30pm, PDT) –Field I
June 26th: Canada vs. Japan (7:30pm, PDT) – FieldI
June 27th: Canada vs. United States (7:30pm, PDT)– Field I
June 28th: Playoff 1 – 3rd place vs. 4th place (3:00pm, PDT) – Field I
June 28th: Playoff 2 – 1st place vs. 2nd place (5:30pm, PDT) – Field I
June 29th: Playoff 3 (Bronze medal) – Winner Playoff 1 vs. Loser Playoff 2 (1:00pm, PDT) – Field I
June 29th: Playoff 4 (Gold Medal) – Winner Playoff 2 vs. Winner Playoff 3 (4:00pm, PDT) – Field I

“If past World Championships are indicators of what will occur in Whitehorse, the fans will certainly be in for a softball treat” added Canadian Head Coach Tom Doucette. “There are so many countries that have high end programs that the week should have some epic confrontations.”

The entire schedule can be viewed at the tournament’sofficial website www.worldsoftball2008.com

For more information please contact:

Gilles LeBlanc
Manager: Marketing and CommunicationsServices
Softball Canada
(613) 523-3386 ext 3105
gleblanc@softball.ca

Ottawa Blitz pull the pin on their tourney

Unfortunately it looks like the Blitz Tournament at the end of July has been cancelled.

GOFL Week 3

On to week 3 in the GOFL. With the weather forecast, let's hope we get all the games in.

On Tuesday, I4C Victory travels westward to Fitzroy Harbour to face the West Carleton Electric in their home opener.

For Wednesday, it's Team Easton and Stittsville facing off at the Grove, with the 56ers as home team. Both teams are undefeated. Also on Wednesday, Quyon will travel south to Manotick for a doubleheader, with game one versus the Blitz at 7pm, followed by a game against the Printers at 9pm.

Quyon's road trip continues on Thursday night as they go to the Fairgrounds in Carp against I4C. That same night the Gators will host Greely in Orleans.

To wind up the week, it's Friday Night Fastball in the Harbour as the Greely Eagles are in town to face the West Carleton Electric.

This upcoming weekend is the Williamsburg Tournament. Lyle Schell reports that they have 8 teams registered and they hope to get to 10. Spots still available (see previous post).

CPI tournament

Apparently the CPI Tournament in Oswego, NY on the June 13-15 weekend will feature the following ISC II teams:

CPI
PA Power
PA Rise
Glencoe Astros
Carp I4C Victory
Ottawa Team Easton
Waterdown Hammer
Donnacona Blue Sox

Looks like the Canadian teams outnumber the US teams!

Will Lowe throws no-hitter in the BMFL

Word on the street is that the Blackburn League had no-hit performance by Will Lowe.

Apparently he faced the minimum 21 batters, allowing one walk and struck out 13.

Orleans ties WC Electric 3-3 in opener

Orleans Gators and West Carleton Electric played to a 3-3 tie in GOFL action on Thursday night in Orleans.

Chad Hargrove went the distance for Orleans in their first game of the season, while Bud Hanlon (4 innings) and Brad Porter (3 innings) shared the ball for Fitzroy.

WC Electric scored two in the top of the first. Jon Daley led off with a walk and stole second base. Trevor Barton then stroked a 3 and 0 pitch over the left field fence to put the 'Trics up 2-0. Michael Cavanagh and Troy Wilson also had singles but were stranded.

Orleans responded with a run in the bottom of the first frame. Jordan Adams hit a one-out single and scored on a Matt Bowman triple to right to that took a wild bounce to the fence.

The Gators took a one run lead in the bottom of the fourth. Matt Alkerton and Matt Bowman walked to start the inning. Bud Hanlon struck out the next two batters, but Brian Friesen hit a 2RBI double to left-centre to put the home team up 3-2.

Fitzroy tied the game in the top of the sixth. Trevor Barton led off with a double. Neil Murphy then walked. Mike Cavanagh hit into a fielder's choice, moving Barton third. Steve Johnson then hit a grounder to second and Barton beat the throw to tie the game at 3. Hargrove was able to get the next two outs to end the threat.

Orleans had a chance in the bottom of the sixth when Brad Porter walked Matt Bowman and Chad Hargrove with one out, but Porter retired the next two batters on K's.

In the top of the seventh Jason Cope led off the inning with a walk and took second on a wild pitch. However he was stranded there as Hargrove struck out the next three batters in succession.

With Orleans unable to score in the bottom of the seventh, the game ended in a draw. The game was error free and both teams only combined for 7 hits.

Orleans hitters:
Jordan Adams 1-3, run scored
Matt Alkerton 0-2, BB, run scored
Matt Bowman 1-1, 3B, BB x 2, run scored, RBI
Brian Friesen 1-3, 2B, 2RBI

Fitzroy hitters:
Jon Daley 0-3, BB, run scored, SB
Trevor Barton 2-4, HR, 2B, 2RBI, 2 runs scored
Michael Cavanagh 1-3, SB
Troy Wilson 1-3

Orleans pitching:
Chad Hargrove - tie - 7IP 3R 3ER 4H 12K 3BB

Fitzroy pitching:
Bud Hanlon - 4IP 3R 3ER 3H 8K 2BB
Brad Porter - tie - 3IP 0R 0H 6K 2BB

Eagles Outlast Blitz 11-9

MANOTICK, OTTAWA--The Greely DNTW Eagles earned their first-ever victory on Wednesday night in Manotick. The Eagles outlasted the Ottawa Blitz 11-9, in a high-scoring Greater Ottawa Fastball League (GOFL) affair. Fastball historians will credit Ryan Cox with earning the Eagles' first pitching victory.

BLITZ TOOK CONTROL EARLY
The Eagles jumped out to an early lead when Derek Dumond led off in the top of the first inning with a single off the Blitz starting pitcher Jamie Blakely. Dumond then stole second base, and advanced to third on a passed ball. Dumond then scored on an RBI by Shannon Borho.

The Eagles' lead was short-lived, though. The Blitz answered, scoring two runs in the first and one in the second. Jamie Blakely, Andrew Bruce, and Ron Hrycak scored for the Blitz in the first two frames.

EAGLES STRIKE IN THE THIRD INNING
The Eagles went on the attack in the top of the third inning, scoring five runs. Matt Peters, Dumond, Mike Savoie and Shannon Borho led off the inning with four straight singles. Blakely then struck out Stefan Sklepowicz. Eagles' co-captain Anil Hayne then crushed a two-run triple. Hayne scored on a sacrifice fly by Tyler Cox. The Eagles had managed five runs in the third off Blakely, making the score 6-3.

EAGLES GET BLITZED IN THE FOURTH
The Blitz answered with their own huge rally in the fourth inning. Five straight Blitz players scored. The Blitz had moved ahead 8-6. At this point, Ryan Cox relieved Borho as pitcher. Ryan Cox allowed single to Hrycak before slamming the door on the Blitz blitz.

The Eagles clawed back with one run in the fifth when Borho reached base on a single off Blitz reliever Pierre Lalonde. Stefan Sklepowicz induced a walk, which moved Borho to second base. Steve Tsonos then drove in Borho with an RBI single. This narrowed the Blitz lead over the Eagles 8-7.

EAGLES SOAR IN THE SIXTH
The Eagles retook the lead in the sixth inning when they scored four runs. Left-hander Will Mood had come in to pitch for the Blitz. Mood got off to a shaky start when he drilled two-straight batters, Peters and Dumond. Eagles' second-baseman Peters took a pitch off the posterior, and received a lot of good-natured ribbing from his team-mates.

"Don't rub it," joked the Eagles. "Be tough!"

Peters and Dumond scored on a two-run triple by Hayne. Hayne had shown good speed by reaching third, standing up. The co-captain then showed his speed again when he scored standing up on a passed ball. The Eagles had moved ahead 11-8.

The Blitz managed one more run in the bottom of the seventh. Tony Searle reached base with a two-out single. Kevin O'Neil then reached base on an infield error, allowing Searle to advance to third base. Searle then scored on an RBI single by Blakely. Ryan Cox escaped the inning by inducing Bruce into a fielder's choice to the shortstop.

The Eagles had defeated the Bliltz 11-9. Ryan Cox had earned the Eagles' first-ever win. He talked about the satisfaction and relief felt by earning the first win.

"It feels great to get the win," said Ryan Cox. "We got the monkey off our back."

Eagles' co-captains Borho and Hayne did an excellent job of managing a somewhat depleted line-up. Derrick Lichti (business in Africa), David Millette (traveling Europe), Eric "Pedro" Sanchez (lower back), and Stéphane Vinette (family) were absent.

The Eagles do not have a home game on Monday, May 19. They will will be on the road next week in Orleans and Fitzroy Harbour on Thursday and Friday, respectively.

Williamsburg Tourney still looking for teams

from Lyle Schell

Williamsburg tourney is fast approaching and we still need some teams to confirm, please call Lyle @ 613-535-9949 ASAP to hold your spot.

May 23,24,25. 1500.00 1st, 900.00 2nd, 600.00 3rd. All players eligible.

Stittsville defeats WC Electric 4-1

It was a rainy night in Stittsville, but the 56ers and WC Electric managed to get the full game in, with the home team coming away with the 4-1 victory.

Dan Bradley had the victory, throwing a 2-hitter with 13Ks. Brad Porter took the loss, with Bud Hanlon working in relief.

West Carleton Electric started off the game with Jon Daley hitting a double. Mike Cavanagh dropped a sac bunt moving Daley over to third. Shawn Rebertz hit a one-out single to score the game's first run.

Darren Featherstone hit a solo home run in the third, and Scott Herriott hit a line shot solo homer in the fourth to put Stittsville out to a 2-1 lead after four complete.

Featherstone hit a one-out double in the fifth, and scored on misplayed ground ball to put Stittsville up by two runs.

The final run of the game came in the bottom of the sixth, when Featherstone again scored after reaching base on a passed ball third strike, stole second, moved to third on a wild pitch and was driven in on a Tyler Nystedt infield single.

Stittsville hitting:
Darren Featherstone 2-3, 3 runs scored, RBI, HR, 2B, SB
Scott Herriott 1-2, HR, RBI, Walk
Dan Jessiman 2-2
Tyler Nystedt 1-3, RBI

Fitzroy hitting:
Jon Daley 1-3, 2B, run scored
Shawn Rebertz 1-3, RBI

Stittsville pitching:
Dan Bradley - Win - 7IP, 1R, 1ER, 2H, 13K, 1BB

Fitzroy pitching:
Brad Porter - Loss - 4IP, 3R, 2ER, 5H, 4K, 0BB
Bud Hanlon - 2IP, 1R, 1ER, 1H, 3K, 1BB

Quyon vs. Easton - Moe's version

From Shawn Laframboise

Easton 6 Flyers 6

Team Easton and the Quyon Flyers played out to a 6-all tie in a shortened, six inning game last night. The lengthy affair came to a halt after 6 so everybody could catch the last boat ride across the river. Dan Konkle and Matt Greer both went the distance for their respective clubs. In the six innings, Konkle gave up 9 hits, struck out 7, and walked 4. Greer gave up 8 hits, striking out 4, and walking 5 batters.

After retiring the first two batters in the first inning, Todd Fraser knocked a two-out offering over the lights in left field to give Easton a 1-0 lead. After a Chad Milne single in the second, he was advanced to second by Lukas Kamps. He later scored from second on a Konkle single to center, with the centerfielder Dennis McCleary's throw coming in way off line.

In the bottom of the 3rd the Quyon bats came alive with Shawn Laframboise starting things off with a double to the gap in left-center. Joe McCleary, fresh off eating his traditional Tuesday night macaroni supper, hit a towering fly ball to deep left-center that just managed to escape the friendly confines of the Quyon ball field for his league leading fourth homerun of the year.

After walking the bases loaded in the top of the fourth. Greer surrendered a single to centerfield off the bat of Cory Morrison, scoring Dave Tubman. Attempting to score was Fraser but the centerfielder, redeeming himself, had the gun sighted in this time.

Quyon answered back in the bottom half of the inning, with four runs of their own off some hot bats.

Scott Marion finished off Easton's balanced attack with a two-run no-doubter to left, leaving it at a 6-6 score. The sixth inning was the shortest of the game, being the only one with no runs scored. The game was ended after 6 because of the ferry.



Quyon Hitting

Shawn Laframboise: 3/4, 2B
Joe McCleary: 2/4, HR (4), 4 RBI
Luke Young: 2/3, 2B
Jordan Kearns: 1/3, 1B, reached on error


Easton Hitting

Todd Fraser: 1/2, HR (2), BB, RBI
Scott Marion: 1/3, HR (1), 2 RBI
Cory Morrison: 3/4, RBI
Randy Peck: 2/3

Easton and Quyon tie at 6

from Cory Morrison

Easton 6 VS Quyon 6 (6 innings)

Team Easton travelled to Quyon last night and played the scrappy Flyers to a 6-6 draw after 6 innings. The game was called due to the fact the Easton team had to catch the ferry back. Joe McCleary had another big night for the Flyers going 2/4 with a homerun and 4Rbi. Dan Konkle took to the mound for Easton while Quyon countered with Matt Greer

Easton opened the scoring in the top of the 1st by virtue of a 2 out home run off the bat of Todd Fraser, then added to lead in the second as Chad Milne singled was sacrificed to second by Lukas Kamps and driven home by a Dan Konkle single.

Randy Peck started the 3rd inning with his second single of the game and later scored on an error to put Easton up 3-0.

Quyon cut into the lead in the bottom half of the inning on the strength of a 2 run homerun by Joe McCleary.

Easton got 1 run back in the 4th after consecutive walks to Dave Tubman, Todd Fraser and Randy Peck loaded the bases. Cory Morrison singled to center to cash Tubman. Speedy Todd Fraser also tried to score on the play but was gunned out at the Plate by the Flyer's centerfielder.

Quyon answered back in the bottom half of the innings with 4 runs of their own. Joe McCleary continued his hot hitting with a 2run single to give Quyon the 6-4 lead.

Easton tied the score in their half of the 5th as Scott Marion hit a 2Run shot deep to left field.

Quyon threatened in the bottom of the 5th as starter Matt Greer led off with a double but was left stranded at second base.

Easton
Todd Fraser 1/2 HR BB Rbi
Scott Marion 1/3 HR 2Rbi
Cory Morrison 3/4 3(1B) Rbi
Randy Peck 2/3 2(1B)

Quyon
Joe McLeary 2/4 HR 1B 4Rbi
Shawn Laframbroise 2/3 2B

The poster for the Gil Read tournament

They are still looking for teams for this tourney. If you're interested contact Al Read at 613-225-3837.

McNab ISC II Qualifier at 8 teams

Looks like the ISC II Qualifier in McNab is now at 8 teams and will be a "go", offering a berth to the Tournament of Champions in Wisconsin, along with travel money.

Registered are:
Waterdown Hammer
North York Knights
Carp I4C Victory
Fitzroy Harbour WC Electric
Blackburn Bombers
Quyon COMBAT Flyers
McNab/Fitzroy Badham Carpentry
Donnaconna Blue Sox

There are a couple more teams on the fence - hopefully the tournament will get to 10.

Toledo Jets ready to play in 2008

from Luke Healey

The 2008 Toledo GIM Jets PEEWEE Boys fastball club have completed tryouts and are set for the season. We will competing in the Bantam division of the North Augusta Fastball league. Upcoming tournaments include Cobourg, Stratford, Greenbush.

For more information please visit our web site.

Manotick defeats Greely 4-1

from Tyler Cox, www.tylercox.ca

GREELY VILLAGE, OSGOODE WARD--On Monday night, Greely was the site of an all-Ottawa South fastball battle. The Greater Ottawa Fastball League's (GOFL) Greely DNTW Eagles played host to the visiting Manotick Lomor Printers. Manotick earned bragging rights in the end, defeating Greely 4-1.

EDGERTON BATS 1.000 For Manotick
Shannon Borho started on the mound for the Eagles. He pitched the first four innings, allowing three runs on six hits and three walks. Ryan Cox relieved Borho in the fifth inning, pitching the remaining three innings. Cox allowed one run on six hits and one walk.

Steve Edgerton led the Printers offensively, frustrating the Eagles' pitchers along the way. Edgerton was 4-4 with four singles that landed just beyond the infield. Printers' captain Tony Riches commented on Edgerton's performance.

"(Edgerton ) has been great so far this season," said Tony. "He is six for seven in the first two games."

Smith Stikes-Out Fifteen Eagles
The Eagles were surprised to face Jason Smith on Monday night. Smith, a hard-throwing right-hander, pitches all over North America. He recorded fifteen (15) strikeouts on Monday night, allowing one run on one hit and two walks in seven innings pitched.

The Eagles' lone run came in the fifth inning when Mike Savoie walked and later scored on a series of passed balls. Despite the run, the Eagles were unable to build any momentum against Smith. Eagles' infielder Stéphane Vinette commented on the misfortune of facing Smith in the Eagles' second-ever game.

"Frankly, we were unlucky to face (Smith) tonight," said Vinette. "He only pitched one game for Manotick last year."

Overall, it was a good ball game for players and fans. After the game, the Eagles were happy to meet some first-time fans who had enjoyed the evening's fastball action.

The Eagles will look to rebound on Wednesday night when the travel to Manotick to face the Ottawa Blitz. This game has the making of another rivalry. A few Eagles played for the Blitz in 2007 before leaving to form the Greely club.

The Eagles do not have a home game on Monday, May 19. They will will be on the road next week in Orleans and Fitzroy Harbour on Thursday and Friday, respectively.

GOFL Week 2

Six games on the GOFL slate this week.

On Monday, the Greely DNTW Eagles will host Manotick at 8:30PM.

Tuesday sees Team Easton visit Quyon in a 7:30PM tilt.

Stittsville plays its first game on Wednesday, hosting WC Electric at 8:30PM. Greely travels to Manotick to face the Ottawa Blitz at 8PM in the other game Wednesday.

Orleans plays their first game of the 2008 campaign on Thursday hosting WC Electric at 8:30PM at Pierre Rocque park, while Team Easton travels to Carp to face I4C Victory, also at 8:30PM on Thursday.

WC Electric holds on to defeat Quyon 2-1

Fitzroy Harbour West Carleton Electric held on to defeat the Quyon COMBAT Flyers by a score of 2-1 in GOFL play in Quyon on Sunday afternoon in the annual Mother's Day game.

The many mothers (and other fans) in attendance were treated to a game in warm but windy conditions, which was close to the very end.

Bud Hanlon picked up the win, going four innings for WC Electric. Steve Cavanagh threw the final three innings and picked up the save. Matt Greer went the distance for Quyon.

Fitzroy scored in the top of the first. Michael Cavanagh reached on a two out single, and went to second on a missed pick off attempt. Cavanagh was then driven in on an RBI double by Shawn Rebertz, getting the green light on a 3-0 count.

WC Electric took a 2-0 lead in the top of the third. Trevor Barton singled with one out, and was moved to second on a Michael Cavanagh sacrifice bunt. Shawn Rebertz then walked. Both Barton and Rebertz advanced 60 feet on a wild pitch. Then, on a subsequent wild pitch, Barton scored to put the 'Trics ahead by two.

Quyon answered back with a run in the bottom of the third. Shawn Laframboise hit a two out double, and was driven in by the hot bat of Joe McCleary with an RBI single.

Quyon threatened in the bottom of the seventh. Jordan Kearns walked with one out, whtn Matt Greer hit an infield single deep to short that he beat out to put runners on first and second. However Steve Cavanagh was able to induce two ground balls to get out of the jam and preserve the 2-1 win.

NOTES: Joran Graham was unavailable for the Flyers as he is at a tryout camp for Team Canada to compete at the ISF Junior Men's in Whitehorse, Yukon - good luck Joran.

In other news, if you ever find yourself hungry in Quyon and looking for a snack, how about ordering the "Quyon Flyer" from Le Gros Patate? For only $5.75 you'll get a poutine, with bacon, spun up in a wrap. A portion of each sale goes to support the Flyers.

Hitters for Quyon:
Shawn Laframboise 1 for 3, BB, 2B, scored run
Joe McCleary 2 for 3, RBI
Steve McCord 1 for 3
Dennis McCleary 1 for 2
Matt Greer 1 for 3

Hitters for Fitzroy:
Jon Daley 2 for 4, 2B
Trevor Barton 1 for 4, scored run
Michael Cavanagh 2 for 2, scored run, sac bunt
Shawn Rebertz 1 for 2, RBI, 2B, BB
Neil Murphy 1 for 3
Jason Cope 1 for 2

Pitching for Quyon:
Matt Greer - Loss - 7IP, 2R, 2ER, 8H, 6K, 1BB

Pitching for Fitzroy:
Bud Hanlon - Win - 4IP, 1R, 1ER, 5H, 3K, 0BB
Steve Cavanagh - Save - 3IP, 0R, 0ER, 1H, 5K, 2BB

ISC II Pre-season Rankings

The ISC II Pre-season rankings are now available.

The only local team cracking the rankings is Ottawa Team Easton Thunder, appearing at #11.

The Donnaconna Blue Sox who will play in the McNab qualifier come in tied at #44, and the Waterdown Hammer who will also be in McNab come in at #8.

At the top of the rankings is last year's ToC champs, South Lebanon TNT, with the California Lumberkings (aka California Raisins) at #2.

Softball sportsmanship

A tad cheezy, but an interesting ESPN news item about women's fastball:

http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/video?id=3380875

UPDATE: Colby Cosh thinks the ump screwed up. OK all you umps out there - what is the proper ruling?

Victory Defeats Lomor Printers 9-2 in Season Opener

from Trevor Wood

Some timely hits led Carp I4C to Victory in game one of the 2008 GOFL regular season. Already down 2-0 after the top of the first from a single by Steve Edgerton and a homerun by Don Cox, the Victory came back in the bottom of the first with 4 runs of their own. Mike Money led off the inning with a walk, Shawn Houle reached on error, Kyle Gourgon singled home two runs, Eric Colvin singled to score Gourgon, and Trevor Wood reached on an error to bring home Colvin. Neil Cooke settled down quickly, retiring Lomor Printers batters in order in the top of the second inning. In the bottom of the second, Brooks Paziuk walked, Mike Money doubled and with runners on second and third, Kevin McGuire singled to score Paziuk and Money. Kyle Gourgon walked and Trevor Wood drove in Gourgon for the third run of the inning. In the top of the third, Neil Cooke gave up a double to Steve Edgerton, a single to Don Cox, but retired the next three batters in order with the help of Carp left fielder Shawn Simzer and centre fielder Mike Money who made terrific plays to help keep Lomor Printers off the scoreboard. Trevor Lahey retired Victory batters in order in the bottom of the third, and Neil Cooke returned the favour in the top of the fourth. In the bottom of the fourth, a walk to Kevin McGuire a single by Kyle Gourgon, and a single by Trevor Wood drove in two Victory runs. Trevor Wood pitched the top of the fifth for Carp to end the game.

Notable Carp Batting Statistics:

Mike Money: 1/2 with a walk and 2 runs scored
Kevin McGuire: 1/2 with a walk 2 RBI's and 2 runs scored
Kyle Gourgon: 2/2 with a walk, 2 RBI's and 2 runs scored
Eric Colvin: 1/3 and a run scored
Trevor Wood: 2/3 with 3 RBI's

Carp Pitching Statistics:

Neil Cooke: 4IP, 0BB, 2K's, 4 Hits, 2ER
Trevor Wood: 1IP, 0BB, 1K, 0Hits, 0ER

Illegal bats

Some information on illegal bats, courtesy of Mike Branchaud.

The following is an update on the ASA bat rule that Softball Canada adopted in 2007. (Note: the ISC and the GOFL also use this bat rule.)

All bats with an ASA 2000 and 2004 label are legal unless the bat appears on the non-approved bat list. Softball Canada Rule 3-1a stipulates we are using the ASA bat standard. Rule 3-1 lists many of the criteria for a legal bat but it is important your teams and umpires are aware that some bats with the 2000 label are not legal.

You can access the ASA unapproved bat list at: http://www.softball.org/about/certified_equipment.asp

GOFL Wednesday night

The Wednesday night games in the GOFL were cancelled due to rain. The following games will be rescheduled:

Stittsville at Manotick
Stittsville at Ottawa Blitz
Orleans at Team Easton

GC still throwing after all these years

When the RA Fastball League folded, a familiar face was looking for a place to play. Even at 60+ years of age, Gary Cavanagh was still ready to chuck for another season. Gary will be playing in the Blackburn Men's Fastball League this season, and the word is that his "Prescott" jacket from the 1985 RA Champions will worn a few cool nights this spring as Gary goes out for his 45th season of men's fastball. Keep it up G and hope to see you at a ball park this summer.

Big Joe hits three homers - Quyon defeats Blitz 7-0

from Shawn Laframboise

Flyers 7, Blitz 0

On a beautiful night for ball the Quyon COMBAT Flyers and the Ottawa Blitz squared off in their season opener. Quyon took the field with their 'A' game looking sharp from the get-go. Matt Greer took the mound for Quyon making a statement in the first inning striking out the side. He was credited with the win while Derrick Bulley took the loss for the Blitz.

After a quick top half of the first, Flyers lead-off batter Dennis McCleary started the season with a walk. After being sacrificed to second on a bunt to the third baseman, Joseph 'I Love Macaroni' McCleary hit a homerun over the right field fence. Joran Graham then walked and later scored on a Nick Armitage single.

After walking the first two batters in the second, Cooney settled back down and followed up his great first inning with two K's in both the second and third innings.

After Bulley K'd Dennis McCleary to start off the second, Shawn Laframboise singled to right field and was then cashed in by the wider McCleary's second bomb of the game, this time to the opposite field.

With a 5 - 0 lead The Coon handed the ball over to Flyer newcomer Drew Hathway for the fourth, who has played with the Waterdown Hammer prior to this season. Hathway struck out four and walked two in two innings of work.

Joe McCleary hit a solo homerun in the fourth to finish up his stellar night at the plate, going 3-3 with 3 HR and 5 RBI. Hathway also hit a solo homer in his only plate appearance of the evening.

Both Greer and Hathway combined for a no-hitter through five innings of work. Greer went three innings, walking three and striking out seven. Hathway went two innings, walking two batters and striking out four. Bulley pitched all four innings for Ottawa in the loss.

Easton defeats Greely 9-3 in GOFL opener

Walks Kill Eagles in Season-Opener
Konkle Strikes-Out Eighteen Eagles
from Tylercox.ca

The Greely DNTW Eagles got off to a shaky start in their season-opener, losing 9-3 to Ottawa Team Easton. With the loss, the expansion Eagles’ record is 0-1 in the Greater Ottawa Fastball League (GOFL).

UP-AND-DOWN PITCHING
The Eagles’ pitching was inconsistent on Monday night. Ryan Cox got the nod, pitching three innings before being relieved by Shannon Borho. Borho pitched the remaining four innings. Both pitchers had moments of brilliance, but also struggled to find the strike zone at times. Combined, the Eagles pitching staff gave up 9 runs on eleven walks and six hits. Eagles catcher Stéphane Vinette was busy behind the plate, chasing stray pitches. However, he was optimistic after the game.

“Although [Ryan Cox and Borho] struggled at times, they managed to strike out some excellent hitters,” said Vinette. “We will build upon those strikeouts as we go into our next game.”

KONKLE HAS STRONG OUTING
Team Easton started their ace pitcher Dan Konkle. Konkle was impressive, striking out 18 Eagles. However, the Eagles managed three runs on five hits and four walks against Konkle. Shannon Borho led the Eagles offensively with a two-run double in the fifth inning. Borho talked about facing Konkle.

“There’s no question that [Konkle] is a very good pitcher,” said Borho. “It’s always fun to face him.”

STRONG SHOWING FOR EASTON
Ottawa Team Easton is the five-time defending GOFL Champion team. They proved to be too much for the expansion Eagles on Monday night. Easton was led offensively by catcher Todd Fraser. Fraser, who hit a one-run homer in the fifth, commented on the GOFL’s switch to yellow softballs.

“I like those new yellow balls,” said Fraser. “I am seeing the ball really well.”

The Eagles’ next game is against Manotick Lomor Printers on Monday, May 12 at 8:30 PM at Andy Shields Family Park in Greely. Admission to all games is free. The Eagles are sponsored by DNTW Chartered Accountants.

Easton defeats Greely - Spud's version

from Cory Morrison

Easton 9 Greely 3

Dan Konkle got the win going the full 7 innings. He gave up 3 runs on 5 hits and stuck out 17 and walked 3.

Ryan Cox took the loss after going 3 innings. He gave up 2 runs on 1 hit stuck out 6 and walked 5. Shannon Borho came into the game to start the 4th with Easton up 2-0. Shannon gave up 7 runs on 8 hits walked 5 had 1 HBP and struck out 8.

Todd Fraser led the way offensively for Easton going 3/4 1HR 2(1B) and an RBI

Shannon Borho had a 2 run double for Greely, and Derek Bergeron had 2 singles.

North Leeds League getting ready for 2008

The North Leeds Men's Fastball League is getting ready for the 2008 season.

The league will have 4 teams: Greenbush, Lyn, Newboro and Smiths Falls Juniors and the schedule starts on May 22nd.

Smiths Falls is hosting the OASA Junior B tournament this year.

Loughborough League ready to go

The Loughborough Fastball League down near Kingston is getting ready to start the 2008. Word is that they have 8 teams this year.

The LFL will also be participating in the "ISC II Home League" tournament and will be sending a representative(s) to Fitzroy in September.

Also heard that the Kingston Cowboys who play in the LFL will not be attending the ISC II qualifier in McNab this season.

Week 1 in GOFL starts on Monday

The 2008 season of the Greater Ottawa Fastball League gets started on Monday May 5, with the expansion Greely DNTW Eagles hosting five time champions Ottawa Team Easton.

On Tuesday May 6, the Quyon Flyers host the Ottawa Blitz across the river in la belle province.

The Orleans Gators will travel to Stittsville to play Team Easton on Wednesday May 7.

Manotick will be the scene of a doubleheader Wednesday night, the first of many this season, as Stittsville stops in for two games - the first at 7pm against the Manotick Lomor Printers, followed by the 56ers facing the Ottawa Blitz in the second game.

On Thursday May 8, I4C Victory host their home opener against Manotick at the Carp Fairgrounds.

The final game of the week is the now traditional (3rd year in a row) West Carleton Electric taking the boat to visit the Quyon Flyers on Mother's Day Sunday May 11 at 2pm. Bring Mom and treat her to a Labatt Bleue after the game - make it a quart since it's her special day!

All games start at 8:30PM unless otherwise stated. See the complete league schedule at www.GOFL.ca.

Article in the West Carleton Review

The following article appeared in the April 25, 2008 edition of the West Carleton Review Weekender, which features lots of GOFL coverage throughout the season.

The Greater Ottawa Fastball League, the premier men's fastpitch softball league in eastern Ontario and western Quebec, will have nine teams this season.

Two West Carleton teams play in the league - Fitzroy Harbour West Carleton Electric and Carp I4C Victory. WC Electric were GOFL playoff finalists in 2007, losing to five-time champions, Ottawa Team Easton. Other teams in the league include the Quyon Combat Flyers, Manotick Lomor Printers, Ottawa Blitz, Orleans Gators, Stittsville 56ers, and the expansion Greely DNTW Eagles.

The twelve weeks of regular season play will start in early May and end in late July. WC Electric home games are on Tuesday nights at the Fitzroy Harbour Community Centre, with I4C Victory playing in Carp on Thursday nights at the Carp Fairgrounds.

Playoffs will follow, with all nine teams playing down for the "I4C Trophy".

Teams will play an unbalanced schedule of 20 games, which will include two games each at a League "Showcase Weekend", to be hosted in Metcalfe on Saturday May 31.

Several GOFL teams as well as other teams from across Ontario and Quebec will be playing in the International Softball Congress qualifier tournament in McNab/Braeside from June 20-22, with the top team earning a berth in the ISC Tournament of Champions in Appleton, Wisconsin in August 2008.

Fitzroy Harbour will also play host an ISC qualifier from September 19-21 with the winner earning a berth in the 2009 ISC Tournament of Champions in Iowa.

For more on the Greater Ottawa Fastball League, including the 2008 schedule, please visit www.GOFL.ca.

Fitzroy Harbour to host minor softball clinic

Saturday May 10, 2008
West Carleton Softball Clinic
Boys & Girls 9 to 13 years - no experience necessary
Clinic will focus on proper skill developoment using fun and age appropriate activities: batting, throwing, catching, pitching.
Registrants will be lead by a team of skilled coachees and National Level Players from the "Ottawa Valley Attack" Girls Fastball team.
$50 - includes lunch
Please register by May 5.
Contact Karen Woods, fitzroysoftball[@]gmail.com or 613-622-5713

Wyevale Tribe tourney

Received this tourney information from Michael Kelly of Wyevale - which is up near Wasaga Beach.

Dates: June 27-29
Locations: Wyevale & Elmvale
# of Teams: 15
Entry Fee: $400
Prize Money: 1st Prize $2,000
Format: 3 Game Guarantee (2 Game RR followed by single elimination bracket)
Pitching: ISC II Only (ISC II Ineligible List)
Contact: kellymikej[at]hotmail.com

Blackburn League update

Some updates on the Blackburn League:

- "Eval" camp for new players Saturday May 3 1pm at Blackburn diamonds
- League draft Sunday May 4 7pm
- Schedule starts Tuesday May 6

Visit www.bmfl.ca for more information on the league

ISC II Qualifier update

Things are looking a bit better for the ISC II Qualifier in McNab on June 20-22. Looks like the following seven teams have committed by sending cheques or verbally to the ISC:

North York Knights
Waterdown Hammer
Carp I4C Victory
Fitzroy Harbour WC Electric
Quyon Flyers
Blackburn Bombers
Donnaconna Blue Sox

There are at least three others that I have heard are serioulsy considering it, but no confirmation yet. 10 teams would be nice, but the ISC will allow the qualifier to count with eight teams.

If you want more info, contact Blair Setford of the ISC at blairjs[at]rogers.com or send me an email at fastball[at]fitzroyharbour.com

That's one scary Eagle!

Check out the Greely Eagle comin' at ya.