Kars at Quyon postponed tonight

Due to a player shortage for Kars, tonight's Aces at Quyon Flyers game is being postponed until later in the season.

Barrhaven wins 4-1 over WC Electric

The Barrhaven Broadway Blues won 4-1 over West Carleton Electric in Monday night GOFL action in Fitzroy Harbour.

Trevor Lahey got the win, going the distance and allowing five hits. Steve Cavanagh also threw seven innings for the 'Trics, taking the loss.

Kevin Schonfeld, son of Disco Stew, got things started right away with a lead off homerun to start the game.

The Blues made it a 3-0 game in the second. Trevor Power led off with a single. After a strikeout, men were on first and second on a misplayed grounder. Jordan Adams bloop single over first base cashed two runs to pad the lead for Barrhaven.

WC Electric finally got on the board with a solo HR off the bat of Andy Barber in the bottom of the sixth.

Barrhaven responded in the top of seven when Don Cox singled and scored on a Calvin Medynski RBI single. Lahey shut things down with three Ks in the bottom of the frame to seal the win.

Barrhaven

Kevin Schonfeld 2-4, HR, RBI, R
Don Cox 2-4, R
Chad Hargrove 1-3, BB
Cal Medynski 1-3, RBI, SAC
Trevor Power 2-4, R
Trevor Lahey 1-4
Jordan Adams 1-3, 2RBI

Fitzroy

Andy Barber 1-3, HR, RBI, R
Jeff Barber 2-3
Neil Murphy 1-3, 2B
Steve Cavanagh 1-2

Barrhaven
Trevor Lahey 7IP 1R 1ER 5H 12K 0BB

Fitzroy
Steve Cavanagh 7IP 4R 3ER 10H 4K 1BB

Week 4 in the GOFL - Updated

Week four in the Greater Ottawa Fastball League features six games, including two doubleheaders.

Monday is the home opener in Fitzroy Harbour as the Barrhaven Broadway Blues (2-1) play West Carleton Electric (1-1) at 8:30pm.

Tuesday night on the Quebec side at 8pm has the Quyon Combat Flyers (4-0) hosting the Kars Aces (1-2). This game was moved from being originally scheduled on Thursday.

The Wednesday night doubleheader in Manotick sees Carp I4C Victory (1-2) in for two games, playing Barrhaven at 7pm and the Ottawa Blitz (1-4) at 9pm.

The week ends with Friday Night Fastball in Fitzroy Harbour. In first game at 7pm the Stittsville 56ers (2-2) play the Ottawa Blitz, followed by the Blitz vs WC Electric at 9pm. Pints to follow in the Community Centre.

Williamsburg Sunday results - Team Quebec wins the tourney in the "if game"

report from Marcel Mondoux, Anil Hayne and Matt Alkerton

Team Quebec 6 Williamsburg Cigars 1

Team Quebec advanced to the tournament final with a 6-1 win over the host Cigars in the undefeated game. Francis Leclair had the win with relief from Mathieu Roy. Jeff Murphy took the loss.

Ottawa Blitz 2 Ed Taylor's Shamrocks 0

The Blitzos eliminated the Shamrocks with a 2-0 victory to advance to the loser's bracket final against Williamsburg. Derick Bulley had the win for Ottawa while Gregg Garrity took the loss for Taylor's. Scott Parsons was 2 for 3 with and RBI and Bulley had a triple to cash the other RBI for the Blitz.

Williamsburg Cigars 5 Ottawa Blitz 2

Cory Alkerton had the win for the Cigars, with relief from Jeff Murphy. Jamie Blakely took the loss and had relief from Derick Bulley. The difference in the game was a Kristian Knapp 3 run shot in the 4th inning for the Cigars. The Blitz stranded 11 runners on base.

FINALS: Williamsburg Cigars 11 Team Quebec 5

Williamsburg won the first game of the final to set up the "if necessary" game with a big 11-5 victory to hand Team Quebec their first loss. Jason Smith had the win on the slab, while Francis Leclair took the loss with relief from Mathieu Roy. This sets up the game for title.

IF GAME: Team Quebec 11 Williamsburg Cigars 6

Team Quebec from Donnacona, QC won the 8th Annual Williamsburg tournament taking the "if game" of the 7 team double knockout event with a 11-6 over the host Williamsburg Cigars which assemble once a year for this tourney.

Mathieu Roy was the winning pitcher for the Quebeckers and had relief from Luc Thibault. Jeff Murphy took the loss and had relief from Cory Alkerton.

Jonathan Darveau and Mathieu Lessard had homeruns for Team Quebec, while Danny Powers hit one out for the hosts.

1st place: $700 Team Quebec (Donnacona, QC) 4-1
2nd place: $400 Williamsburg Cigars (host) 4-2
3rd place: Ottawa Blitz 2-2
4th place: Ed Taylor's Shamrocks 2-2
5th place: Barrhaven Broadway Blues 1-2
6th place (tie): Napanee Shoeless Joe Juniors 0-2 / Cree Nation Fireballs 0-2

Tournament Awards:

MVP: Jonathan Darveau, Team Quebec
Top pitcher: Jeff Murphy, Williamsburg Cigars
Top hitter: Lyle Schell, Williamsburg Cigars

CTV News story on Combat

An anonymous reader pass on this information

Check out this video of a recent news item on CTV Ottawa about Combat Sports, sponsor of the Quyon Flyers and the Caveman and Fitzroy Fastball, as well as employer of Joe McCleary.

Snapper Shootout

The schedule for the Snapper Shootout in Niagara Falls, from fastpitchwest.com

8th Annual Snapper Shootout Schedule

June 3-5, 2011
Ker Park
Niagara Falls, ON

FRIDAY NIGHT
1. – 6:45pm – Niagara Snappers vs Port Elgin Blue Devils – D1
2. – 6:45pm – Niagara Fury vs Elmira Expos – D2
3. – 6:45pm – KW Cubs vs Owen Sound Selects – D3
4. – 8:45pm – Alvinston Indians vs Hill United – D1

SATURDAY
5. – 9am – Ashland Stockpack vs Aurora Shoeless Joes – D1
6. – 9am – Lake Simcoe Lightning vs Cree Nation – D2
7. – 9am – Niagara Snappers vs Napanee Juniors – D3
8. – 11am – Niagara Fury vs Alvinston Indians – D1
9. – 11am – Quyon Combat Flyers vs KW Cubs – D2
10. – 11am – Elmira Expos vs Owen Sound Selects – D3
11. – 1pm – Niagara Snappers vs Ashland Stockpack – D1
12. – 1pm – Port Elgin Blue Devils vs Aurora Shoeless Joes – D2
13. – 1pm – Hill United vs Elmira Expos – D3
14. – 3pm – Lake Simcoe Lightning vs Owen Sound Selects – D1
15. – 3pm – Cree Nation vs Quyon Combat Flyers – D2
16. – 3pm – Napanee Juniors vs Niagara Fury – D3
17. – 5pm – KW Cubs vs Hill United – D1
18. – 5pm – Port Elgin Blue Devils vs Cree Nation – D2
19. – 5pm – Aurora Shoeless Joes vs Napanee Juniors – D3
20. – 7pm – Alvinston Indians vs Lake Simcoe Lightning – D1
21. – 9pm – Ashland Stockpack vs Quyon Combat Flyers – D1

SUNDAY PLAYOFFS
22. – 9:15am – “C” Semi – 9th vs 12th – D3
23. – 10am – “B” Semi – 5th vs 8th – D2
24. – 11am – “A” Semi – 1st vs 4th – D1
25. – 11:15am – “C” Semi – 10th vs 11th – D3
26. – Noon – “B” Semi – 6th vs 7th – D2
27. – 1:15pm – “A” Semi – 2nd vs 3rd – D1
28. – 1:15pm – “C” FINAL – Winner of G22 vs Winner of G25 – D3
29. – 2pm – “B” FINAL – Winner of G23 vs Winner of G26 – D2
30. – 3:30pm – “A” FINAL – Winner of G24 vs Winner of G27

Breakfast with the Caveman

I was away all day yesterday at the Williamsburg tournament, but home for the day today with the family. This a.m. I made a little fry up to share with the Caveman. (Fitzroy Junior prefers toast).

Caveman always looks forward to a greasy breakfast. His line this morning as he looked happily at his meal: "Bacon, will you marry me?"

Loughborough Fastball League update

report from Jeff Hannah

The LFL is back and running this season with 8 teams. Unfortunately two teams have folded from last year and one new team has been added.

The Kingston Cowboys and Enterprise Oasis Pools teams were not able to confirm enough players for the season so both have folded. Personally it was a tough day to fold the Cowboys after many years of success in the LFL!

The new team added is the Napanee Shoeless Joe's Juniors. Who will also be the host team at the 2011 Junior Nationals.

The teams this year are:

North Fred Kings (defending league champions)
Sunbury Merchants
Sydenham Men's
Sydenham Midgets
Napanee North Key Junior Express (2011 Junior Canadian defending champs)
Napanee Shoeless Joe's Junior Express (2011 Junior Canadian host)
Napanee Midgets
Newburgh 86ers

The league has gone back to playoff series after two years of an end of the year tournament. The top 6 teams will make the playoffs, with the top two getting a first round bye.

The league has a 22 game schedule with two Showcase nights where all teams will play. Games will be at 6:30 and 8:30. Thursday June 16th at Keeley Rd diamonds in Sydenham. Thursday July 21 at the Napanee Fairgrounds.

Williamsburg Saturday scores

Barrhaven Broadway Blues 2 Napanee Shoeless Joe's Express Juniors 0

A scoreless game through five, the Blues scored a run in each of the sixth and seventh to break the goose egg. Derek Barber and Trevor Lahey had the RBIs. Paul Ceppi had the shutout win. Kyle Arseneault took the loss for Napanee, in relief of Jordan Wrightly.

Team Quebec 10 Ottawa Ed Taylor's Shamrocks 9 8 innings

Say you had just played in the 9am game and were sitting in the beer garden enjoying your first pint and grease burger of the day. Let's also suppose that you saw Francis Leclair and Gregg Garrity warming up to pitch. You'd probably say "this should be a low scoring game." In which case you'd be wrong. The game had a few lead changes but Team Quebec came back to tie the game at 9 in the seventh and force an extra inning and then get the win in the extra frame. Leclair had the win and Garrity had the loss with both going the distance and both adding a homerun to help their cause.

Williamsburg Cigars 3 Cree Nation Fireballs 0 8 innings

The Cree Nation, making the 12 hour trip from James Bay and bolstered by a few local recruits, played to a 0-0 result after seven innings with the local host Williamsburg Cigars, put together by host Lyle Schell for the weekend. The Fireballs left men on second and third in the first inning and ended up regretting not getting these runs across as the hosts scored three in the top of the eighth to get their second win of the tourney. Jeff Murphy had the win for the Cigars while Ray Shanoush took the loss for the Crees.

Ed Taylor's 2 Napanee Juniors 1 8 innings

Another close game, as Taylor's and Napanee were tied at one after seven complete. In the bottom of the eighth, with the international rule runner advanced to third on a sacrifice bunt, Napanee elected to walk the next two batters Brian Friesen and Gregg Garrity, to load the bases to pitch to Darren Featherstone. Featherstone took a pitch in the thigh to get the free pass to first and the game winning RBI. Garrity had the win for Taylor's and Jordan Wrightly took the loss in relief of Kyle Arseneault.

Team Quebec 8 Barrhaven 2 6 innings
This game was closer than the score would indicate as the Quebeckers took a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the fifth but Barrhaven tied things up with two runs in the top of the sixth. However Team Quebec used four home runs in the bottom of the inning to stake a six run lead and invoke the run rule. Luc Thibault had the win while Jeff Barber took the loss in relief of Trevor Lahey.

Ed Taylor's 1 Cree Nation 0 8 innings

Yet another extra inning game, the fourth of the day, was also the second game of the day that ended scoreless after seven. Darren Featherstone had the win and held the Cree Nation scoreless for their second and final game, while Gord Flannery and Ray Shanoush combined for the shutout over 7, with Shanoush giving up the winning run in the extra inning.

Ottawa Blitz 4 Barrhaven 1

The Blitzos were playing their second game of the tournament after losing Friday night, while Barrhaven were playing their third game of Saturday. Jamie Blakely used lots of offspeed pitches and threw a gem to get the win for Ottawa. Scott Parsons had two RBIs for Ottawa. Paul Ceppi went the distance in taking the loss for Barrhaven. The big difference in this game was a three run first for the Blitz as Ceppi has some control issues, before finding his groove for the rest of the game. Given the fact that there had been four extra inning games throughout the day, this one ended around midnight - but the good news is that the beer garden did stay open afterward.

Sunday's play - if the weather cooperates - will feature Williamsburg vs Team Quebec in the undefeated game, with Taylor's facing the Blitz in the loser's bracket side.

Williamsburg Friday Night score

Anil Hayne and Marcel Mondoux report that the host Williamsburg Cigars won 3-1 over the Ottawa Blitz in Friday night action at Williamsburg tournament.

Jason Smith had the win with 16 k's over 7 IP
Derick Bulley had 13 k's over 6 IP and an RBI at bat .

Solo HRs for Williamsburg from Kurtis Summers and Kristian Knapp

Stittsville "Select" Minor softball tournaments

Stittsville Minor Softball will be hosting the following tri-meets, Sunday June 12th and Saturday July 9th. The cost is $75.00 which gives your team two games. The following select levels will be offered: Boys - Squirt, Peewee, and Bantam, Girls - Squirt and Peewee.

For more information please contact:

Sylvia McGinnis (Boys Select) sylvia@stittsvillesoftball.org

Marek Driver (Girls Select) marek@stittsvillesoftball.org

Molly Sherman Memorial in Elkland, PA

The Molly Sherman Memorial tournament in Elkland, PA is a go this weekend. There are 13 teams entered into this double elimination tourney.

Here is the info from the ESA site.

The Molly Sherman Memorial Tournament will go on. Despite rain and losing two of the three fields at the Durk Sherman ESA Complex, the ESA Tournament committee has obtained use of the Elkland High School Baseball field for games this weekend. 13 teams will do battle this weekend. The following is a list of scheduled games 1-8 and their locations:

Field 1 @ ESA Complex
8 AM- Knoxville Ontario vs. Jersey Shore Generals
9:45 AM - Lackawanna Big Johns vs. Busters
11:30 AM - PA Power vs. Waterdown Wizards
1:15 PM- NY Bombers vs. Winner of Knoxville/Jersey Shore

Field 2 @ Elkland Area High School Baseball Field
8 AM - ESA Belly's vs. Williamsport
9:45 AM - Bedford Rays vs. Schuykill Merchants
11:30 AM - CPI vs. Winner of ESA/Williamsport
1:15 PM - Ricola vs. Winner of Lackawanna/Busters

Jim Bradford and Legends schedules posted

Al's Fastball now has schedules posted for the Jim Bradford Tournament in Cobourg on June 10-12 and the Legends tournament in Kitchener on June 24-26.

Jim Bradford

The tournament, moved to Cobourg from Grafton, has 12 teams registered, playing in a round robin format will feature the Kars Aces of the GOFL, as well as some top junior teams: Cobourg Force, Oshawa Bombers, Napanee Shoeless Joes Jrs, Napanee Express Midgets, Napanee NorthKey Express Jrs, Pickering Blazers, Southern Ont Jays Jrs, Oshawa Rebels, Donnacona Bluesox, Cree Nation Bears, Newmarket Stingers Jrs.

Legends

This tournament is played at the excellent facility at the Peter Hallman Ballyard, has 10 teams, including the Quyon Combat Flyers as well as some elite senior teams from around the world: Jarvis Travelers, Argentina National Team, Midland Explorers, Kitchener Cubs, Chicago – New York, New Zealand Black Sox, Port Elgin Blue Devils, Owen Sound Verge Selects, Elmira Erb Expos.

North Leeds Fastball League

Terry McCann provides an update on the North Leeds League for 2011.

The Smiths Falls Juniors folded and Brockville dropped out 2 weeks before the start of season, but North Augusta has put together a team and the league has four teams.

Last night's play: Greenbush 3 North Augusta 3, Eastons Corners 5 Newboro 4

All games are Thursdays at 8:15pm.

Another article about Junior Nationals in Napanee

Two Napanee teams in U23 tournament
By Stephen Petrick/Napanee Guide

Chris McKeown says he has played in some pretty big fast pitch games before.

But he says nothing will compare to the feeling he expects to get from Aug. 8 to 14, when he suits up for the Shoeless Joe's Napanee Under 23 Express team to play in the tournament its hosting: the U23 Men's Canadian Fast Pitch Championships.

"It's definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said McKeown, who was part of Midget Express teams that competed at the Canadian championships in Prince Albert, Sask. in 2007 and Saskatoon in 2008.

"It will be different to sleep in your own bed. There will be added pressure that comes with that, but we're looking forward to it."

McKeown and Shoeless Joe's teammate Scott Mills attended a press conference at the Strathcona Paper Centre Tuesday, where a surprise announcement was made. The Napanee Express will have not one, but two teams represented at the event, which takes place at the Napanee Fairgrounds Sports Complex.

The North Key Construction Under 23 Express team had already earned a spot in the tournament as the defending national champions. They won the Under 23 Men's Canadian Fast Pitch Championship in St. Croix, N.S. last year.

However, national fast pitch championship tournaments reserve a spot for a host team, too. With North Key already entered in as the defending champions, Softball Canada allowed Shoeless Joe's to enter as the host.

Both teams play in what's known as the Loughborough League, a fast pitch circuit with teams in Sydenham, Newburgh, Sunbury and North Fredericksburgh as well. The two Express teams also plan to enter several tournaments this year in preparation for the August event.

North Key Express coach Joe Lewis said there will be pressure on his team, too.

"I'm in 100 per cent agreement," he said, when told that the Shoeless Joe's team expects to face some pressure.

"If you meet your expectations (playing) at home, it's OK, but if you don't it's much tougher. The word might be trepidation. There's nervousness and excitement at the same time. We're going to practise a little more."


Despite the added pressure, both teams expect to be competitive in the tournament, which is said to have at least 12 teams. The full list of teams won't be determined until the middle of June, when champions of other provinces are determined.

Lewis said 15 of 17 players who were part of last year's national championship team are back with North Key Construction. They include the entire pitching staff, consisting of ace Jordan Graham, Ian Wallwork, Josh Lockridge and Cory Alkerton.

They'll be supported by shortstop Kyle Lloyd, the Most Valuable Player in the St. Croix tournament, third baseman Dylan Cunningham and second baseman Joel Langford, among others.

Lewis said any of his nine starting players have the ability to hit home runs. But, at the same time, they can also play "small ball," meaning they can bunt, and score runs through aggressive base running.

"We have a group of individuals who understand the team concept," Lewis said.

Meanwhile, Shoeless Joe's coach Brad MacDonald says his team doesn't have to be considered the underdog, even if his players have less experience than most on the North Key Construction team.

"I want to compete with everyone that's out there," he said.

He said most of his 14 players are graduates of the midget program over the last two years. Many of those players would have played in national championships or Eastern Canada championship tournaments at lower levels, but this will be their first time competing at an elite level of U23 play.

Among players that will be counted on heavily are pitchers Jordan Wrightly and Kyle Arsenault, he said.

MacDonald also said Napanee Express teams are always expected to do well at national championship tournaments, because of the proud legacy they carry. In many cases, Express teams are coached by parents who are former players, who have played at national tournaments before.

"They hold the game within their families and the community and it carries on that way," MacDonald said.

For this reason, he expects to see the fairgrounds packed with fans on Aug. 8 to 14.

"Based on what I've seen in the past, I fully expect there will be great support and lots of fans."

Stephen Paul, Lennox & Addington's economic development manager, and chairperson of the tournament's host committee, acknowledged the community's proud fast pitch tradition, in his opening remarks at Tuesday's press conference.

He said this year's tournament marks the fifth time a national championship fast pitch tournament will be played in Napanee.

However, the other four times a national tournament was played here, it was for midget level play. The last such tournament was held in 2002.

Paul also said the event will be unique because the North Key Construction team could be the first ever Canadian U23 fast-pitch team to complete back-to-back championship seasons by winning on its own field. The tournament also marks the first time that two U23 teams from the same town will compete in the same national championship tournament.

And a Napanee team winning certainly isn't out of the question, based on history. When the North Key Construction team won the title last year, it marked the third time a local U23 team had become national champions.

The Express also won the title in 1996 and in 1986 the North Fredericksburgh Kings won the crown.

"It's going to be great for the fans and it's going to be great for future player development," Paul said of the tournament.

Mike Branchaud, the manager of Canadian championships for Softball Canada, also spoke at the press conference.

"We're pleased to be back in Napanee," he said, adding that more than 2,000 fans attended last year's national championship tournament in St. Croix, and he expects there will be a similar turnout in Napanee. That can only mean good things for the economy of the town, he said, given that players will be staying in local hotels and eating at local restaurants.

"I know Napanee will support this event tremendously," he said. "Everything's pointing to a successful event."

Lewis, MacDonald, McKeown and Mills all nodded in agreement when asked if an all-Napanee matchup seems possible for the championship game, Sunday, Aug. 14.

"I'd say it's a distinct possibility," said Lewis, adding that players on the two teams know each other well and have become friendly rivals.

"It's not a bitter at all – not yet."

Tournament passes for the U23 Canadian Fast Pitch Championships are now on sale for $50. They can be purchased at the Strathcona Paper Centre or by calling 613-354-4423. More information on the tournament is available at http://www.napaneeu23.com.

Williamsburg Tournament features seven teams

The Williamsburg Tournament is this weekend and will feature seven teams in a double knock-out format.

Teams attending are Napanee Express, Ottawa Blitz, Barrhaven Broadway Blues, Team Quebec, Ottawa Ed Taylor's Shamrocks, Eastmain Cree Nation Bears and the host Williamsburg Cigars.

Results to be posted as they are available.

GOFL Week 3 wrap up

A summary of week 3 action in the Greater Ottawa Fastball League, in which we got all five games in despite some sketchy weather.

Stittsville 14 Kars 4 (in 5 innings)
(info from Cory Morrison and John Craig)
The 56ers rebounded in a big way to earn their first win of the season at the Grove on Wednesday by defeating the defending champions 14-4. Darren Featherstone had the win while Chris Hall took the loss for the Aces. Dan Jessiman, Ryan Bond and Adam Smith all hit homeruns for Stittsville.

Blitz 6 Carp 2
(info from Jon Ferguson)
The Ottawa Blitz got their first win of the season in the early game of the Wednesday doubleheader in Manotick over Carp I4C Victory by a score of 6-2. Provided with some early run support, Derick Bulley pitched 5 2/3 strong innings for the win, giving way to Shannon Borho for the final 4 outs. For Carp, starter Ryan Chatten took the loss and was chased early after surrendering 6 runs. Neil Cooke provided solid relief and some pop off the bench with the bat via a solo home-run, his first in the GOFL.

Barrhaven 11 Fitzroy Harbour 4 (in 6 innings)

A big first inning was the difference in this late game of the Manotick doubleheader, as the Broadway Blues capitalized on three WC Electric errors in the first frame to score seven runs off starter Bud Hanlon. Andy Barber came in to relieve Hanlon and finish the game. Chad Hargrove went the distance for the win for Barrhaven. Joe Allan, Steve Edgerton, and Jordan Adams all had two hits for the Blues, as did Lindsay Medynski who drove in four runs. Jon Daley and Derek Barber had two hits apiece for the 'Trics.

Quyon 8 Blitz 0 (in 5 innings)
(info from Shawn Laframboise)
The Quyon Combat Flyers won their fourth in a row with a 8-0 vicotry over the Ottawa Blitz in the home opener Thursday night in the PQ. Matt Greer had the win on the slab, while Shannon Borho took the loss with relief from Derick Bulley. All runs scored by the Combat Flyers were on homers as Steve McCord had a three-run bomb as did Michael Baker and Drew Hathway had a two run shot. Quyon has outscored their opponents 30-4 in their first four games of the season.

Stittsville 9 Carp 8
(info from Kevin McGuire)
In a high scoring contest Thursday night at the Carp Fairgrounds, the 56ers won their second in a row with a 9-8 win over I4C Victory. Darren Featherstone had the win, while Neil Cooke took the loss. Cooke continued with his hot bad and added another home run, as did Eric Colvin for Carp. Scott Herriot and Ryan Bond had homers for Stittsville.

Sorry for the lack of posts

Blogger wouldn't let me log in for a couple of days - but I'm back and can provide your fastball fix.

GOFL action on Wednesday in Manotick

Preliminary results from Manotick on Wednesday night:

Blitz 6 Carp 2. Neil Cooke with a homer in a losing cause for I4C.

Barrhaven 11 WC Electric 4.

more to follow

GOFL Interview - Don Cox

Fitzroy Fastball is back with another interview, this time with longtime player and all around great guy Don Cox. Don says he has more good stories that he can relate - but you'll need to ask him about those around the beer tent next time you see him at a tournament. Thanks Donnie, and here is the "transcript".

Q: Where did you play your minor and junior softball?

A: Played all my minor ball in Carp. Didn’t play any junior as I started playing in the local men’s league at 16.

Q: Who is the coach or teammate that has had the biggest impact on your softball career?

A: As far as a coach goes, oddly enough it would a guy by the name of Billy Rump. I started playing for his men’s team back when I was about 18 or so. It wasn’t so much that he taught us the game but he brought together a good bunch of lads that played well together and knew how to enjoy themselves. He was also instrumental in me going to New Zealand back in 1989/90.

Q: What is the best nickname you have been given playing fastball? ("Coxie" doesn't count!)

A: As far back as I can remember, it’s always been Coxie.

Q: A couple of decades back, the old West Carleton Intermediate League was one of the best fastball loops in the area. Tell us a little bit about what it was like to play in that league 'back in the day'.

A: That was good ball back then. All the teams were very good. Great pitching, hitting and fielding. It was hard nosed ball. Guys played tough and got dirty. If I remember back, I think there was 3 teams playing out of Carp, one from Fitzroy, Pakenham, Almonte, South March, Quyon and the Teachers had a team as well. There may have even been more. There were always plenty of local tournys and many rivalries were made but the pints always flowed afterwards. I guess some things never change.

Q: In the late 80's / early 90's, you went on a trip over to New Zealand. Can you tell us about your time over there and what fastball was like for the Kiwis?

A: Definitely one of the highlights of my ball playing days. Flew there with only ever talking to the coach of the team, “Hutton’s Avalon Dodgers”, maybe 3 times on the phone. I think I had only ever met one other Kiwi in my life before this trip. 3 guys from the team (one being Ross Wallace) met me at the airport, whisked me off to the bottle store to pick up some beer, take a shower, then to the coach's house for dinner. Within 2 hours of being there, almost every guy from the team had stopped by to introduce themselves. I knew immediately that I had just found my 2nd home. I could go on forever about the good times I had down under. I’m not too sure about these days, but back then the Kiwis were big into their ball. We played in a league just outside of Wellington in an area called Lower Hutt. We had 7 or 8 teams in our league and most had their 2 imports of Canadians or Americans. At the time it was said that softball was their second most popular sport next to rugby. There were a lot of Kiwis coming to the States and Canada back in those days. Some guys were making some pretty decent coin as well.

Q: As a young lad, I used to go to the Carp Valley Pride games. As someone who was a fan of the game, I remember what a big deal it was. Can you explain a bit, especially for the younger blog readers, how "big a deal" the Pride were for the area and your experience playing with that squad.

A: Carp had not seen too much top notch ball for the few years prior to the Pride forming. There were still quite a number of fans interested in the game and we were able to get them out quite regularly. We would play exhibition games against local all-star teams for money as well as league games. It was great having so many fans cheer you on unlike when we travelled to tournaments, very few other than the girlfriends or wives were there for support. It seemed like we were at a tourney every other weekend. It was great back then but I don’t think the body could handle it anymore.

I can remember going to watch the Pride play against the WC League all-stars sometime in the late 80s I think it was - there must have been 1000 people in the stands. The good old days!

Q: Where is the best tournament you have ever played in?

A: That’s a hard one. I played in 5 worlds between 1988 – 94 and one Canadian Championship in 1988. They were all pretty special. I guess the next best to that would have been Thetford Mines, Quebec. We won it one year in front of about 8000 fans. They were crazy up there but lots of fun. Our hotel was next to a bar that was open 24 hours during the tourney. I can certainly remember getting yanked out of there a few times in the wee hours of the morning.

Q: Who is the toughest pitcher you have ever faced in fastball?

A: There were lots. I guess the toughest would have been Darren Zack. He could throw hard, but seemed to rely more on changing speeds all the time. It could be a slow or hard rise, slow or hard drop or maybe one of about 5 different speeds of the change up.

Q: As someone with 20+ years experience of playing softball and continuing to compete a high level into your (late?) forties, what's the secret to your longevity?

A: I really do enjoy the game. If it was all about winning I think I would have hung it up years ago. You don’t play this long and not have some years you would like to forget. I wouldn’t say I’m in great shape or anything but as you get a little older you need to be a little easier on the body. I’ve been fortunate as well to stay away from any major injuries. Best of all though, I think it’s getting out with the lads for a few hours and sitting back with a few cold ones afterwards.

Q: If you could change one thing about the GOFL or fastball in general, what would it be?.

A: I don’t know. The guys that run the teams and the league do a great job. I know from running the Carp Valley Pride for a couple of years myself, sometimes it can be a thankless job. As far as changing anything, I guess it would be trying to get kids out more to participate in the sport. I’m not too sure what the numbers are like in the different areas these days but I’m sure more focus on the kids would be good.

Q: What is one thing that most guys in the GOFL probably don’t know about you?

A: I don’t know… maybe it’s that I’m pretty laid back and not too much bothers me. Which is probably another reason why I’m still playing the game. Some folks may have a hard time reading me as I usually keep pretty quiet. But the ones that do know me, really know the truth!

Thanks a lot Coxie for taking the time to be interviewed and good luck this season.

GOFL Week 3

Week three coming up in Greater Ottawa Fastball League play and let's hope that some decent weather is in store so we get the five games in.

There are three games on the books for Wednesday. Kars Aces are slotted to face the Stittsville 56ers at the Grove at 8:30pm. In the doubleheader in Manotick, Carp I4C Victory faces the Ottawa Blitz at 7pm with Fitzroy Harbour WC Electric playing the Barrhaven Broadway Blues at 9pm.

Thursday night in Carp will have Stittsville in to face I4C Victory at 8:30pm, while Quyon Combat Flyers will host their home opener at 8pm against the Blitz. Word is that cheap pints will be on hand post game.

Also scheduled for the May 27-29 in the Williamsburg Tournament. I'll post the schedule when available.

GOFL Wednesday night results - UPDATED

Barrhaven 13 Ottawa 3

In Manotick, the Barrhaven Broadway Blues scored a 13-3 win over the Ottawa Blitz. Trevor Lahey got the win over four innings and Chad Hargrove saw action in relief. Shannon Borho took the loss the Blitzos, and had relief from Derick Bulley. Hargrove had two triples and a homer, Lindsay Medynski had three hits and Joe Allan also had a HR for the Blues. Jamie Blakely had two hits and two runs batted in for the Blitz.

Quyon 9 Stittsville 0

The game in Stittsville saw the 56ers fall 9-0 to the Quyon Combat Flyers in six innings. Drew Hathway had the win with a one-hitter, walking two and striking out 11. Darren Featherstone took the loss allowing 8 hits, walking 8 and striking out 8. Moe Laframboise hit a grand slam for the Flyers, while Ryan Bond had the lone hit for the 56ers.

EMC Article on GOFL Week 1

Thanks to Jeff McGuire for his continuing coverage of fastball in the EMC Newspapers.

Men's fastball season begins with Quyon upsetting defending champs

City of Ottawa announcement

The City of Ottawa release this announcement today. I know some leagues have been asking for exemptions - you may want to check and see if it affects your league.

WC Electric at Carp game postponed on Thursday night

The WC Electric game at Carp I4C Victory on Thursday night has been postponed due to soggy field conditions in Carp. The game will be rescheduled.

Separated at Birth?

A nice photo of Kenny Fleck and the Quyon Flyers going out onto the diamond....uh wait a minute....that's the California A's!

Quyon kids' fastball clinics

Softball fastpitch clinics to be held in Quyon

Three softball fastpitch clinics will be held in Quyon, by Matt Greer, team Quebec senior player.

Clinics will take place before Quyon Flyers games to give the athletes a chance to watch top level fastpitch. The following are the dates confirmed for the clinics.

Pitching : Fri May 27th - 5:00pm in Quyon

Hitting : Thu June 2nd - 5:00pm in Quyon

Defense : Thu June 9th - 5:00 in Quyon

Info on Al's Fastball.

Caveman learns some softball skills and Daddy has a few pints and watches a GOFL game? WE ALL WIN! See you there.

Napanee to have two teams at Junior Nationals

From the Belleville Intelligencer

Napanee swats a double
Town will enter two teams as host of 2011 U23 men's fast-pitch championships
By Paul Svoboda

The 2011 U23 Canadian men's fast-pitch championships are still three months away but Napanee has already swatted a double.

Napanee is the site of the Canadian championships Aug. 8-14 at the Fairgrounds sports complex and it was announced this week that as tournament host and winner of last year's title, the centre can enter two clubs.

The North Key Construction Napanee Express won the Canadian championship in 2010 and have automatically qualified for this year's competition as defending champs. They'll be joined by the Shoeless Joe's Napanee Express as the host team.

Stephen Paul, chairman of the host committee, said having two Napanee teams in the tournament is a bonus for players and supporters. It also marks the first time in the history of the U23 event that the host centre has been allowed to enter two squads.

"We're thrilled to be fielding two teams and it's great for the Napanee fans, great for the tournament and great for the development of fast pitch in Napanee," said Paul. "We have two local teams to cheer for, each with a good opportunity to contend for a medal."

The North Key Construction Express captured the Canadian crown last year with a 6-1 win over the host Nova Scotia Eagles in St. Croix, N.S. They'll compete in the Loughborough League this season, along with the Shoeless Joe's Express.

The high-calibre Loughborough League is celebrating its 50th season this year. Openers were set for tonight.

Softball Canada has held an annual U23 national championship since 1974 with local teams winning on three occasions — the Express in 2010 and 1996, and the North Fredericksburgh Kings in 1986. Overall, Napanee has won five national championships since 1980 (three midget; two junior).

Full tournament passes for this year's U23 competition are $50 and can be purchased at the Strathcona Paper Centre or by calling 613-354-4423. More information is available at www.NapaneeU23.com.

Williamsburg Tourney reminder - Teams needed

from Lyle Schell

Williamsburg is still looking for at least one more team - contact Lyle as per information below.

With spring just around the corner comes another year for The Casey At Bat Memorial Fastball Tourney, in Williamsburg Ont. This will be our 8th year, and I want to thank all previous participants for making it happen.

The tourney will be held on May 27,28,29 2011, and once again I ask that you book your team early as I will only accept the first 12 teams paid.

Prize money will be based on 12 teams. 1st- 1200.00, 2nd 800.00, 3rd 400.00
Entry fee will remain at 350.00
Awards for top hitter, pitcher, mvp and of course the Fan Favorite.
3 game minimum.
BBQ and cold refreshments.

Cheques can be made out to Williamsburg Fastball Tournament.
12785 Froatburn Rd.
Williamsburg Ont.
K0C 2H0

Contact: 613-219-5367

Eastman Cree Nation roster announced

Some local content on the Eastman Cree Nation roster announced today.

As well, a GOFL pitcher on a roster in Iowa.

WC Electric vs Kars postponed

Monday night's GOFL game between West Carleton Electric and Kars Aces has been postponed due to the cold, rainy and generally crappy weather. (If you were on the Twitter, you'd already know this.)

West Carleton Minor Softball was also postponed. This means that Caveman and I spent a quiet evening at home munching on his new favourite snack, "Fire Breathin' Spicy Pickled Green Beans", available at a Metro near you.

Tentatively the WC / Kars game will be rescheduled to make a doubleheader in Fitzroy on Monday July 4.

Summer Community Event Kits Available from Softball Ontario

press release from Softball Ontario

NORTH YORK, ONTARIO- Is your Softball Association planning on attending a local fair, festival or other community event in your area? Are you looking for ways to promote the sport of softball? Would you like to earn points towards achieving or increasing your SAFE STAR Rating? Softball Ontario can help you! To promote the sport of Softball in communities across Ontario, Softball Ontario is making Summer Community Event Kits available to Softball Associations across Ontario.

What is a Summer Community Event Kit?
Softball Ontario’s Summer Community Event Kit allows Softball Associations to obtain promotional items and equipment to help attract people to the ‘Softball Zone’ at their local community events. Softball Associations can borrow their choice of equipment:

an inflatable catcher
a pitching net
a hitting tent
safety bats
safety balls

Associations can also request their choice of promotional items, including:

Play Softball Tattoos
Play Softball Magnets
Play Softball Stickers
Play Softball Pencils
Learn to Play Posters
Learn to Play T-Shirt
Softball Canada Communications Kit

How does my Softball Association qualify to receive a Summer Community Event Kit?
It’s easy! To qualify, your Association must be a member of the Play Softball Network (it’s free and easy to join!) and you will need to submit an Event Report to Softball Ontario following your event.

The Event Report is due to Softball Ontario within one (1) week of each event. Any unused promotional materials, along with the softball equipment, must be returned to Softball Ontario following the event. The Association is responsible for the cost of returning the equipment, however subsidized shipping can be provided through Softball Ontario.

By participating in the Summer Community Event Kit Program your Association will earn eight (8) points towards your SAFE STAR Rating!

If you are interested in receiving a Summer Community Event Kit for your upcoming event, contact Lisa Crompton at lcrompton@softballontario.ca or call 416-426-7150 to request an application form. Summer Community Event Kits are only available while supplies last; apply for yours today!

Softball Ontario is the governing body for the sport of softball in Ontario. Our goal is to promote and develop the sport of softball for its athletes, officials and volunteers by providing programs and services at all levels of competitions.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation is an agency of the Government of Ontario. Their mission is to build healthy and vibrant communities throughout Ontario by strengthening the capacity of the voluntary sector, through investments in community-based initiatives.

GOFL Week 2

Assuming the rain doesn't wash things out (and by this week's weather forecast, that's a big assumption), there are four games on the GOFL schedule for Week 2.

Monday is the home opener for the West Carleton Electric (1-0), hosting the Kars Aces (1-1) at 8:30pm in Fitzroy Harbour.

The ISC will also be releasing their 2011 Pre-Season rankings on Monday - it will be interesting to see how the Quyon Combat Flyers are ranked. The Rankings will be posted first on Twitter @fitzroyfastball - get signed up if you're not already.

Wednesday will see Barrhaven Broadway Blues (0-1) face the Ottawa Blitz (0-2) at 8pm in Manotick, while Quyon Combat Flyers (2-0) will head to the Grove to face the Stittsville 56ers at 8:30pm.

The final game of the week will see WC Electric travel down the Carp Road to face I4C Victory (1-0) at 8:30pm on the Fairgrounds.

Domville hosting Bantam House league tournament

Domville Bantam Boys House League team of the Augusta Minor Softball League is hosting a Tournament June 10-11th. If interest please contact John Severson at sevy@jcis.ca, or 613-802-0512. Please house teams only.

Domville is just north of Prescott.

Millgrove tournament rained out

As per Al's Fastball, via Blair Setford, the Millgrove tournament down near Hamilton was rained out on Sunday.

The Quyon Combat Flyers were entered, finishing 1-2 with a win over Puslinch, a loss to Waterdown Hammer and a loss to Kitchner Outlaws. Score and information posted on Al's site.

Good old days in the Arnprior league

Getting ready now to go the wedding of a former teammate, Ken "The K-Dog" Grenier. Kenny organized the team I used to play on in the now defunct Arnprior Men's Fastball League.

The first year we played as the Arnprior Arrows in 1990 (sponsored by the local funeral home) and we were just out of high school and looking to play some men's ball. There were lots of good players in the league including local pitching legend Artie Cameron.

A 2-22 inaugral season didn't discourage us, and by 1993 and 1994, now under the sponsporship of the local Prior Sports Bar, we managed to win the league championship. If you're ever in the 'Prior, check out their wall of fame and a long-haired Fitzroy Fastball in the championship photos.

Kenny was - and is - a character. I'll never forget the time he quit the team in a rage, handing the reins over to yours truly, only to show up to our next league game on rollerblades and telling us he'd quit fastball to take up that trendy-at-the-time activity. The K-dog organized a few tournaments in Arnprior as well. The old Alfred team from east of Ottawa won that a couple of years - I can remember hearing French ball chatter for the first time. Current NHLer Benoit Pouliot's father, the late Sylvain Pouliot, threw for Alfred.

I think the most interesting claim to fame for the old Prior Sports Bar team was the fact that we had a 28-fingered outfield. Now I had all my digits in left field, but centre fielder "Nine-fingered" Wes Desarmia had previously blown off a finger in a duck hunting accident, and the right fielder, taxi driver Dean Wright, had done battle with a waterski rope that twisted off the end of one of his thumbs.

Kenny was the guy that got me into playing men's fastball and for that I'm thankful to him....even if he did retire to take up roller blading.

New Edinburgh league

I thought I knew about all the fastball leagues in eastern Ontario, but I learned about a new one this past week.

One of my coworkers, hearing that I played fastball, mentioned that he played in the New Edinburgh Men's Fastball League. They have a recreational four team league that plays Wednesdays and Thursdays at Stanley Park in downtown Ottawa.

Sounds like a fun league with a wide age range and differing skill levels. Nice to hear of another fastball league keeping the sport alive.

Good luck to all teams in the New Edinburgh league for the 2011 season.

GOFL Week 1 Round Up

The first week of the GOFL season saw five games played.

Quyon Combat Flyers won both games of their two game 'road trip', defeating Kars Aces on Tuesday in the league opener in North Gower 8-4 and the Barrhaven Broadway Blues 5-0 in Manotick on Wednesday in the early game of the double dip. The Aces defeated the Ottawa Blitz 10-2 in six innings in the late game of the doubleheader.

Quyon manager Kenny Fleck did a little "media promotion" on Wednesday morning on the Team 1200, resulting in at least a couple of extra fans showing up to the games in Manotick, including an elderly lady who was almost in tears she was so excited to finally find some to good fastball to watch.

West Carleton Electric started with a big win on Wednesday at the Grove, with a 10-3 victory in six innings over the Stittsville 56ers.

The week wrapped up on Thursday with I4C Victory getting in the win column, defeating the Blitz 8-6 in a back-and-forth game at the Carp Fairgrounds.

Check out the standings and stats at the league website GOFL.ca. As well, to get the scores as soon as they are reported, follow @fitzroyfastball on Twitter.

Trend-Arlington League starts the 2011 season

from Kevin O'Grady

After a long winter of anticipation, the Trend-Arlington Men's Fastball League began regular season action on Wednesday night.

The early game saw Durabuilt claim a narrow 6-5 victory over Goodfellows Cleaners. Bucky Richer was the starting pitcher, with relief from Gord Flannery. Gord had a great night at the plate as well, hitting a bomb on the first pitch he saw this season.

In the late game, PJ Quigley's opened the season with their sticks a-blazin' to claim a 12-5 victory over Ed Taylor's Shamrocks. Kevin Wilson picked up the win with relief from Steve Vukic. James O'Brien went yard for PJ's. Fern Lefebvre and Ivan Taylor shared pitching duties for the Shamrocks.

I4C defeats Blitz 8-6 in Carp on Thursday

from Eric Rosenquist

Some new faces helped the I4C Victory squad start the 2011 season with an 8-6 win over the Ottawa Blitz Thursday night in Carp.

Bill Gerber pitched 3 shutout innings, allowing only one walk and striking out 3 before giving way to former North Gower pitcher Ryan Chatten at the start of the 4th inning. Chatten went 2⅔ innings, striking out two and giving up two earned runs. Neil Cooke took over with 2 out and the tying run on first in the 6th to earn the save.

On the offensive side, Carp newcomers Bobby-Jack Hart, Derek Dumond, and Matt Medaglia all contributed with Hart driving in a run, Dumond reaching twice and stealing a base, and Medaglia reaching base on a pair of walks.

Everyone in the Carp line-up contributed something on the evening, which turned out to be necessary as the scrappy Blitz team were determined to keep the game close.

Carp got on the board when Aaron Amo led off the bottom of the 1st with a double to left. He advanced to 3rd on a wild pitch and was brought home on a single by catcher Bobby-Jack Hart. Carp increased their lead in the 2nd inning when Brooks Paziuk hit a single, was bunted to second by Derek Dumond, then scored on a Tony MacDonald single. Carp's third run came in the bottom of the 3rd when third baseman Eric Colvin hit a lead off single and advanced to third on a single by Hart. With runners at the corners, Hart attempted to steal second, then allowed himself to get caught in a run-down just long enough for Colvin to score from 3rd on the play. A two-out rally later the same inning saw Brooks Paziuk reach on an error and then come around to score after singles by Dumond and Tony MacDonald.

The Blitz got on the scoreboard in the top of the 4th when a pair of one-out errors brought Derick Bulley home and a two-out single by Blitz pitcher Jamie Blakely cashed in catcher Tony Searle.

Carp answered with two runs of its own in the bottom of the 4th with Aaron Amo and Eric Colvin each scoring their second run of the game. Amo reached on a dropped third strike, stole second, and was brought home when Colvin singled. Derick Bulley relieved Blakely with no one out and Colvin on second, Colvin having taken second on the throw to the plate. Bulley managed to retire the next three Carp batters, but had a couple of wild pitches along the way, allowing Colvin to move to third and then score.

The 6-2 Carp lead quickly evaporated however when the Blitz scored 3 in the top of the 5th thanks to a Carp error and singles by Adam Grier, Jon Ferguson, Tony Searle, and Will Mood.

Carp made it 7-5 in the bottom of the 5th when Derek Dumond walked, stole second, and then took 3rd on a passed-ball. Tony MacDonald followed Dumond with another walk, then gave way to pinch runner Eric Rosenquist with no one out. With Matt Medaglia at the plate, Rosenquist took second uncontested. Bulley struck out Medaglia and then got Neil Drummond to ground into a fielder's choice that saw Dumond tagged out at home plate. With runners at the corners, Amo hit his second single of the game to score Rosenquist from third. A fielder's choice off the bat of Eric Colvin got the Blitz out of the inning.

Not to be outdone, the Blitz countered with a run in the top of the 6th, scoring Derek Bergeron who had taken over for an injured Anil Hayne mid-way through the game. Bergeron led off with a single, was bunted to second by Grier, and scored on a two-out single by Andrew Bruce. With Bruce representing the tying run, Neil Cooke came in to pitch for Carp, and after a number of full-count foul balls, managed to strike out Marcel Mondoux. Mondoux had pinch-run for Jon Ferguson in the 5th inning and then remained in the game.

Carp added some insurance in the bottom of the 6th when lead-off hitter Bobby-Jack Hart reached on an error and was bunted to second by Shawn Simzer. With a runner in scoring position, the injured Al Read came in to run for Hart and was promptly driven home by Brooks Paziuk's second single of the game.

Neil Cooke gave up a hit and a walk in the top of the seventh, but managed to retire the side without allowing any Blitz runs.

Final score: Carp I4C Victory 8 - Ottawa Blitz 6

Aaron Amo: 2/4, SB, 2R, RBI, SB
Eric Colvin: 2/4, 2R, RBI
Brooks Paziuk: 2/4, 2R, RBI
Tony MacDonald: 2/3, 2RBI
Derek Dumond: 1/2, BB, SAC, SB

Bill Gerber: 3IP, 0ER
Ryan Chatten: 2⅔, 2ER
Neil Cooke: 1⅓, 0ER

Kars 10-2 over Blitz on Wednesday

by Cory Morrison

Kars picked up their first win of the season Wednesday night with a 10-2 decision over the Ottawa Blitz in 6 innings in Manotick.

Scoring Highlights

Kars

Top 1st
Cory Morrison homered to put Kars up 1-0

Top 2nd
Kristain Knapp tripled to score Curtis Summers and Brad Pender homered to put Kars up 4-0

Bottom 2nd
Derick Bulley hit solo shot to cut lead to 4-1

Top 3rd
Matt Alkerton doubled to score Cory Alkerton 5-1

Top 4th
Chad Milne Singled to score Knapp 6-1

Bottom 4th
Derick Bulley homered again, to pretty much the same spot, 6-2

Top 6
Cory Morrison singled to score Pender and Dave Tubman hit a 3-run shot to round out the scoring 10-2

Brad Porter W 6IP 2Runs 5Hits 1BB 8K's
Derek Bully L 6IP 10Runs 13Hits 4BB 6K's

Batters

Brad Pender 2/4 HR 1B SB K 2Rbi 2Runs
Kristain Knapp 2/4 3B 1B Rbi 2Runs
Cory Morrison 2/4 HR 1B 2Rbi 2Runs
Dave Tubman 1/3 HR 3Rbi's BB

Blitz

Derek Bulley 2/3 2HR's 2Rbi 2Runs
Jamie Blakely 2/3 2(1B)

Blogger offline

Blog updates were put on hold the last couple of days due to a system problem with the website....but we're back in action.

Quyon wins opener vs Kars - updated

Quyon Upends Kars 8-4 to start GOFL Season
by Cory Morrison

Quyon jumped out to a 5-0 lead on the strength of a 2Rbi double off the bat of Drew Hathway and never looked back as they dumped Kars 8-4 in North Gower on Tuesday night.

Matt Greer got the win going 5 innings giving up 3 runs while Drew Hathway got the save giving up 1 run over 2 innings.

Brad Porter took the loss giving up 5 runs (3 earned) over 4 1/3 while Cory Alkerton finished the game giving up 3 (2 earned) runs over 2 2/3

Top Batters

Quyon

Nick Armitage – 3/5 - 2B, 2 1B’s, SB, 2 ROE
Drew Hathway – 2/5 - 2B, 1B, 3 RBI, FC, K
Luke Young - 2/5 - 2 1B’s, 2K’s, SB
Curtis Daley – 2/4 - 2 1B’s, k

Kars

Brad Pender 1/1 1B, BB, SB, HBP, SAC, RBI, Run
Cory Alkerton 1/3 1B, 2Rbi, 2K's
Cory Morrison 1/4 1B, FC, Rbi, Run
Kristain Kanpp 1/3 1B, BB, 2K's 2 Runs Scored

West Carleton defeats Stittsville 10-3 at the Grove

Fitzroy Harbour West Carleton Electric defeated the Stittsville 56ers by a score of 10-3 in six innings of GOFL play at the Grove on Wednesday night in the debut game for both teams.

Jeff Barber earned the win for the ‘Trics, with Steve Cavanagh getting the save. Darren Featherstone took the loss with relief from Adam Smith in his first North American game since returning from the South Korean league.

While GOFL historic data is sketchy / non-existent, it’s believed that at least four records were set in the game:
1) Longest six inning game on record: 2h20min
2) Most walks, both teams: 26
3) Most runners left on base, both teams: 30
4) Most innings ended with the bases loaded: 8 (4 times each)

The home team scored in the bottom of the first frame. Scott Herriott walked, moved to second on a Dan Jessiman walk, then scored when Darren Featherstone reached on error put the 56ers up 1-0.

The Electric tied the game at 1-1 in the second. Neil Murphy walked, moved to second on Dave Bahm’s sacrifice bunt. Jeff Cavanagh and Beef Johnson both walked to load the bases and Murphy scored on a wild pitch.

Fitzroy took the lead for good in the third. Andy Barber and Murphy both walked, then scored on Bahm’s three run shot to right field. Jeff Cavanagh then singled, moved to second on a passed ball and scored on Mitch Taylor’s RBI single to put the Electric up 5-1.

Stittsville made things close by scoring a pair in the fourth. Mike Barrett walked. Then after a flyout, John Craig also walked. Dan Jessiman hit a single to cash Barrett. Featherstone walked to load the bases and Craig scored on Dan Bradley’s sacrifice fly to centre.

The ‘Trics added a run in the fifth when Derek Barber scored after four consecutive walks.

A four-run sixth for the Electric sealed the victory. Adam Brown reached on an error and Shawn Ryan and Mitch Taylor both walked to load the bases. Jon Daley’s single cashed two runs, followed by an RBI single by Steve Cavanagh and an RBI on a fielder’s choice for Murphy.

Pitching:

Fitzroy
Jeff Barber (WIN) 4IP 3R 2ER 3H 8K 8BB
Steve Cavanagh (SAVE) 2IP 0R 2H 5K 3BB

Stittsville
Darren Featherstone (LOSS) 5IP 6R 6ER 6H 5K 12BB
Adam Smith 1IP 4R 2ER 2H 0K 3BB

Hitting:

Fitzroy
Jon Daley 2-5, R, 2RBI
Derek Barber 1-3, 2BB, R
Andy Barber 0-2, 3BB, R
Steve Cavanagh 1-1, RBI
Neil Murphy 0-1, 4BB, RBI, 2R
Dave Bahm 2-4, HR, 3RBI
Jeff Cavanagh 1-2, R, B
Mitch Taylor 1-2, R, RBI, BB

Stittsville
Scott Herriot 1-3, R, BB
Dan Jessiman 2-2, R, RBI, BB
Dan Bradley RBI
Adam Smith 1-4, 2B
Ben Giggliotti 1-1

GOFL Wednesday night results

Wednesday night GOFL results:

Quyon 5 Barrhaven 0

Drew Hathway had the win with a complete game for Quyon. Paul Ceppi took the loss allowing two earned runs with relief from Trevor Lahey (1 ER) and Jason Smith. Matt Greer had a 2-run HR and Steve McCord a solo HR.

Kars 10 Blitz 2 (6 innings)

Derick Bulley took the loss pitching but had two solo homeruns in a losing cause for the Blitz.

Fitzroy Harbour 10 Stittsville 3 (6 innings)

See story to follow.

GOFL Week 1

Well, after what seems like a very long winter the 2011 GOFL season is finally ready to begin with Week 1.

Tuesday night features a rematch of the 2010 final, with the Quyon COMBAT Flyers playing the Kars Aces at 8pm in North Gower.

The Fitzroy Harbour West Carleton Electric open their season on Wednesday night at 8:30 in Stittsville to face the 56ers.

The doubleheader in Manotick has Quyon at Barrhaven Broadway Blues in the 7pm starter with the Aces facing the Ottawa Blitz in the 9pm game.

Thursday sees Carp I4C Victory in their home opener at 8:30pm with the Blitzos in town.

Be sure to follow all the action on www.GOFL.ca.

Caveman heaven

The family is planning a southern vacation next year in an all-inclusive venue. Mrs Fastball was explaining the excitement to Fitzroy Junior and the Caveman - plane trip, sunny weather, swimming, kids activites, etc.

Caveman of course wanted to know more about the food. He asked about breakfast.

"Mommy, will there be bacon?"

"Yes Caveman"

"Every day?"

"Yes Caveman"

"As much as I want?"

"Yes Caveman"

"Woo hoo!"

Gotta hand it to him, his priorities are clear.

Article on Jim Bradford Classic

A newspaper article on the Jim Bradford Classic tournament via FastpitchWest. I've been to the tournament the last three years, but will miss this one in 2011 unfortunately. Steve Bedard and his gang do a good job and it attracts lots of good ball. If you going, I recommend renting a "suite" at the luxurious Motel 401. That's some top quality accommodations there let me tell ya.

COBOURG -- For the 21st edition of the local fastball tournament this year, the Jim Bradford Classic has a new home.

Organizer Steve Bedard said the Classic will be held this year at Legion Fields in Cobourg, the weekend of June 10 to 12.

Due to the challenge of finding a sufficient number of volunteers the past few years, Bedard has handed the reigns off to Cobourg Legion Minor Softball Organization, which will run the tournament that weekend with their volunteers. Bedard, meanwhile, is still involved.

"They will get all the profits," Bedard said. "It's a fundraiser for minor ball."

For the first 16 years, the tournament was held in Baltimore before moving to Grafton for the past four years. The existing tournament was renamed in memory of Jim Bradford following his death in 2001.

Bradford, who was from Baltimore, was the only nationally recognized Level 5 umpire in both fast-pitch and slo-pitch. In 2003, he was inducted into Softball Canada's Hall of Fame.

Bedard is grateful for the few dedicated volunteers who did help run the Classic the last few years, and also expressed gratitude to arena manager Dave Harnden who looked after the diamonds.

"I want to thank Dave Harnden for all his hard work down in Grafton," Bedard remarked.

As many as 16 teams (in the past they've come from Ontario, Quebec and the United States) are expected to compete, highlighted by the host Cobourg Force. In addition to several local players, the Force are expected to have International Softball Congress (ISC) hall-of-fame pitcher Darren Zack in the lineup, Bedard noted.

A new addition to the weekend this year will be a home run derby, expected to take place during the Saturday afternoon.

More information about the tournament will be available in the coming weeks.

Midget Tournament in Waterloo

from the OASA

Midget Boys' Invitational Tournament, June 11, 12 Hillside Park, Waterloo has hosted a Midget Invitational Tournament the past 16 seasons; sometimes with up to 16 teams. This year the tournament is in danger of being cancelled. Waterloo needs a guarantee of 8 participating teams by May 10 in order to go ahead with holding this event. Any interested Midget team is urged to contact the host ASAP. There are few pure midget tournament opportunities in Ontario. We would not wish to lose this one. More information for this tournament format and contact information is available at www.oasa.ca/tournaments.htm and click on Rep Team Invitational.

Legends Tournament

from Al's Fastball

LEGENDS BRINGS TRUE INTERNATIONAL FLAVOUR TO KITCHENER, JUNE 23 TO 26, 2011

The 8th annual Legends of Fastball Classic is proud to announce its 2011 lineup will be a true international test of skills. One of the premier club tournaments in the game, Legends will feature not only some of the best North American teams but this year will include both the touring New Zealand Black Sox and the Argentina Men’s National Team .Throw in the reigning ISC World Champion Jarvis Travelers, the much anticipated and re-built Chicago – New York squad, perennial fastball battlers the Midland Explorers and the Owen Sound Verge Selects and the dust will surely be flying around the base paths at Peter Hallman Ball Yard.

The local teams will have their hands full but with former ISC II champions Port Elgin Blue Devils and Kitchener Cubs in the mix and the always tough Elmira Erb Expos gaining strength there will surely be upsets throughout the weekend.

The final team in the 10 team, 2 division, round-robin senior side of the Legends Classic will feature the Quyon COMBAT Flyers, from Quyon , Quebec. The host committee is proud to have the Flyers make their first trip down Hwy 401 to take part in this years event.

The junior side of the tournament will expand this year to feature 6 local junior teams, who will be using Legends to tune up for the Ontario championships a couple weeks later in their schedule. The lineup this year will include the New Dundee Dodgers, Southern Ontario Jays, Waterloo Cardinals, Linwood Junior Chiefs, Tavistock Juniors and the Owen Sound Volkswagen Select Juniors. These 6 teams will each battle through a 5 game round-robin schedule with the top 2 teams advancing to a winners game on Sunday.

With the expanded junior division and two National teams participating, the event will start this year on Thursday night June 23, with games on 3 separate diamonds. The juniors start at 6:00 p.m. while the senior side starts with 2 games at both 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. Games will continue again with a similar schedule on Friday, then get right into it Saturday at 8:00 a.m. on all 3 diamonds. The playoffs will run through Sunday afternoon June 26.

Tickets will be available at the gate on all 4 days.

For information on the 2011 Legends of Fastball Classic contact Dennis Dosman at dennisdosman@dosmanprinting.com or Larry Lynch at llynch9@rogers.com

Millgrove Early Bird Tournament

With the rain, cold and generally crappy weather, it's hard to believe there is a tournament coming up, but there is - in Millgrove next weekend May 13 to 15.

The Quyon Combat Flyers are the only local team entered in the twelve team tournament and here is the schedule.

Friday
7pm Elmira v Palermo Lower
9pm Diamond Jaxx v Linwood Lower

7pm Hammer v Outlaws Upper
9pm Cobourg v Toronto Upper

Saturday
8:30 Quyon v Puslinch Lower
9:00 Ohsweken v Waterloo Upper
10:30 Palermo v Jaxx Lower
11:00 Quyon v Hammer Upper
12:30 Outlaws v Puslinch Lower
1:00 Cobourg v Waterloo Upper
2:30 Elmira v Linwood Lower
3:00 Ohsweken v Toronto Upper
4:30 Quyon v Outlaws Lower
5:00 Toronto v Waterloo Upper
6:30 Linwood v Palermo Lower
7:00 Hammer v Puslinch Upper
8:30 Elmira v Jaxx Lower
9:00 Cobourg v Ohsweken Upper

Sunday - playoff round

Woodstock May 2-4 tournament needs one more team

Woodstock Victoria Day Tournament

We are in search for one more team to fill our tournament to 16 teams

This tournament runs
May 21st, 22nd, 23rd

Tournament Format will be an "A", "B" & "C" Division Finals
Based on 16 teams:
-There will be 4 Pools of 4 Teams
-Top 3 teams in each pool will be sent into their respective divisional finals
-12 of 16 teams will advance to the play-of round on Monday
-$3000.00 in Prize Money to be awarded

There will again be a licensed beer garden, with food.
There is a Midway with rides for the kids of all ages.
Victoria Day Parade on the Monday Morning.

Entry Fee is $375.00

For more information please contact

Cory Winkworth
Phone: 519-425-4292
cory_winkworth(at)hotmail.com

or

Darryl Wharram
Phone: 519-521-0156
d.wharram(at)on.aibn.com

Harbour Ball preview

Last but not least, the 2011 "Harbour Ball" season opens on Sunday May 8 in Fitzroy Harbour.

The Fitzroy Harbour Men's Fastball League has 8 teams this season - seven local men's teams plus a local Midget team.

The league plays Wednesday nights, with occasional Sunday night games until minor softball is done. The league will be bringing back the annual tournament in June this year.

Harbour Ball is a great mix of young and old, featuring everything from ages 60+ to teenagers playing recreational fastball - just like in the old days before everyone started playing slowpitch. Some of the FHMFL pitching greats this year include "Willy White Shoes", "The Bird", "Stovepipe Willie", and "Grumpy Cliff".

So endeth the round up of other men's leagues in the area for 2011. Word is that the Upper Ottawa Valley Men's Fastball League will not be playing this season. Any other updates can be sent to fastball[at]fitzroyharbour.com.

Trend Arlington league back at it for 2011

The Trend Arlington League, in the Nepean area, will have four teams playing this season on Mondays and Wednesdays.

The four teams for 2011 are Goodfellows, PJ Quigley's, Durabuilt and the Taylor Shamrocks.

"The Glen" to play its 40th season

The Glen Cairn Men's Fastball League is ready to start its 40th season of fastball in Kanata. This season the Glen will feature 10 teams who will play 16 regular season games, plus the annual June tournament.

This year's squads are: Mattamy Homes, Broadway Bar and Grill, Don Cherry's, Laurysen Kitchens, East Side Mario's, Taggart's Welding, Darcy McGee's, Federal Accessibility, ASAP Print Management and Ottawa Home Services.

Blackburn league ready to start

The Blackburn Men's Fastball League is ready to start play - once the rain stops - with 8 teams this season playing on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays in the east end of Ottawa.

This year's eight teams are: Gloucester Heating, Guzzlers, Mr. Electric, Good Ol' Boys, Knights, Goodfellow Cleaners, Exit A's and the Rogues.

North Leeds league has 4 teams

Our ace reporter from Greenbush, Terry McCann, reports that the North Leeds Men's Fastball League has 4 teams this season: Brockville, Eastons Corners, Newboro and Greenbush. They are playing a 12 game season, once a week on Thursdays starting May 26.

Quyon Flyers announce tournament roster

Kenny Fleck has announced via Twitter the Quyon Combat Flyers tournament roster for 2011, as posted on Al's Fastball:

Langford Joel 2 IF Orleans, Ontario
Armitage Nick 7 OF/IF Quyon, Quebec
Cunningham Dylan 8 IF Belwood, Ontario
Laframboise Shawn 15 OF Shawville, Quebec
Morrison Cory 19 OF Alberton, PEI
Hargrove Chad 21 P Orleans, Ontario
Greer Matt 22 IF Shawville, Quebec
McCleary Joe 25 C Shawville, Quebec
Tubman Dave 26 Util Ottawa, Ontario
Graham Joran 28 P Micksburg, Ontario
Savard Steve 43 IF Pont-Rouge, Quebec
Hathway Drew 47 P Brampton, Ontario
Baker Michael 51 OF Quyon, Quebec

Softball alive and well in West Carleton

I attended the Softball Ontario "Learn to Coach" clinic at the Fitzroy Harbour Community Centre today, along with 14 other coaches from Fitzroy, Carp and Kinburn.

Ken Naylor, former president of the Orleans Amateur Fastball Association led the session, which was very well received by the coaches in attendance.

The tips, resources and materials were quite excellent. I'd highly recommend the course to any minor softball coach. I can't wait to get out on the diamonds with Fitzroy Junior and the Caveman and try some of the new drills we learned.

Good work Ken, and Softball Ontario!

The skills clinic that Ottawa U Geegees Ladies fastball team was also a success in Kinburn on Friday night as about 50 local West Carleton kids came out to get some get training from Scott Searle and the ladies. Fitzroy Junior and the Caveman really enjoyed the evening.

Minor Softball is alive and well in West Carleton!