World Series Opening Ceremonies

Photo courtesy of Jim Hannon

of Times Daily Newspaper

Opening Ceremonies for the World Series will definitely be a night that the Chobee boys will never forget. The boys strutted into the park sporting the new uniforms that were graciously donated by Matt Orr with Waste Services, Inc. The park was humming with the excitement of anxious young men and proud families. The air was filled with booming music as the teams all lined up outside the fence by the third baseline. As each team was called the boys made their entrance through the gate, flying their state flag as the team members’ and coaches’ names were announced to the rowdy crowd. David Skinner, the perfect example of sportsmanship and team spirit, was the player chosen by our team to carry the Florida State flag. As the boys entered the gate, the Chobee, or should I now say, Florida State Champion fans erupted into thunderous applause and cheers that made all those in the park take notice of Team Florida! The boys followed David as he placed the flag in its appropriate place on the fence near right-center field.

Following the announcement of teams, several Dixie Youth Baseball Officials were announced and spoke, as well as David H. Bradford, the Mayor of Muscle Shoals, Alabama. A tear rendering version of the National Anthem had most boys on the field visibly moved, as well as those standing outside the fence.

As if this all wasn’t enough, the boys were invited to take a seat on the field, as “Sweet Home, Alabama” came sounding from the speakers behind the backstop. Then the sky lit up like the fourth of July. An awe inspiring fireworks display that continued for quite some time, ending in a grand finale seemed to draw every emotion from each and every individual in attendance. You could see it in the faces of everyone … we are really here. WORLD SERIES, HERE WE COME!

Just a reminder, we play at 4:00 against Mississippi tomorrow. It is my understanding that the games on the green field will be shown on local TV here. We are scheduled for the green field, so hopefully we will be taped. It is supposed to be copied for the boys so hopefully we can bring back some special memories to share with all those who could not attend. Win or lose, we will face either Virginia or Tennessee on Sunday. The losers bracket plays at 4:00 PM and the winner plays at 7:00 PM. I will try my best to at least put up inning by inning scores via cell phone so you might check the blog often after 4:00 PM. (Remember to refresh to get new scores.)

Here we go, Florida! Here we go!!!