2014

Tournament Summary

 

2014 was quite a day for the tournament, weather had been ‘iffy’ all week long, then comes Friday and Saturday with a perfect day both for the tournament and the weather!! Thank you Justin! 2014 will be the Tenth Annual Softball Tournament, and as we plan for the special day, we will continue to honor Justin and our charitable efforts with support from the players, volunteers, fans and sponsors. We feel we can have a deeper impact in the Lehigh Valley community, its charities and programs as a result of this year’s tournament’s success. To see information on our charities you can click on this link: Charity page-9 The games started earlier at 8:45AM with a special opening ceremony at 8:30 AM, on the main softball field. We were fortunate to have the scholarship winners return and they were able to throw out the first pitch. It is amazing to see what the scholarship winners have accomplished and where they are today. To view an update click on this link: Scholarship Winners Thus the day was kicked off, teams starting playing, auction opened up, Grumpy’s and Trixie’s arrived with their goodies.   Hawk radio RV was set up and broadcasting live, with interviews and additional information about the tournament, sponsored by VINART.  At 11 activities started, with tie dying and bracelet weaving for the kids, a speed pitch machine was set up with winners in three categories. At 3 PM there was a lot of excitement,  Steve Carlton, ex Phillie and a Hall of Fame player made an appearance to sign autographs, and participate in the tournament.  Well respected and loved by his fans, he was most welcoming and friendly to crowds.  We were so pleased to have him be part of the tournament.  Later he was one of the judges in the Mocktail contest, sponsored by Red Robin, and in its seventh year of being part of the tournament.  Keith Groller once again lent his support by emceeing the contest, the competition once again was close. Big Red was also on hand to be part of the Mocktail and visiting with the kids. Click on the Mocktail tab for some pictures, and information on the winner. Always one of the favorite moments of the tournament for everyone involved, is the group picture. This year there was a surprise for Linda Sheftel, one of her dear friends made a quilt for her from all the tournament T-shirts, and with pictures of Justin, baseball stitching and other touches.  She was truly surprised and very touched, Elliot, Sasha and her sister Missy all had a hand in the idea. A 50/50 raffle was be held every hour starting at noon until 8:15pm. Great prizes were given out every hour with the final drawing at the championship game. This year was the biggest prize ever, $500. The day continued with the Home Run Derby at 6 PM. Sponsored by Applebees, with a Men and Women’s group competing. Championship games were played with both the Men’s and Women’s teams repeating, with the Young Ones winning the Men’s and Diamond Gals winning the Women’s. Great day, smooth day, wonderful weather.  Justin is giving us all a big thumbs up. Thank you.