Extra images from Italy’s 11-6 win over Milford to secure a 1st round bye
Milford Bulldog catcher Bryan Fedrick exits a meeting at the mound and then returns to home plate with Frederick and his teammates hoping to grind out a win against Italy. (Barry Byers)
Milford — Yes, it was a district rivalry game between between neighboring towns and there’s no doubt both squads were desperately wanting to secure at least a piece of the district title. For both, the Italy Gladiators and the Milford Bulldogs, the game this past Friday marked the end of an era for several athletes who had grown up together as teammates as part of the Italy Youth Athletic Association (IYAA).
Some players have come and gone but a core group of players that were competing against one another knew each other as well as one opponent could ever hope to know another. At one time their combined team was called the “Gladiadogs” just to give you an understanding of the closeness and mutual respect between the players.
And thru the familiarity one heck of a baseball game unfolded with both sides wanting to perform well during their final district matchup of the 2014 season. There were several big hits and several close plays on the bases. Italy surged to an early 6-0 lead before a late rally by Milford gave Italy a scare. In the end, the Gladiators held on for an 11-5 win and the claim of an undisputed district championship.
The Gladiators are currently 8-0 in district play with two games district remaining. They are now the automatic bi-district champion and will enter the area playoff round as a number one seed. It has just been a tremendous effort by the Gladiators who erased any doubt about what they were capable of once district began.
For myself, and former pee-wee coaches Ty Evans and Louis Essary, who were also monitoring the action on the field just behind the fences, Friday’s game was a thrill. Just as it was in game one, to watch our former players giving it their all, supporting their teammates, respecting their opponent and playing with class have been priceless moments for us. The experience had finally come full circle and what a great feeling it was to watch all the players mingle and congratulate one another afterwards, greeting each other with big smiles and hugs. I must say, it brought a tear to my one good eye to witness the outstanding young men they have become…