Chatham O'Donaghue's Ironmen
Provincial Champions 2011
2011 RECAP
It is almost sad to see the
year 2011 come to an end. From the first workouts at the Golden Hawk to the final out in Fredericton, 2011 was a special year
for the Ironmen.
The team looked like contenders from Day 1, and with the addition of import
Kyle Gilligan, they solidified their status.
Who can forget the Nationals, with 1500 people
showing up for a Home Run Derby. The return of Robbie Murphy to Ironmen red and his outstanding pitching performance, the
night Matt Jenkins showed everyone why he is a big game pitcher , and JF Neveu showing his stuff in a big game situation
and Jason Dickson showing not only his pitching prowess but his leadership as well. These efforts were acknowledge by
the fans in a way that hadn't been seen at the park in quite a while.
How about the
catch by Tom Burns in left. A game saver for sure and timely hitting throughout by all.
The season showed what was to come with Orry Cook stealing bases, Burns and Jon Saunders providing power and a pitching staff
next to none in the province.
Kevin Bowes pitched a complete nine inning win,
a real rarity now with seven inning games to clinch first place in Moncton.
The
final was a match the fans looked for, Fredericton and the Ironmen. There were many dramatic moments and turning points in
the final and one huge play was "The Throw" by Tyson Waye to keep the Ironmen momentum.
The
final game in the series was in Fredericton, where you knew Derek Wilson was going to be on his game. Another big spot for
him and you just knew the Royals weren't going to beat him that night. Another big game for Derek.
How about the "Skittles" Home Run by Darren Hardy to win the championship.
I know I have probably left out some plays and players that stood out, but it was such a magical year and heroics were
numerous.
Finally , but definitely not least, the fans, Ironmen fans, were
outstanding (outstanding doesn't do justice, it was greater) and this really fueled the Ironmen on their march.
And as 2011 winds down, the Ironmen would like to wish all its players and
fans a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Only 93 days to April
