Port Clements was alive with softball Saturday as seven teams from Haida Gwaii and one from Kitwanga met for a thrilling Canada Days tournament.
The Youngins’ Levi Burton delivered the highlight of the day in a game against the Cousins. Down going into the final inning, Burton hit a grand slam that turned the game around.
The ladies’ game was a standout, showcasing a thrilling back-and-forth with both teams displaying exceptional skills and sportsmanship, making it a can’t-miss spectacle.
The Renegades from Kitwanga celebrated their first and only win of the tourney against the All Nighters.
In other games, the Grinders upset the Warriors on day one, and the Sons of Pitches defeated the E-Lemonators.
The Youngins returned to the field for the twilight game, but their earlier magic didn’t hold, and they lost to the Sons of Pitches.
Sunday’s action kicked off with another Grinders victory, this time against the Renegades. The Renegades faced the Cousins immediately after, but the Cousins proved too strong, delivering the first knockout of the tournament and sending the Renegades home to Kitwanga.
In a highly anticipated matchup, the Hospital Days and league-champion Warriors took on the Youngins. It was a nail-biter, with the Youngins pulling off a massive upset. Levi Burton once again showcased his clutch play, making a highlight-reel catch on a hard-hit line drive to end the game.
The Grinders continued their winning streak by defeating the Sons of Pitches, earning a spot in the final.
The Cousins, seeking revenge against the Youngins, capitalized on the fatigue of the youthful team following their intense game against the Warriors. The rested Cousins showed no mercy, ensuring their place in the finals of the losers’ bracket.
“We tried to make a team last year—it didn’t work out,” said the Cousins’ River Michealoff. “This year we got kids to play, it’s just amazing how far we were able to go.”
“We might be missing a couple of guys next summer, but we will see how it goes,” he added. “We look forward to putting a team in the league and making a name for ourselves.”
The Cousins faced the daunting task of playing a doubleheader, this time against the Sons of Pitches. It was a tight contest, but the Cousins emerged victorious, securing a final against the Grinders.
The Grinders, who had a lengthy break between games, enjoyed the festive atmosphere of the Beer Gardens. Despite concerns about their readiness, a passing fan said, “A trip to the Beer Gardens actually seems to help the Grinders play!” And he was right.
The Grinders took an early lead in the championship match and managed to withstand a minor Cousins comeback. Ultimately, the Grinders took control and won the championship, ending a five-year title drought.
“It feels pretty good,” said long-time Grinder Mike Fladmark.
“This one is for Gup and Kyle.”