Team fights for championship

Photo By Cpl. Justin Wheeler | Christopher Wine, with the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing softball team, prepares to swing at an incoming softball during a match against the Marine Corps Base Camp Butler team during the Western Pacific Regional Softball Tournament championship, Aug. 13.  

OKINAWA, JAPAN

08.14.2010

Story by Lance Cpl. Justin Wheeler 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

OKINAWA, Japan - After six years without a championship win, the 3rd Marine Logistics Group softball team defeated the two-time winning titans of the region, the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, in the Western Pacific Regional Softball Tournament Aug. 14.

Defeated earlier by the 1st MAW in the round robin portion of the competition, 3rd MLG became confident in a rematch during the upcoming championship against the 1st MAW, said Travis Oakley, coach of the 3rd MLG softball team.

In the final moments of the championship match, 3rd MLG needed one more run to win the game. One accurate hit by Ron Webb, placed a ball outfield and two players at home plate to give 3rd MLG two points and their championship win.

"This has really brought us together," said Oakley.

As the team gathered, engulfed with happiness of their victory, 3rd MLG team rookie Justin Franklin said, "Thanks for the first regional guys!"

The team circled and recollected about the game before two team members appeared and drenched 3rd MLG coach with the team's remaining water. Oakley, who was awarded top coach of the tournament, continued to treasure the final moments.

"I'm glad to be a part of it," said Oakley about his team's accomplishment. "It was just a matter of our hitting and our pitching."

The 1st MAW exited the fields with lifted heads after their performance against the 3rd MLG and the overall tournament.

"These two teams were tough," said Corey Carter, a Semper Fit Specialist. "When you put two teams like that together, you get a good championship game."

According to Michael Montoya, Marine Corps Base Camp Butler coach, all teams enjoyed the opportunity to play, win or lose.

"I think it's a very positive thing for Marines' morale because Marines like to compete," he said. "Many of us grew up playing and watching baseball."

Marine Corps Community Services sports are a major tool in the individual and unit morale and camaraderie, said Carter.

"This is a big morale booster," said Carter. "We play year round and players love it. Softball is big." The tournament was also an opportunity for Marines to be scouted and provided an opportunity to try-out for the All-Marine softball team.

"We want to send the best of the best to represent Okinawa and the Marines," said Carter.

For years, Marines on Okinawa will continue to be provided the opportunity to play softball and if good enough, try-out for the All-Marine softball team, said Carter.

"I think everyone that comes and plays hopes to be that next All-Marine player," said Oakley.

For more information about softball or other sports on Okinawa, contact MCCS Semper Fit at 645-3509. main.jpg

• Date Taken: 08.14.2010
• Date Posted: 08.26.2010 01:49
• Story ID: 55179
• Location: OKINAWA, JP