“What we did here was magical,” Captain Ron said to this reporter after the three day tournament when the much maligned Hawaiians – after blowing a 7 run lead in game one – fought their way to the Phoenix Cup. At times it seemed like this team was one destined for mediocrity, yet at times they really were the big red moonshine wagon, rolling through all opposition. It was a dichotomy that had these Hillbillies roar off to the best start in franchise history, only to screech to a halt after a mysterious team building exercise somewhere in the northern reaches of Ontario. But, like all championship teams – not that these Billies ended the day champions – the Hawaiian Hillbillies came through when it counted. And like all championship teams these Billies had some help along the way. Due to the no slide at home rule the Billies won a controversial match in the second extra frame before going on for a memorable match against the highly touted Chaps team. I can still see the look on the QB turned centre fielder’s face when the Ringer belted one of her trade mark blasts clear over her head. And a killer drive off Stinky’s bat that was deep enough that even The BIG Unit could score from first. It truly was a memorable tournament. Unfortunately on Sunday morning the Hillbillies could not pull through with one final upset and they fell to the Rock All Gannets in the Pheonix Cup Final. “Not to diminish what we did here this weekend,” assistant-captain Charlie Brown said after the magical tournament, “but all of us, what we’re looking for is a championship.” So too are the fans.
If the lead up to last season was difficult for the Hillbillies due to the ever-increasing throng which followed the team; usually referred to as the Hillbilly Nation; this year will be nearly impossible. The anticipation of the fans is palpable, and their desire for their team to win is incredible. If there is one hope it is that this is a more veteran squad, with one more year under their belts. The blend of veteran leadership and young talent cannot be underestimated as the Billies again get ready for the grind of the GSA Softball schedule.
“If I know one thing it’s this,” Triple T. Taylor said just before training camp, “this team is hungry. Last year we came so close, only to fall short of our ultimate goal,” I am still not sure that his pause is for internal reflection or dramatic effect. “This is the year. Everything is coming together, guys we thought we were going to loose last year are back for one more kick at the can, and the new talent the guys upstairs have here now are looking good. I’m not going to due anything super-cliché or anything – like guarantee a championship – but you get the feeling that there is something special going on here.” Then the Ringer pipes in from behind him “Beat the Gannets ---- GRRRRRR!”
Will this be the year that the Hillbillies take home the holy grail of GSA Softball? Only father time will tell, but for the moment he’s content to let us sit back and enjoy the game the way it was meant to be played.