WW III Providence vs South Meck

Here we go again...another big time showdown (smackdown) between two powerhouse teams. Although showcase/travel ball has reduced this once heated rivalry to a more civil one...it is still played with a lot of intensity and bragging rights.

This particular game has taken on a different flavor. It will be hosted by both the SM and Providence supporters to honor one of South Meck's greatest parent and biggest fan...Dan Foster. For those that do know Dan, he was a true southern gentleman. He was kind and helpful to those that knew him, but was kind and helpful to those he didn't. He never judged people by their material wealth or stature, but by their wealth of friendship. If he liked you, he wouldn't shake your hand...he would give you a hug. He was never impressed with one's self importance, but by people that would be caring and giving...just like him.

Dan has left us prematurely, but he will be at South Meck tomorrow as we will dedicate our ML scoreboard (donated by the Foster family) with a plaque honoring a great man.

For those that do attend tomorrow's game, when SM and Providence parents unite in the releasing of balloons...please look to the skies where the balloons will be floating...you will see Dan!

and he will be shaking his head wondering what the fuss is all about...but that's Dan




Yep, this will be a special game tomorrow; fought with intensity between players and coaches...just the way it should be

 

Oh...and did I mention that the Bagdome will be packed and the atmosphere will be electric. The best HS baseball environment you will find in Charlotte.

 

Bump...so it does not get lost in traffic

 

Just a couple of things that I noticed;

- I was a little disappointed in the beginning of the game at the lack of support by the fans of SM. I've been spoiled in years past at the electricity this game generates. But the first few innings it felt like a reunion hall where people were renewing old friendships and forgot that a game was being played. It was not until the 4th or 5th inning that a light came on and the fans remembered why they were there. The electricity came back on, the game was exciting...and it went into overtime

- I heard a great compliment by a SM parent about the Providence team (believe me, it is hard for me to repeat it, but it is well deserved) She said that she thought Providence looked like a college team. I thought (hmm..why would she say that). When asked, she said " When they struck out or were called out on a close play, they didn't argue..they didn't frown..they didn't dispute..they didn't get down on themselves. They acted like a good college teams act. They just went back to the dugout" I thought to myself again (very perceptive...must be why I married her). She was not implying anything about SM...just an observation about Providence.

- I was sad not to see the probable conference player of the year, David Mailman, being able to play. He is not only an impressive player, but he is also one of the nicest young men I have ever met...humble, respectful and extremely competitive. I would adopt this young man in a heartbeat and still let his dad take the exemption

- It was a great matchup with Ryan Morris vs Shane Small. Ryan was consistently in the 90's and Shane showed surprising speed with great location. My hats off to Ryan in the way he has handled all the pressure he has been under. It's not easy to keep one's focus and stay in control when you know that you have the top scouts for MLB checking your every move. Just my opinion...but Ryan will never see the campus of Clemson this year and his Dad can go back to cheering for the Gamecocks ...and I can't believe that Shane hasn't signed somewhere, yet. This kid is not only talented, but is a tough competitor.

- It amazes me the talent of the coaching staffs at both schools. Coach Hignight and Coach Bagwell are blessed. All of their coaches could/should be a HC somewhere. They are that talented!

- What a beautiful night for Dan Foster to grace us with his presence. It was a tremendous honor to be a part of his tribute. He was smiling looking at how well his children, Emily and Daniel, are doing. It was great to see them again. His wife, Lee, looked as beautiful as ever, but I was a little disappointed in that she didn't smuggle in her secret recipe

Dan bestowed us with a full moon and at that time, I knew the game was going to be won by SM...what I didn't know is that Dan also has friends at Providence, as well; And he decided not to choose sides. Oh well...I guess we'll have to wait until the playoffs...I need to talk to Dan about that:banginghe

- I would like to mention that Matt (Mad Dog) Layman was very impressive as well. He was throwing BB's...and mixing his pitches well. He did not deserve the loss.

- Eric Sommerville, who I have known since he was 8, also was very impressive. He came on in the 8th and shut the door of any hope the Sabres may have had. Great job E!!! But can you ask Art if you can start classes at Francis Marion early....like tomorrow?