"From Worst to First"
Sunny Isles Police Win Softball League.
By Chief Maas

It was no secret when we first started the season last year that we had some concerns. We actually considered if we would even win a game or would be have that dubious distinction of an "undefeated less" season; which really means we failed to win a game. But then as the season progressed, so did the team and by seasons end we won our first game and began preparing for next season.

What a turn around! The new season brought a few new faces, some new confidence and a spirit that could not be broken. The competition was tough but so were we and we quickly reeled off 7 consecutive victories with only one loss. We finished the season with only that one loss and ended up 9-1 for the year. What a drastic change from winning only one to losing only one.

We were crowned League Champions on April 4th and received a huge plaque and individual championship game shirts for our award. But pride was the biggest gift we received and we gave it to ourselves. The camaraderie and spirit and togetherness really made Sunday mornings fun. Even for the poor guys who worked all night on the midnight shift and still showed up to play.

There were no individual stars, no heroes unless self-proclaimed, but rather a real team effort whereby every week someone else contributed to the success of our victory. I refuse to mention by name any one player that turned it around for us. I'd rather emphasize the idea of a group effort, a lot of desire, a pride that cops have from working together and seeing both the best and worst of people in society.

But on that field, during that game, all goes away for just awhile and you become a part of something bigger than yourself and your personal achievements. You become a part of a TEAM and a winning one at that. And that is the feeling of all when you reach the top! Congratulations to all:

Brian Schnell
Raul Diaz
Mike Grandinetti
Yojans Martinez
Tom Hopkins
Ed Santiago
Ray Atesiano
Orlando Sanchez
Javier Estevez
Mike Mulvey
Lee Athanasiou
Fred Maas
Joe Ernand

Coaches and Managers for the season were Yojans Martinez and Javier Estevez.

We would like to especially thank our loyal fans and supporters who showed up every week of both seasons; good and bad to cheer us on and provide mental therapy after losses.

Thanks to:
Laurie Winfield
Karen Grandinetti
Monique Martinez
Barry Noe
Rick Feisthammel

And our Super Score Keeper, statistician and line-up presentor: Carrie Brizuela

SEE YOU NEXT SEASON!!!!

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