South Congregational Church

Game #12

The season has ended.. and the playoffs are beginning! South Church lost its last game 20-18 to Ipswich/Essex, last year's champions in a game that went back and forth all night. The mosquitos had quite a field day, munching and feasting on players and fans alike. The RIPKEN was won by Derek Gomes, Ralph Sherrick and Richard Silva, who attended every regular season game. Special kudos to Mr. Silva (Scooter to his friends) who had no blood relatives (or significant others) playing on the field, but showed up to each game, complete with his atomic powered 'whoop-whoop' (ask someone who has been there) to cheer on the guys and gals.

Also in attendance at the game were the usual assortment of Grouts (Debbie (GO BRUCE!), Priscilla (GO JUSTIN!) and Joshua (am I old enough to play yet?)) as well as Jackie (GO CODY!) and Melissa (GO PATRICK!). Conspicuous by her absence was Lilly, who it was rumored could not stay up past her bedtime. Katie Carr and Ralph Sherrick did not play but were there. Ralph is on the DL with a torn tendon in his left leg and will miss the playoffs, but hopes to be back in time for spring training, assuming the nurse and training staff approve.

The playoffs begin on Monday night, August 3 at 8 p.m. at the very same Mattos Field. Winning teams Monday night advance to Round 2 on Saturday August 8 in Danvers. Directions, etc may be obtained by asking Bruce Grout in church, or emailing him at wwjdgrout@juno.com. Bruce will be coaching the team during the playoffs (GO BRUCE!!). Come out to cheer on the Crusaders. Plans are already underway for the 2nd annual end of season BBQ and Awards Ceremony to be held at the Sherrick Mansion in Salem. Thanks for a great year Crusaders and stay tuned to these pages for Playoff news and updates.