In an amazing display of grit and determination, our boys, the Oshawa 13U A Legionaires, fought through bitter cold rain and wind to beat the odds as underdogs and stood tall on the podium as winners of the Gander Ross 13 U Tournament in Orillia from June 7 to 9.

Game 1

Tommy Howcroft led the charge on Friday against Guelph, the favoured team going into the weekend. Pitching deep into the game, Tommy kept us in contention. Unfortunately, our bats could not support him, so we dropped the first game 7-3. Our MVP for the game was Massimo Passarelli. 

Game 2

Alex Rosnak took the mound against the Muskoka Hornets. As the Hornets had already been held off the scoreboard twice, the pressure was on for a shutout to keep our run differential on pace with others in our pool. Alex, with his exceptional skills, did not disappoint as we blanked Muskoka 18-0 in 3 innings. Our MVP for the game was Roman Bianco, who contributed significantly to our victory.

Game 3

This game against the Markham Mariners was a must-win, and Massimo got the nod. Massi dominated with his nasty curve and led us to an 8-5 victory, sending us to Sunday. Massimo was our MVP for the game, his second of the weekend.

Game 4

Sunday morning semi-finals, and the rain came. Ryan Macina was once again tasked with hurling a wet ball. Despite the wind and rain, Ryan led us to an 11-5 victory against the Kitchener Panthers. Our MVP for the game was Austin Beebe. 

Game 5

After a rain delay, William Belliveau was sent to the bump in the tourney's final game. Willy pitched 7 complete innings, holding Guelph to a 1-1 score. Extra innings required us to go to the bullpen. Who doesn't love a Sunday morning Easter surprise? Jason Easter pitched 2 solid extra innings, giving us the time to pull ahead and be victorious over Guelph with a score of 5-2.

I can confidently say that we were not out-pitched, out-hustled, or played.

Our defence was outstanding, inspired by Massimo, Austin, and Tommy's acrobatic plays. Arron Daniels and Jayce Dalton set the bases ablaze.

We were supported by timely hitting by all, crucial pinch hitting under pressure by Daniel Chaudhary, support coming off the bench from Cam Thomas fresh off the D.L., and three strong games behind the plate by Tommy Howcroft.

We, the coaches, could not be prouder of these boys. And to our parents, you are the best support group out there. Orillia will no doubt be the first of many victories for this team.

Our championship MVP cannot be narrowed down to just one individual. All of our players, parents, and coaches were instrumental to our success this weekend. We celebrate everyone's efforts, commitment, and sportsmanship. Go, Legionaires!