The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
The Burkee's Bedlam slo-pitch team is eyeing a National title. Last year in Niagara Falls, Ontario they placed 15 out of 36 teams. If winning Nationals doesn't happen, they're looking for a top five finish. That may sound like a tall order, but player/coach Chad Trumbley insists there isn't any pressure on his team. "Our core is pretty much the same," Trumbley said. "We all want to win it very desperately. We don't expect to mow over everyone. It would be disappointing not to place in the top five." Trumbley said with the added depth, last year's experience should help this team succeed, as they were rookies before. For them, playing the game is about having fun, and competing in Nationals is about seeing how well they can do. "In the summer we all hang around and have fun," said Trumbley. Trumbley stated that achieving success at Nationals is important because the team is not made from the best of the best. "It's achieving something great with people you know," Trumbley explained. "Our team really wants to thrive at the next level and see what we can accomplish." As this team strives for greatness, they are proud to represent the area, especially when they have been laughed at by the opposition because they come from a small town. "Anytime you can go down and represent your town, it makes you pretty proud," Trumbley said. "You definitely feel proud of yourself." That team pride extends beyond the diamond though, the team also does lots of fundraising to pay their way. Going to Niagara Falls cost them roughly $14,000 in flights, hotel and transportation. They've been busy this past winter raising money and are participating in a boot sale at the Victoria Inn tomorrow. Fortunately for Burkee's Bedlam, they only need about $8,000 for their trip to Lethbridge Aug. 4-7, which they will drive to. When it comes to reaching their goal in the Nationals, Burkee's Bedlam, like the other teams, play three times a week while also practicing. One of the things the team wants to improve on is their offense. The focus, Trumbley said, is adding strong players in that area. Defensively there is no problem. During Nationals last year, they won a game 1-0. "One of the officials said that's unheard of," Trumbley added. As cliches in sports go, defense wins championships.9/6/06
