Two games and two ambulances

Little League All-Stars are announced June 15 all around the world. The first game is circled on the calendar and then the practices begin. The SunCreek LL Majors All-Stars have been practicing for about a month in preparation for three games in the District 4 tournament and with luck AND skill, continuing on to Williamsport via Ashland, Oregon, and "San Berdoo."

But in an instance, the calendar and the competition are forgotten and suddenly we are sitting in the bleachers watching 11 and 12 year old boys and ambulances pull into Alpenrose, even right onto the Main Field diamond.

Last night, SCLL pitcher Nick collapsed on the mound in the 5th inning, grabbing the back of his neck and laying still while adults ran out with ice and blankets. The game was put on hold while the ambulance drove right onto the field and once again, the SCLL boys watched as a teammate was put on a stretcher and taken to a local hospital.

I am happy to tell you that Nick is doing fine after suffering from heat exhaustion -- he was treated and released last night. (a League update can be found here) He will be at the SCLL vs. Tigard LL game today at 12:30pm on Alpenrose main.

Teammate Nate watched the game last night from the dugout with his arm in sling. Also looking on last night was a good portion of SunCreek's District 4 Champion 9/10 All-Stars and their parents, as well as regular-season coaches, little brothers, grandparents and fans, all supporting the kids playing baseball and supporting each other.

Today, let's play ball and pray for a healthy, injury-free game for all the teams.