After another great season of College Baseball, the Crusaders fell just short of repeating as National Champions in 2011. Once the newness of yesterday's tough Championship Series loss wears off, this ball club will realize that they have much to be proud of this year. Though they didn't quite reach their ultimate goal of back-to-back NCCAA Titles, many things were accomplished this spring that can't help but continue moving the program forward. This much is sure, each one of them left us with life-long memories which can never be taken away.
Part of those memories include the way they fought valiantly through the World Series and battled to the very last pitch of the Championship Round. They would eventually lose the three-game Series 2 games to 1.
The Crusaders uncharacteristically made three errors in each of the Championship Series games (9 total for the 3 games-- this was against 4 errors made in the entire rest of the World Series). They were only able to overcome this to win Game 2.
Here's one final look back...
After dropping Game 1 by a score of 4-2, North Greenville bounced back to put on an offensive clinic in the late innings of Game 2 on Saturday morning. A key moment in this gem by Drew Provence showed his ability to pitch through adversity (much of it not of his own making). The bottom of the 5th inning was the evidence of this...with runners on second and third and only one out in a tie baseball game, Prov was able to retire the side with a pop up and a ground out to keep the score dead even. This also kept North Greenville from being behind very late in what- for them- was a potential season ending elimination game. This seemed to lift the Crusaders offensively as they came to life in the next half inning, putting up a 5-spot and securing Game 2 for themselves by a final of 11-4. This awakening of the bats forced the winner-take-all third game in the 2011 National Championship Series.
Game 3 saw NGU take an early 1-0 lead after Giles doubled to lead off the game and was brought home quickly on a single by Derek Fulmer. Oklahoma Wesleyan answered with a run of their own in the bottom half, and it became clear very quickly that we were going to be locked into a to-the-wire struggle decided by pitching and defense. The Eagles added one more in the bottom of the 2nd which resulted from of one of the three NGU mis-steps in the field. The next scoring came in the 5th, when Oklahoma Wesleyan pushed their final two runs across to secure a 4-1 Victory and the school's 1st ever NCCAA National Championship.
In the final game of the year the Crusaders were fittingly led by their seniors offensively. Giles doubled and scored the games only run for NGU; Callicutt was 2 for 3 on the afternoon. Adding to their contributions, Will Gladden had a key double and Fulmer pitched well enough to keep the Crusaders within striking distance after battling through some slight arm troubles throughout the post-season.
The moment of the game which will no doubt be indelibly placed into our memories as evidence of the heart with which Giles and the Seniors played throughout their careers at North Greenville came in the bottom of the 6th inning. With the bases loaded and no-one out, he induced a dribbler back to the mound. Bubba was able to get it quickly to Foulk, who made a perfect throw to first to complete the double play. They then worked together to strike out the next batter looking to end the inning with no damage done. This key moment kept the Crusaders in the baseball game, they just never could break through with the additional runs needed to win it.
The 2011 edition of Crusader Baseball left it all on the field, and that is all you can ask of your school's baseball club. They made sure they were able to play right down to the final out on the last possible day of the season, even forcing the last day to be extended to the final possible game.
This group has absolutely nothing to hang their heads about, especially the seniors, who will now graduate as the only players to ever take North Greenville to consecutive NCCAA World Series Title Games. They leave as the 2011 runner-up, but will forever be remembered as part of the 2010 NCCAA National Champions.
We will now be forced to wait for next Spring...when the game we love so much renews itself.
Looking ahead for the Crusaders...though hey most definitely loose some key contributors from this squad who will be sorely missed (Sr's: Brian Giles, Nate Richards, Tyler Callicutt and two of the Benjamin brothers); I can guarantee you this, when the cool winds roll through the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains again next February, there will still be plenty to be excited about.
See you this fall when Football rolls around...
Jason Patterson
5.21.2011
Crusaders Fall in Rubber Match...Oklahoma Wesleyan Takes National Title...
Derek Fulmer was excellent on the mound and the crusaders struck first in the Game, but the eventual result was not as the Crusaders hoped.
North Greenville falls 4-2 in Game 3 of the Championship Series.
3 Errors Doomed the Crusaders in the Rubber Match.
There is plenty to be proud of however, as the Crusaders had an amazing year...and came within just one game of completing their run toward a back-to-back repeat Championship.
I will close out the posting sometime tomorrow with more specific game details and a look back at the team's accomplishments in 2011.
Right now we are going to get on the road...long trip back to the upstate...
North Greenville falls 4-2 in Game 3 of the Championship Series.
3 Errors Doomed the Crusaders in the Rubber Match.
There is plenty to be proud of however, as the Crusaders had an amazing year...and came within just one game of completing their run toward a back-to-back repeat Championship.
I will close out the posting sometime tomorrow with more specific game details and a look back at the team's accomplishments in 2011.
Right now we are going to get on the road...long trip back to the upstate...
Crusaders Force Game 3
North Greenville wins Game 2 with a major breakthrough in the 6th inning and a masterful performance by Drew Provence...Will post details later...
Game 3 at 2PM...this will be a one game winner take all National Title Contest!!!
Game 3 at 2PM...this will be a one game winner take all National Title Contest!!!
Interesting Facts...
Before I hit the bed, I'll share with you a couple of Nuggets from my conversation with Coach Henson tonight. I plan on discussing these further in the broadcast tomorrow. Hopefully they will whet your appetite for the remainder of the National Championship Series...
--I mentioned in the blog earlier that NGU had swept double-headers several times already this year...to be exact, the number is 7. Seven times they have won 2 games versus the same team on the same day.
--On Championship Saturday last year the Crusaders won two games on their way to securing the National Title. Due to scheduling and weather, they were forced to defeat both Southeastern and Bluefield on Saturday afternoon to with the crown.
While Oklahoma Wesleyan is in an enviable position, up 1 Game to 0, North Greenville has already proven that what is required of them tomorrow is very much do-able.
See you in the morning...
--I mentioned in the blog earlier that NGU had swept double-headers several times already this year...to be exact, the number is 7. Seven times they have won 2 games versus the same team on the same day.
--On Championship Saturday last year the Crusaders won two games on their way to securing the National Title. Due to scheduling and weather, they were forced to defeat both Southeastern and Bluefield on Saturday afternoon to with the crown.
While Oklahoma Wesleyan is in an enviable position, up 1 Game to 0, North Greenville has already proven that what is required of them tomorrow is very much do-able.
See you in the morning...
5.20.2011
Crusaders lose Game 1 on Marathon day of Baseball
Sorry the posts have been limited today and short on information.
We had Lots of Baseball and Little Time on a key day which kept the Crusader season alive.
North Greenville dropped game 1 of the National Championship Series to Oklahoma Wesleyan 4-2. The Crusaders threatened often in the game, but could never breakthrough against talented right-hander Nick Randolph. NGU loaded the bases a couple times and hit the ball hard, but right at defenders. Three errors also doomed the Crusaders. They fought hard though, and saw Caleb Phillips eat up some key innings to keep many of the other arms fresh for tomorrow. His effort alongside Mark Benjamin's first start kept NGU in it, but the Crusaders couldn't quite get the elusive big hit to tie the game or forge ahead.
The Loss was North Greenville's first at the College World Series, both this year and in the program's history. The Eagles victory snapped a streak of 9 consecutive World Series wins at Legacy Field and Prasco Park. (The Crusaders were 5-0 en route to the title last year, and were 4-0 heading into tonight's match-up)
North Greenville's Baseball Club is still one step away from their dreams becoming reality in 2011. The remaining challenge is to win two games tomorrow to secure a repeat title.
As coach Henson pointed out, North Greenville has already won two games in one day at Prasco Park (site of the Championship Round), they did so just yesterday. Talking with several of the players after tonigh's loss, we recounted numerous times that the team was able to sweep double-headers this year. It will be this task that will stand between them and a Championship tomorrow.
The Crusaders feel good about the fact that they will have National Pitcher of the Year Drew Provence on the mound for Game 2 tomorrow morning. If they can find a way to grab the momentum and force a rubber match, it should make for one more interesting day of World Series Baseball.
After such a long journey, the 2011 Season ends tomorrow!
If things fall their way and they are able to take advantage of their opportunities...the Crusaders could close it out as Back to Back NCCAA National Champions...
See you tomorrow morning at 10:45 on a special National Championship Series edition of The Crusader Pre-Game Show...
We had Lots of Baseball and Little Time on a key day which kept the Crusader season alive.
North Greenville dropped game 1 of the National Championship Series to Oklahoma Wesleyan 4-2. The Crusaders threatened often in the game, but could never breakthrough against talented right-hander Nick Randolph. NGU loaded the bases a couple times and hit the ball hard, but right at defenders. Three errors also doomed the Crusaders. They fought hard though, and saw Caleb Phillips eat up some key innings to keep many of the other arms fresh for tomorrow. His effort alongside Mark Benjamin's first start kept NGU in it, but the Crusaders couldn't quite get the elusive big hit to tie the game or forge ahead.
The Loss was North Greenville's first at the College World Series, both this year and in the program's history. The Eagles victory snapped a streak of 9 consecutive World Series wins at Legacy Field and Prasco Park. (The Crusaders were 5-0 en route to the title last year, and were 4-0 heading into tonight's match-up)
North Greenville's Baseball Club is still one step away from their dreams becoming reality in 2011. The remaining challenge is to win two games tomorrow to secure a repeat title.
As coach Henson pointed out, North Greenville has already won two games in one day at Prasco Park (site of the Championship Round), they did so just yesterday. Talking with several of the players after tonigh's loss, we recounted numerous times that the team was able to sweep double-headers this year. It will be this task that will stand between them and a Championship tomorrow.
The Crusaders feel good about the fact that they will have National Pitcher of the Year Drew Provence on the mound for Game 2 tomorrow morning. If they can find a way to grab the momentum and force a rubber match, it should make for one more interesting day of World Series Baseball.
After such a long journey, the 2011 Season ends tomorrow!
If things fall their way and they are able to take advantage of their opportunities...the Crusaders could close it out as Back to Back NCCAA National Champions...
See you tomorrow morning at 10:45 on a special National Championship Series edition of The Crusader Pre-Game Show...
Cusaders defeat King, head to Championship Series...Will get opportuinity to defend National Title
North Greenville banged out 11 runs on 16 hits to defeat King College and secure their spot in the National Title Series. The heart of the order came to life, they were 9 for 13 with 5 RBI's and 7 runs scored. Adam Taylor had two doubles and never even made an out in the baseball game, while David Frazier had 2 RBI singles and leadoff triple. Fulmer and Lawrence also had RBI singles. Freshman third baseman Taylor Holifield followed up his big night last night with an RBI triple in the game today.
Couple this breakout offensive performance with solid outing from Sophomore right-hander Sean Willingham and lights-out relief from Nate Richards; you have the recipe for an 11-2 victory.
The Crusaders have a quick turnaround, the National Championship Series begins tonight at 7:30.
Running a little short on arms and dealing with a few injuries to pitchers, NGU has not yet decided who they are going to throw. We will keep you posted in the Crusader Pre-Game Show at 7:15 pm tonight.
North Greenville (4-0) will face Oklahoma Wesleyan (4-0) in a 3 game series for the Title.
Game 1 will be played Tonight at 7:30. Game 2 is slated for tomorrow at 11:00 AM and the rubber match would be 30 minutes following the last out of Game 2 (if necessary).
Couple this breakout offensive performance with solid outing from Sophomore right-hander Sean Willingham and lights-out relief from Nate Richards; you have the recipe for an 11-2 victory.
The Crusaders have a quick turnaround, the National Championship Series begins tonight at 7:30.
Running a little short on arms and dealing with a few injuries to pitchers, NGU has not yet decided who they are going to throw. We will keep you posted in the Crusader Pre-Game Show at 7:15 pm tonight.
North Greenville (4-0) will face Oklahoma Wesleyan (4-0) in a 3 game series for the Title.
Game 1 will be played Tonight at 7:30. Game 2 is slated for tomorrow at 11:00 AM and the rubber match would be 30 minutes following the last out of Game 2 (if necessary).
5.19.2011
Crusaders 3-0, Effectively in Semi-Finals
North Greenville sweeps their World Series games on Thursday.
The Crusaders have one more mountain to climb in order to reach the National Championship Series. They also know who they would be playing if they get there.
Oklahoma Wesleyan has already secured the berth from the other side of the bracket to play in the Series. The Eagles are 3-0 and already hold the tiebreaker against #1 seed Southeastern. There is no way at this point they can be prevented from advancing.
North Greenville, after beating The Masters College in a classic 3-2 contest at Prasco, will face King College tomorrow at 1 for a berth in the Series. This will be the 5th meeting this season between the two clubs, with all four games won by the Crusaders- though they were all very close contests.
King College is currently 2-0, and are playing a pool game against Mt Vernon tonight. Win or lose they they can make the Series with a win over NGU. Here's how it works: If King wins tonight, both teams are 3-0 and would fight for the final bid in the Championship Round. If King loses, though they are 2-1, a win over North Greenville would give them identical records. If this scenario played out, King would hold the tie breaker by virtue of their head to head victory.
All the Crusaders must do is win tomorrow to play for a second consecutive NCCAA National Championship on Friday night and Saturday.
How did North Greenville force their way into the pool deciding game?
They remained unbeaten in the late afternoon meeting with The Masters Mustangs behind an exceptional outing from Mike Benjamin. Benjamin worked in and out of jams throughout the game, and stepped up when it mattered most. In a microcosm of the entire game he battled The Masters best hitter Spencer Downs in a 3-2 count that in essence decided the contest. After fouling off pitch after pitch, Downs was caught looking to end the 6th inning, leaving the tying and go-ahead runs aboard. It was one of numerous times Benjamin left runners in scoring position--even leaving the bases loaded earlier in the game.
The key offensive contributers in the day's second game included Adam Taylor who doubled and Foulk who just prior to that drew a base on balls, setting the table for Derek Fulmer's two-run double which put NGU on the board first. Those two hits came in the 1st inning and gave North Greenville a 2-0 lead. North Greenville would only muster one more hit in the baseball game, but boy was it a big one. Taylor Holifield, after being involved in several key moments in NGU's post-season wins, finally broke through with his first hit of the World Series. It was a solo HR to left field, which would turn out to be the game winner.
Excellent pitching and timely hits have been the story for the Crusaders so far this post-season. In the latest game, NGU made the most of their opportunities with three runs off only three hits. North Greenville pitching held down a Masters offense that had scored 11 and 13 runs in their previous two contests.
Coach Henson is still meeting with his staff to determine the pitching plan for tomorrow's critical final pool game. I will pass that information along as soon as I receive it...
Hang with us...The Crusaders are very much alive, and as yet they are still unbeaten in two years (8 total games) at the World Series! I should have more posts tonight, and we will be back online at 12:45 PM tomorrow.
The Crusaders have one more mountain to climb in order to reach the National Championship Series. They also know who they would be playing if they get there.
Oklahoma Wesleyan has already secured the berth from the other side of the bracket to play in the Series. The Eagles are 3-0 and already hold the tiebreaker against #1 seed Southeastern. There is no way at this point they can be prevented from advancing.
North Greenville, after beating The Masters College in a classic 3-2 contest at Prasco, will face King College tomorrow at 1 for a berth in the Series. This will be the 5th meeting this season between the two clubs, with all four games won by the Crusaders- though they were all very close contests.
King College is currently 2-0, and are playing a pool game against Mt Vernon tonight. Win or lose they they can make the Series with a win over NGU. Here's how it works: If King wins tonight, both teams are 3-0 and would fight for the final bid in the Championship Round. If King loses, though they are 2-1, a win over North Greenville would give them identical records. If this scenario played out, King would hold the tie breaker by virtue of their head to head victory.
All the Crusaders must do is win tomorrow to play for a second consecutive NCCAA National Championship on Friday night and Saturday.
How did North Greenville force their way into the pool deciding game?
They remained unbeaten in the late afternoon meeting with The Masters Mustangs behind an exceptional outing from Mike Benjamin. Benjamin worked in and out of jams throughout the game, and stepped up when it mattered most. In a microcosm of the entire game he battled The Masters best hitter Spencer Downs in a 3-2 count that in essence decided the contest. After fouling off pitch after pitch, Downs was caught looking to end the 6th inning, leaving the tying and go-ahead runs aboard. It was one of numerous times Benjamin left runners in scoring position--even leaving the bases loaded earlier in the game.
The key offensive contributers in the day's second game included Adam Taylor who doubled and Foulk who just prior to that drew a base on balls, setting the table for Derek Fulmer's two-run double which put NGU on the board first. Those two hits came in the 1st inning and gave North Greenville a 2-0 lead. North Greenville would only muster one more hit in the baseball game, but boy was it a big one. Taylor Holifield, after being involved in several key moments in NGU's post-season wins, finally broke through with his first hit of the World Series. It was a solo HR to left field, which would turn out to be the game winner.
Excellent pitching and timely hits have been the story for the Crusaders so far this post-season. In the latest game, NGU made the most of their opportunities with three runs off only three hits. North Greenville pitching held down a Masters offense that had scored 11 and 13 runs in their previous two contests.
Coach Henson is still meeting with his staff to determine the pitching plan for tomorrow's critical final pool game. I will pass that information along as soon as I receive it...
Hang with us...The Crusaders are very much alive, and as yet they are still unbeaten in two years (8 total games) at the World Series! I should have more posts tonight, and we will be back online at 12:45 PM tomorrow.
Game vs Masters just became a little bit bigger...
The Masters College has defeated Mount Vernon 13-3 in 5 innings (mercy rule employed). The Crusaders are now clearly in a battle with the two final teams on their pool play schedule for a spot in this weekend's Championship Series.
The up-to-the-moment Standings are as follows...
North Greenville 2-0
King College 2-0
Masters College 2-1
Mount Vernon 0-2
Judson University 0-3
North Greenville's next game with the Heavy Hitters of The Masters College is still slated for a 4:30 first pitch. I call them the heavy hitters because they have put up 11 and 13 runs respectively in their two tournament victories.
Mike Benjamin will be on the mound for the Crusaders, he will have the task of keeping them in check. Benjamin will look to pick up where Provence and Woodring left off with masterful performances in Games 1 and 2.
North Greenville will agin be the home team in this afternoon's game. This one just got even better, and you don't want to miss it! We will go on air at 4:15 PM
The up-to-the-moment Standings are as follows...
North Greenville 2-0
King College 2-0
Masters College 2-1
Mount Vernon 0-2
Judson University 0-3
North Greenville's next game with the Heavy Hitters of The Masters College is still slated for a 4:30 first pitch. I call them the heavy hitters because they have put up 11 and 13 runs respectively in their two tournament victories.
Mike Benjamin will be on the mound for the Crusaders, he will have the task of keeping them in check. Benjamin will look to pick up where Provence and Woodring left off with masterful performances in Games 1 and 2.
North Greenville will agin be the home team in this afternoon's game. This one just got even better, and you don't want to miss it! We will go on air at 4:15 PM
North Greenville closely watching game 2..
From the press box at Prasco...
Game 2 on today's schedule in our pool is just underway.
The game pits #7 The Masters (1-1) vs #3 Mount Vernon (0-1)
Since NGU holds the tie breaker over Mt. Vernon by virtue of their head-to-head victory yesterday afternoon, the Crusaders would benefit most from a Mt. Vernon win.
Should the Cougars win, it would put North Greenville two games ahead of Masters in the loss column when the Mustangs play their final pool game against NGU later today. This- coupled with a King victory over Mt. Vernon tonight- would effectively make tomorrow's battle between King and NGU the Pool Championship Game with the winner advancing to the National Championship Series.
If Master's wins today and/or King loses tonight the scenarios get crazy and we begin to look at tie-breakers and such.
I will re-iterate though...if you keep taking care of your own business by winning baseball games (as the crusaders have so far), it doesn't matter what anyone else does.
Mike Benjamin is currently slated to start our 4:30 contest today, this could change of course, based on what happens in the game going on right now. Keep you posted...
Game 2 on today's schedule in our pool is just underway.
The game pits #7 The Masters (1-1) vs #3 Mount Vernon (0-1)
Since NGU holds the tie breaker over Mt. Vernon by virtue of their head-to-head victory yesterday afternoon, the Crusaders would benefit most from a Mt. Vernon win.
Should the Cougars win, it would put North Greenville two games ahead of Masters in the loss column when the Mustangs play their final pool game against NGU later today. This- coupled with a King victory over Mt. Vernon tonight- would effectively make tomorrow's battle between King and NGU the Pool Championship Game with the winner advancing to the National Championship Series.
If Master's wins today and/or King loses tonight the scenarios get crazy and we begin to look at tie-breakers and such.
I will re-iterate though...if you keep taking care of your own business by winning baseball games (as the crusaders have so far), it doesn't matter what anyone else does.
Mike Benjamin is currently slated to start our 4:30 contest today, this could change of course, based on what happens in the game going on right now. Keep you posted...
Crusaders stay unbeaten...2-0 in Bracket
Behind an excellent performance from Sophomore right-hander Ryan Woodring, North Greenville defeated the top seed on their side of the bracket by a final of 4-2.
After playing at Legacy field yesterday, this was the Crusaders first game back at Prasco Park since their extra inning victory in last year's National Championship Game.
In order to play for their second straight title, North Greenville will need to emerge from their side of the tournament bracket with the best overall record. They are tied for that honor right now with King College...both teams are 2-0.
North Greenville faces The Masters College today at 4:30. If NGU wins this game, which will be pitched by Mike Benjamin, they control their own destiny. If Masters hands the Crusaders their first loss, things will then get real interesting...
#6 North Greenville 2-0
#10 King College 2-0
#7 Masters College 1-1
# 3 Mount Vernon 0-2
#2 Judson University 0-3
Masters is set to play Mount Vernon at Prasco in mere moments.
The results of this game will further clarify exactly what NGU will need to do in order to make the Championship Series.
If the Crusaders can find a way to keep winning, what everyone else does will be a mute point...I know this is their plan, and though this is a highly competitive tournament, they are looking good so far. I will keep you posted throughout the day...
After playing at Legacy field yesterday, this was the Crusaders first game back at Prasco Park since their extra inning victory in last year's National Championship Game.
In order to play for their second straight title, North Greenville will need to emerge from their side of the tournament bracket with the best overall record. They are tied for that honor right now with King College...both teams are 2-0.
North Greenville faces The Masters College today at 4:30. If NGU wins this game, which will be pitched by Mike Benjamin, they control their own destiny. If Masters hands the Crusaders their first loss, things will then get real interesting...
#6 North Greenville 2-0
#10 King College 2-0
#7 Masters College 1-1
# 3 Mount Vernon 0-2
#2 Judson University 0-3
Masters is set to play Mount Vernon at Prasco in mere moments.
The results of this game will further clarify exactly what NGU will need to do in order to make the Championship Series.
If the Crusaders can find a way to keep winning, what everyone else does will be a mute point...I know this is their plan, and though this is a highly competitive tournament, they are looking good so far. I will keep you posted throughout the day...
5.18.2011
Crusaders 1-0 in World Series...Pool Surprises...
Whatever offensive struggles North Greenville has experienced recently, they seemingly left them behind (along with the warm temperatures and sunshine) in the state of Florida.
In weather that feels more like the early February games in Tigerville than Post-Season baseball in mid-May, the Crusaders wasted no time jumping ahead of a talented Mount Vernon Cougar Baseball team.
It began with 2 runs in a top of the 1st inning which saw needed contributions from the middle of the NGU batting order.
Though the crusaders added 5 more runs along the way, those two would have been enough for Drew Provence who went 6 full and allowed only one run--and it did not come until the 5th inning. Provence lived up to his billing the night before as the NCCAA Pitcher of the year.
Anthony Foulk and Adam Taylor came to life to help lead the way for the Crusaders, while Calicutt, Fulmer, Giles and Reinholz continued their red-hot hitting of late.
With the 7-1 victory, the Crusaders control their own destiny, and will be able to do so as long as they continue to win.
Remember what I wrote earlier today about everyone being good? Remember what I said about everyone being capable of winning at this point in the season? The first four games of the day saw the top four seeds open 0-1. The surprise of Day 1 had to be the play of Oklahoma Wesleyan and King College...The 9th and 10th seeds in the tournament came away from Wednesday's activities 2-0 and in control of their respective pools. Even more surprising is the fact that none of the top 5 seeds won a a baseball game today.
I have listed the pool records after Day 1 below...
#10 King College 2-0 #9 Oklahoma Wesleyan 2-0
#6 North Greenville 1-0 #8 Olivet Nazerene 1-1
#7 Masters College 1-1 #5 Malone College 0-0-1
#3 MT. Vernon 0-1 #1 Southeastern 0-1
#2 Judson University 0-2 #4 Cedarville University 0-1-1
*Cedarville and Malone were given a tie, due to the time limit.
The World Series is certainly not disappointing in terms of competitiveness and unique story lines. Let me use this opportunity to also say what a great job the NCCAA folks and the Prasco team are doing. This is truly an impressive environment and atmosphere for baseball. Everything is being carried out with excellence and enthusiasm. I look forward to the rest of the tournament.
Looking ahead...
North Greenville faces a pivotal day tomorrow. The Crusaders will play the equivalent of a double header: facing #2 seed Judson at 10AM and #7 Seed Masters College at 4PM. It would seem the Crusaders need at least a split to remain in the hunt, while a sweep of tomorrow's games would most assuredly set up a Friday showdown with King for the pool victory and a berth into the championship series.
The Crusaders will continue to take it one game at a time. Mike Benjamin will be on the mound in Game 1, with Ryan Woodring throwing in Game 2. We will do our best to keep you posted throughout the day.
North Greenville plays on the big field, Prasco Park, for both games tomorrow.
We will be on the air with the Crusader webcast video feed and pre-game show 15 minutes prior to each game. I'm pretty pumped...for the first time since the game at Drive stadium downtown on April 20th, we are going to be in an actual press box.
See you bright and early tomorrow morning...Grab some breakfast and join us at 9:45...
In weather that feels more like the early February games in Tigerville than Post-Season baseball in mid-May, the Crusaders wasted no time jumping ahead of a talented Mount Vernon Cougar Baseball team.
It began with 2 runs in a top of the 1st inning which saw needed contributions from the middle of the NGU batting order.
Though the crusaders added 5 more runs along the way, those two would have been enough for Drew Provence who went 6 full and allowed only one run--and it did not come until the 5th inning. Provence lived up to his billing the night before as the NCCAA Pitcher of the year.
Anthony Foulk and Adam Taylor came to life to help lead the way for the Crusaders, while Calicutt, Fulmer, Giles and Reinholz continued their red-hot hitting of late.
With the 7-1 victory, the Crusaders control their own destiny, and will be able to do so as long as they continue to win.
Remember what I wrote earlier today about everyone being good? Remember what I said about everyone being capable of winning at this point in the season? The first four games of the day saw the top four seeds open 0-1. The surprise of Day 1 had to be the play of Oklahoma Wesleyan and King College...The 9th and 10th seeds in the tournament came away from Wednesday's activities 2-0 and in control of their respective pools. Even more surprising is the fact that none of the top 5 seeds won a a baseball game today.
I have listed the pool records after Day 1 below...
#10 King College 2-0 #9 Oklahoma Wesleyan 2-0
#6 North Greenville 1-0 #8 Olivet Nazerene 1-1
#7 Masters College 1-1 #5 Malone College 0-0-1
#3 MT. Vernon 0-1 #1 Southeastern 0-1
#2 Judson University 0-2 #4 Cedarville University 0-1-1
*Cedarville and Malone were given a tie, due to the time limit.
The World Series is certainly not disappointing in terms of competitiveness and unique story lines. Let me use this opportunity to also say what a great job the NCCAA folks and the Prasco team are doing. This is truly an impressive environment and atmosphere for baseball. Everything is being carried out with excellence and enthusiasm. I look forward to the rest of the tournament.
Looking ahead...
North Greenville faces a pivotal day tomorrow. The Crusaders will play the equivalent of a double header: facing #2 seed Judson at 10AM and #7 Seed Masters College at 4PM. It would seem the Crusaders need at least a split to remain in the hunt, while a sweep of tomorrow's games would most assuredly set up a Friday showdown with King for the pool victory and a berth into the championship series.
The Crusaders will continue to take it one game at a time. Mike Benjamin will be on the mound in Game 1, with Ryan Woodring throwing in Game 2. We will do our best to keep you posted throughout the day.
North Greenville plays on the big field, Prasco Park, for both games tomorrow.
We will be on the air with the Crusader webcast video feed and pre-game show 15 minutes prior to each game. I'm pretty pumped...for the first time since the game at Drive stadium downtown on April 20th, we are going to be in an actual press box.
See you bright and early tomorrow morning...Grab some breakfast and join us at 9:45...
World Series Day 1 Preview
World Series Gameday has arrived.
The Crusaders completed their service project yesterday and enjoyed the World Series banquet last night, now it is time to get down to baseball. After bad weather all day yesterday, it looks to be clearing off. Forecast seems to indicate that we will be able to get the games in today.
A couple of things from the banquet last night: The BBQ was great and the speakers were even better. Former Giants draft pick and current ESPN analyst Chris Singleton challenged all participants to focus on excellence on the field and in their faith. His address was followed by the yearly awards and announcing of the 2011 NCCAA All-American first and second teams.
North Greenville was well represented in these areas. Adam Taylor was selected as a second team ALL-American outfielder, while Drew Provence and Derek Fulmer were First Team selections.
Provence highlighted the night for NGU, taking home 2011 National Pitcher of the Year honors.
Now to the games...
With all due respect to each team in our pool-coupled by the knowledge that once you make it this deep into the post-season all teams are good and any team can beat you- I am going to go ahead and throw it out there (for the sake of your gaining insight into the tournament's makeup), that conventional wisdom would suggest that today and tomorrow should determine NGU's standing in their pool.
The Crusaders are going to have what you would expect to be their toughest pool games right out of the gate. This afternoon they face the tournament's #3 overall seed in Mount Vernon, tomorrow morning its #2 overall seed in Chicago based Judson.
Today's matchup should be another excellent pitching duel (watch it be like 13-12 now that I said that), with both starters having been selected as 2011 First Team All-Americans.
Here are the numbers on our Ace...
Drew Provence 9 Regular Season Starts (7-1) 3.39 48K/13BB in 61 1/3 Innings
Post-Season: 1-0, 2 ER, 7K/2BB in 7 IP vs Palm Beach last week
He will go up against the Mount Vernon staff Ace...
Kyle Barr (7-2) 2.18 83K/28BB in 74 1/3 IP 5 CG and 1 Save in 12 Appearances
North Greenville will be the visiting team in game one.
Will try to post more, including scoring updates on the other two pool games being played prior to ours, when we arrive at the Ballpark around Noon.
The Crusaders completed their service project yesterday and enjoyed the World Series banquet last night, now it is time to get down to baseball. After bad weather all day yesterday, it looks to be clearing off. Forecast seems to indicate that we will be able to get the games in today.
A couple of things from the banquet last night: The BBQ was great and the speakers were even better. Former Giants draft pick and current ESPN analyst Chris Singleton challenged all participants to focus on excellence on the field and in their faith. His address was followed by the yearly awards and announcing of the 2011 NCCAA All-American first and second teams.
North Greenville was well represented in these areas. Adam Taylor was selected as a second team ALL-American outfielder, while Drew Provence and Derek Fulmer were First Team selections.
Provence highlighted the night for NGU, taking home 2011 National Pitcher of the Year honors.
Now to the games...
With all due respect to each team in our pool-coupled by the knowledge that once you make it this deep into the post-season all teams are good and any team can beat you- I am going to go ahead and throw it out there (for the sake of your gaining insight into the tournament's makeup), that conventional wisdom would suggest that today and tomorrow should determine NGU's standing in their pool.
The Crusaders are going to have what you would expect to be their toughest pool games right out of the gate. This afternoon they face the tournament's #3 overall seed in Mount Vernon, tomorrow morning its #2 overall seed in Chicago based Judson.
Today's matchup should be another excellent pitching duel (watch it be like 13-12 now that I said that), with both starters having been selected as 2011 First Team All-Americans.
Here are the numbers on our Ace...
Drew Provence 9 Regular Season Starts (7-1) 3.39 48K/13BB in 61 1/3 Innings
Post-Season: 1-0, 2 ER, 7K/2BB in 7 IP vs Palm Beach last week
He will go up against the Mount Vernon staff Ace...
Kyle Barr (7-2) 2.18 83K/28BB in 74 1/3 IP 5 CG and 1 Save in 12 Appearances
North Greenville will be the visiting team in game one.
First pitch for the Defending Champs is slated for 2:30 PM.
The Crusader pregame show will be on the air at 2:15.Will try to post more, including scoring updates on the other two pool games being played prior to ours, when we arrive at the Ballpark around Noon.
5.15.2011
World Series Schedule and Info
The 2011 NCCAA National Title Hunt will consist of 10 teams.
They will be divided into 2 pools, each consisting of 5 teams.
Every team will play each team in their pool once. After pool play is completed, the winner of each pool will advance to the championship round. The two teams which emerge from their respective divisions will play a 3 game Championship Series for the National Title. I have listed the two divisions below along with NGU's complete schedule. Each team's overall seeding in the World Series is in parenthesis just prior to their University's name.
Pool A Pool B
(#1) Southeastern University (#2) Judson College
(#4) Cedarville University (#3) Mount Vernon College
(#5) Malone College (#6) North Greenville
(#8) Olivet University (#7) The Master's College
(#9) Oklahoma Wesleyan (#10) King College
North Greenville's World Series Games are as follows...
The National Championship Series schedule...
I will update the blog with pitching rotations, lineups, and vital info on the opposing schools as we move closer toward the first pitch of the 2011 NCCAA Division I World Series
They will be divided into 2 pools, each consisting of 5 teams.
Every team will play each team in their pool once. After pool play is completed, the winner of each pool will advance to the championship round. The two teams which emerge from their respective divisions will play a 3 game Championship Series for the National Title. I have listed the two divisions below along with NGU's complete schedule. Each team's overall seeding in the World Series is in parenthesis just prior to their University's name.
Pool A Pool B
(#1) Southeastern University (#2) Judson College
(#4) Cedarville University (#3) Mount Vernon College
(#5) Malone College (#6) North Greenville
(#8) Olivet University (#7) The Master's College
(#9) Oklahoma Wesleyan (#10) King College
North Greenville's World Series Games are as follows...
Wednesday May 18 2:30 PM vs Mount Vernon
Thursday May 19th 10:00AM vs Judson
Thursday May 19th 4:30 PM vs Masters
Friday May 20th 1:00 PM vs KingThe National Championship Series schedule...
Game 1 Friday May 20 7:30 PM
Game 2 Saturday May 21st 11:00 AM
Game 3 Saturday - 30 minutes following (If Necessary)
We will have a full webcast of every game involving NGU
This will include pre & post-game interviews and analysis.
Our plan will be to go on air 15 minute prior to each contest.
I will update the blog with pitching rotations, lineups, and vital info on the opposing schools as we move closer toward the first pitch of the 2011 NCCAA Division I World Series
5.14.2011
Breaking News...Crusaders are in!!!
Word just in tonight that the defending Champs will get the opportunity to defend their Title.
I will be posting from Cincinnati on Tuesday and with all the necessary information between here and there.Check in from time to time as I will confirm the list of teams and schedule for the 2011 NCCAA College World Series.
The tournament is set up as Pool Play (Some of you may call this Round Robin), and will begin at 9AM on Wednesday, May 18th. Pool play runs from Wednesday Morning to Friday Afternoon.
For those interested...Word is Southeastern is in the other side of the Bracket....So a potential re-match with Southeastern would come if both teams win their pool and meet in the three game Championship Series which is scheduled for next Friday and Saturday.
Glad there is more baseball...I was hoping to see this talented ball club get one more opportunity to go out on their terms...Go Crusaders!
I will be posting from Cincinnati on Tuesday and with all the necessary information between here and there.Check in from time to time as I will confirm the list of teams and schedule for the 2011 NCCAA College World Series.
The tournament is set up as Pool Play (Some of you may call this Round Robin), and will begin at 9AM on Wednesday, May 18th. Pool play runs from Wednesday Morning to Friday Afternoon.
For those interested...Word is Southeastern is in the other side of the Bracket....So a potential re-match with Southeastern would come if both teams win their pool and meet in the three game Championship Series which is scheduled for next Friday and Saturday.
Glad there is more baseball...I was hoping to see this talented ball club get one more opportunity to go out on their terms...Go Crusaders!
5.13.2011
The Waiting Game
The members of North Greenville's Baseball team are making the trip back to the Upstate of South Carolina today with hopes that their season is not over. They still seek the chance to defend their Title as reigning NCCAA National Champions.
In terms of Baseball, the Crusaders--especially the teams key Senior leaders- now sit idle and await a phone call which would give them the opportunity to suit up and hit the diamond for one more round of college baseball competition in 2011.
The announcement concerning the potential at-large bid will come sometime tomorrow evening. We will most certainly let you know as soon as we have any information related to it. Sources both inside and outside the NGU camp confirm that North Greenville is in the final conversations for a bid and as defending champs stand a very good chance of receiving one.
If the call does come, the Crusaders will head out first thing Monday morning for Prasco Park in Cincinnati, Ohio en route to their second consecutive NCCAA College World Series. Tournament games will be played Wednesday through Saturday May 18-21st.
In terms of Baseball, the Crusaders--especially the teams key Senior leaders- now sit idle and await a phone call which would give them the opportunity to suit up and hit the diamond for one more round of college baseball competition in 2011.
The announcement concerning the potential at-large bid will come sometime tomorrow evening. We will most certainly let you know as soon as we have any information related to it. Sources both inside and outside the NGU camp confirm that North Greenville is in the final conversations for a bid and as defending champs stand a very good chance of receiving one.
If the call does come, the Crusaders will head out first thing Monday morning for Prasco Park in Cincinnati, Ohio en route to their second consecutive NCCAA College World Series. Tournament games will be played Wednesday through Saturday May 18-21st.
5.12.2011
Crusaders fall in Championship Round Game 1
The Southeastern Fire have returned the favor from last year's South Regional.
They beat the Crusaders 3-0 to take the Region Championship.
In doing so the Fire handed North Greenville's Baseball Club their only two losses of the Regional Tournament. In a mirror image of NGU's route to the title last season, they sent the Crusaders to the elimination bracket and beat them in the first game coming out of it. 6-3 Yesterday, 3-0 Today.
3 seemed to be an important number for NGU in the Regional, and fittingly so, as it is certainly one of the symmetry and rythym numbers of the game of baseball. (3 srtikes, 3 outs etc...) The Crusaders won their first Regional game 3-2 over Palm Beach Atlantic. They lost the next game to Southeastern by 3 runs, while scoring 3 runs themselves. They rallied from a 3-0 deficit in the Truett-McConnell game. Finally, they would up giving up the games only 3 runs in the title match to a team against whom their prior history had them at a record of 3 and (you guessed it) 3. Just an interesting tidbit on how baseball numbers sometimes fall.
As for today...
Southeastern pitched well throughout and were able to break through with the big inning in the 6th. North Greenville left the bases loaded in the bottom of the 6th with the go ahead run at the plate in the form of the tournament's hottest hitter SR 1B Tyler Callicutt. For a moment it looked as if NGU may break through, but the use of 3 different relievers shut down the Crusader rally and Phillip Kish slammed the door one final time in the 7th. The top of the sixth saw the only scoring of the game for either team as they matched each other with zeros all day long aside from that one half-inning. It would prove to be the difference in the game.
Callicutt, Reinholz and Frazier had amazing Regionals among others. NGU was led on the mound by memorable performances from Provence and Mike Benjamin. Ryan Woodring was good enough to win today as well, but the crusaders just couldn't seem to get that all important timely hit when they had runners on base. The relief work was good especially from Phillips and Giles yesterday. Much to build on moving forward for North Greenville
I am left with a real feeling that there is nothing for the Crusaders to hang their head about. They all battled hard and left it on the field. They are also still in the midst of a good run:
In the last two seasons they have been the Champion and Runner-Up of the South Regional....and who knows, if things fall right, they may get one last shot at playing tournament baseball in 2011...maybe even one last shot at Southeastern.
If you were with us on the webcast side, we apologize for the technical difficulties we experienced during today's game. The internet feed we were working with kept giving us problems. Should NGU make it to the World Series we will most likely be in an actual press box facility with high-speed internet. The nature of this should sure up both our feed and ability to stay online. Thanks for hanging with us throughout the regional, I really enjoyed bringing you the action.
I would also like to give a shout out to Palm Beach Atlantic's Athletic and Sports Information Departments. They did a great job hosting the regional and they gave us the best possible opportunity to do a good job for you with the resources that were available to us all.
Also want to thank those of you reading the blog! None of it would have been necessary without you the fans, parents, students, faculty and supporters. We kept hearing that there were many of you out there watching and listening...So thanks Cruasader Nation, it really is a pleasure bringing you the action.
Speaking of the World Series...Don't lose hope yet...
North Greenville is in the running for one of the two at-large bids for the NCCAA College World Series. The regional winners are of course automatic qualifiers, of the remaining teams 2 will be selected to complete the 10 team World Series Field. The committee will make the announcement regarding their selections on Saturday night, so hang with us for further info as the baseball season may not be over just yet.
Thanks again everyone...Hopefully I will have more to post on Saturday night and a few more games to call up north next week...
They beat the Crusaders 3-0 to take the Region Championship.
In doing so the Fire handed North Greenville's Baseball Club their only two losses of the Regional Tournament. In a mirror image of NGU's route to the title last season, they sent the Crusaders to the elimination bracket and beat them in the first game coming out of it. 6-3 Yesterday, 3-0 Today.
3 seemed to be an important number for NGU in the Regional, and fittingly so, as it is certainly one of the symmetry and rythym numbers of the game of baseball. (3 srtikes, 3 outs etc...) The Crusaders won their first Regional game 3-2 over Palm Beach Atlantic. They lost the next game to Southeastern by 3 runs, while scoring 3 runs themselves. They rallied from a 3-0 deficit in the Truett-McConnell game. Finally, they would up giving up the games only 3 runs in the title match to a team against whom their prior history had them at a record of 3 and (you guessed it) 3. Just an interesting tidbit on how baseball numbers sometimes fall.
As for today...
Southeastern pitched well throughout and were able to break through with the big inning in the 6th. North Greenville left the bases loaded in the bottom of the 6th with the go ahead run at the plate in the form of the tournament's hottest hitter SR 1B Tyler Callicutt. For a moment it looked as if NGU may break through, but the use of 3 different relievers shut down the Crusader rally and Phillip Kish slammed the door one final time in the 7th. The top of the sixth saw the only scoring of the game for either team as they matched each other with zeros all day long aside from that one half-inning. It would prove to be the difference in the game.
Callicutt, Reinholz and Frazier had amazing Regionals among others. NGU was led on the mound by memorable performances from Provence and Mike Benjamin. Ryan Woodring was good enough to win today as well, but the crusaders just couldn't seem to get that all important timely hit when they had runners on base. The relief work was good especially from Phillips and Giles yesterday. Much to build on moving forward for North Greenville
I am left with a real feeling that there is nothing for the Crusaders to hang their head about. They all battled hard and left it on the field. They are also still in the midst of a good run:
In the last two seasons they have been the Champion and Runner-Up of the South Regional....and who knows, if things fall right, they may get one last shot at playing tournament baseball in 2011...maybe even one last shot at Southeastern.
If you were with us on the webcast side, we apologize for the technical difficulties we experienced during today's game. The internet feed we were working with kept giving us problems. Should NGU make it to the World Series we will most likely be in an actual press box facility with high-speed internet. The nature of this should sure up both our feed and ability to stay online. Thanks for hanging with us throughout the regional, I really enjoyed bringing you the action.
I would also like to give a shout out to Palm Beach Atlantic's Athletic and Sports Information Departments. They did a great job hosting the regional and they gave us the best possible opportunity to do a good job for you with the resources that were available to us all.
Also want to thank those of you reading the blog! None of it would have been necessary without you the fans, parents, students, faculty and supporters. We kept hearing that there were many of you out there watching and listening...So thanks Cruasader Nation, it really is a pleasure bringing you the action.
Speaking of the World Series...Don't lose hope yet...
North Greenville is in the running for one of the two at-large bids for the NCCAA College World Series. The regional winners are of course automatic qualifiers, of the remaining teams 2 will be selected to complete the 10 team World Series Field. The committee will make the announcement regarding their selections on Saturday night, so hang with us for further info as the baseball season may not be over just yet.
Thanks again everyone...Hopefully I will have more to post on Saturday night and a few more games to call up north next week...
5.11.2011
Crusaders fall to Southeastern on Day Two
The crusaders just couldn't take advantage of multiple opportunities to score leaving nine runners on base against Right-hander Justin Mauldin. The true credit for the Fire's win goes to William Glessener however, Glessner was 2-4 with 2 RBI on the day. Glessner impressed even more with the glove than his bat, he initiated two bases loaded double plays--stepping on the bag at third and going across the diamond to first on both occaisions. The most memorable play of Game two will stand as his diving barehanded stab of an attempted sac bunt with runners on 1st and 2nd and no-one out in the 3rd inning.
Stars for the crusaders were Tyler Callicutt and John Reinholz. Rienholz had an RBI single and a diving play of his own in Centerfield. Tyler Callicutt has been the player of the tournament for North Greenville so far. He is 5 for 6 in the regional with 2 doubles, 2 RBI's and is responsible for two of NGU's runs scored in the tournament. Have a regional Calli!!! and stay hot!
Caleb Phillips led the crusaders from the mound. He retired 9 of the batters he faced across three innings of scoreless relief work.
North Greenville must now turn around and play Truett-McConnell in a 3PM elimination game. The winner will earn a spot in the championship round tomorrow and a rematch with Southeasten. The team winning this game would be forced to beat Southeastern twice tomorrow at Noon and 3 PM to win the Regional.
Mike Benjamin will be on the hill for the Crusaders.
I will update again after post-game wrap up...
Stars for the crusaders were Tyler Callicutt and John Reinholz. Rienholz had an RBI single and a diving play of his own in Centerfield. Tyler Callicutt has been the player of the tournament for North Greenville so far. He is 5 for 6 in the regional with 2 doubles, 2 RBI's and is responsible for two of NGU's runs scored in the tournament. Have a regional Calli!!! and stay hot!
Caleb Phillips led the crusaders from the mound. He retired 9 of the batters he faced across three innings of scoreless relief work.
North Greenville must now turn around and play Truett-McConnell in a 3PM elimination game. The winner will earn a spot in the championship round tomorrow and a rematch with Southeasten. The team winning this game would be forced to beat Southeastern twice tomorrow at Noon and 3 PM to win the Regional.
We are about to go back on the air for Day 2 Game 2...First pitch is set for 3:15
Mike Benjamin will be on the hill for the Crusaders.
I will update again after post-game wrap up...
5.10.2011
Day Two Regional Preview
Well, tomorrow we get the highly anticipated match-up we've all been looking forward to.
A Noon first pitch will begin the South Regional rematch between Southeastern & NGU.
After knocking off the #2 seed earlier today, the Crusaders are set to face the regional tournament's #1 ranked team. The Fire knocked off Truett-McConnell in commanding fashion 12-2 in 6 innings. That is correct, the mercy rule was put into effect in that one. Don't expect that to be the case tomorrow for either team, it should be the same type of nail-biter we had vs Palm Beach Atlantic, though it may posses a bit more intensity (See my earlier post about regional rivalries). Again, we will be on the air at 11:50 AM with first pitch at Noon.
Plan to tune in early and stay with us, this is certain to be one you don't want to miss!
Keeping you posted on the rest of the tournament...
Emanuel College is the first team to be sent home. They were eliminated after losing a lopsided contest to their conference rival Truett-McConnell early in the day, and later dropping a 4-3 decision to the Sailfish of Palm Beach Atlantic who bounced back nicely from their first round loss to North Greenville.
So we now have a four team regional. Here is tomorrow's slate of games which will determine the Championship participants for Noon (and possibly also 3PM if needed) on Thursday...
Left-hander, Derek Fulmer will be on the mound for the Crusaders.
Derek's regular season numbers: 3-1 / 2.93 ERA / 36K-28BB / 30 2/3 IP
The Junior out of Pelion, SC has two complete games on the year.
He will need to pick up where Prov left off today to keep NGU rolling.
Should be a fun day again tomorrow...
A Noon first pitch will begin the South Regional rematch between Southeastern & NGU.
After knocking off the #2 seed earlier today, the Crusaders are set to face the regional tournament's #1 ranked team. The Fire knocked off Truett-McConnell in commanding fashion 12-2 in 6 innings. That is correct, the mercy rule was put into effect in that one. Don't expect that to be the case tomorrow for either team, it should be the same type of nail-biter we had vs Palm Beach Atlantic, though it may posses a bit more intensity (See my earlier post about regional rivalries). Again, we will be on the air at 11:50 AM with first pitch at Noon.
Plan to tune in early and stay with us, this is certain to be one you don't want to miss!
Keeping you posted on the rest of the tournament...
Emanuel College is the first team to be sent home. They were eliminated after losing a lopsided contest to their conference rival Truett-McConnell early in the day, and later dropping a 4-3 decision to the Sailfish of Palm Beach Atlantic who bounced back nicely from their first round loss to North Greenville.
So we now have a four team regional. Here is tomorrow's slate of games which will determine the Championship participants for Noon (and possibly also 3PM if needed) on Thursday...
Noon- Winners Bracket Game: #3 NGU (1-0) vs #1 Southeastern (1-0)
Noon- Elimination Game: #2 Palm Beach (1-1) vs #4 Truett-McConnell (1-1)
3PM- Elimination Game: Loser of NGU/SE vs Winner of PBA/Tr-McCLeft-hander, Derek Fulmer will be on the mound for the Crusaders.
Derek's regular season numbers: 3-1 / 2.93 ERA / 36K-28BB / 30 2/3 IP
The Junior out of Pelion, SC has two complete games on the year.
He will need to pick up where Prov left off today to keep NGU rolling.
Should be a fun day again tomorrow...
Crusaders take Regional Game 1...
North Greenville comes away with a 3-2 victory in their first round match-up vs regional hosts and #2 seed Palm Beach Atlantic.
In a game that lived up to its billing, the Crusaders were locked in a true pitchers duel that was won by the staff ace Drew Provence. Provence was masterful, going the distance (complete game) and striking out seven, while scattering only four hits and allowing just two runs. Drew clearly elevates his game in clutch moments such as this, and while he was matched nearly pitch for pitch by the talented young right-hander Logan Thomas from PBA, he did enough in the critical moments to come out on top. The lasting image I will have of Provence day really sums up his outing: After the Sailfish loaded the bases with no-one out in the 2nd inning, Drew retired three of the next four batters on a strikeout, a pop-up, and a groundout...allowing only the one run to score.
Provence and the Crusaders benefited from key contributions by the team's senior leadership and freshman spark plugs. The game was won in the top of the 7th and final inning when Senior first baseman Tyler Callicutt's leadoff single translated into the game-winning run by virtue of a RBI Sacrifice Fly off the bat of Freshman third baseman Taylor Hollifield.
Coach Henson initially wanted Hollifield to lay down a safety squeeze bunt (the safety squeeze had already manufactured one run for NGU earlier in the game), but after two unsuccessful attempts he was forced to swing away. This ended up working to the Crusaders advantage after all, Hollifield lifted the next pitch deep enough into center field to score pinch runner Will Gladden with what turned out to be the winning run.
North Greenville trailed 1-0 early, then took a 2-1 lead with a pair of runs in the top of the 4th. Palm Beach answered with a run of their own in the bottom half of the 4th and the game remained tied 2-2 until the seventh. The one run in the seventh left the final line score as follows...
NGU 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 -- 3 7 0 WP- Provence
PBA 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 -- 2 4 2 LP- Thomas
I cannot stress how huge this victory was for the Crusaders attempt to repeat as South Regional Champs. Palm Beach Atlantic was forced to turn right around and play an elimination game vs Emmanuel College at 3PM. The Crusaders will have an opportunity to rest this evening and await the news of tomorrow opponent in another Noon ET start. That opponent will be the winner of the other 3PM game this afternoon between Truett-McConnell (who defeated Emmanuel handily) and the Regional's #1 Seed Southeastern Fire.
The Crusaders come out of today's first round game both unscathed and battle-tested. I would also note, as Adam Taylor pointed out in our post-game interview, it is a major advantage for our guys not to have to play an additional game in the trademark Florida sunshine this afternoon. Though it has been quite breezy, temperatures are currently in the high 80's and low 90's. It is a tiring heat and it is very good news that they can opt to relax and be fresh for tomorrows game.
We will be on live again tomorrow. Let us apologize for technical problems we experienced at the beginning of our broadcast. We hope we have those solved for the remainder of the regional tournament. I think we were up from the 4th inning on without issues, so we anticipate no problems tomorrow and should be on air as scheduled by 11:50 AM.
If you were with us for the broadcast today, give us a shout out view email and let us know you're out there. Also if you have any questions you would like answered about the games, the team, or the area --feel free to comment or drop me an email as well. You can email me right off this page on the bottom right hand corner...I will do my best to get to them throughout the week.
Great day for the Crusaders...and a big win over a very talented team. They are now in position that a win tomorrow afternoon at Noon will place them back in the Regional Championship Game on Thursday.
I will update with the crusaders opponent and pitching match-up for tomorrows game as that information becomes available...
In a game that lived up to its billing, the Crusaders were locked in a true pitchers duel that was won by the staff ace Drew Provence. Provence was masterful, going the distance (complete game) and striking out seven, while scattering only four hits and allowing just two runs. Drew clearly elevates his game in clutch moments such as this, and while he was matched nearly pitch for pitch by the talented young right-hander Logan Thomas from PBA, he did enough in the critical moments to come out on top. The lasting image I will have of Provence day really sums up his outing: After the Sailfish loaded the bases with no-one out in the 2nd inning, Drew retired three of the next four batters on a strikeout, a pop-up, and a groundout...allowing only the one run to score.
Provence and the Crusaders benefited from key contributions by the team's senior leadership and freshman spark plugs. The game was won in the top of the 7th and final inning when Senior first baseman Tyler Callicutt's leadoff single translated into the game-winning run by virtue of a RBI Sacrifice Fly off the bat of Freshman third baseman Taylor Hollifield.
Coach Henson initially wanted Hollifield to lay down a safety squeeze bunt (the safety squeeze had already manufactured one run for NGU earlier in the game), but after two unsuccessful attempts he was forced to swing away. This ended up working to the Crusaders advantage after all, Hollifield lifted the next pitch deep enough into center field to score pinch runner Will Gladden with what turned out to be the winning run.
North Greenville trailed 1-0 early, then took a 2-1 lead with a pair of runs in the top of the 4th. Palm Beach answered with a run of their own in the bottom half of the 4th and the game remained tied 2-2 until the seventh. The one run in the seventh left the final line score as follows...
NGU 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 -- 3 7 0 WP- Provence
PBA 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 -- 2 4 2 LP- Thomas
I cannot stress how huge this victory was for the Crusaders attempt to repeat as South Regional Champs. Palm Beach Atlantic was forced to turn right around and play an elimination game vs Emmanuel College at 3PM. The Crusaders will have an opportunity to rest this evening and await the news of tomorrow opponent in another Noon ET start. That opponent will be the winner of the other 3PM game this afternoon between Truett-McConnell (who defeated Emmanuel handily) and the Regional's #1 Seed Southeastern Fire.
The Crusaders come out of today's first round game both unscathed and battle-tested. I would also note, as Adam Taylor pointed out in our post-game interview, it is a major advantage for our guys not to have to play an additional game in the trademark Florida sunshine this afternoon. Though it has been quite breezy, temperatures are currently in the high 80's and low 90's. It is a tiring heat and it is very good news that they can opt to relax and be fresh for tomorrows game.
We will be on live again tomorrow. Let us apologize for technical problems we experienced at the beginning of our broadcast. We hope we have those solved for the remainder of the regional tournament. I think we were up from the 4th inning on without issues, so we anticipate no problems tomorrow and should be on air as scheduled by 11:50 AM.
If you were with us for the broadcast today, give us a shout out view email and let us know you're out there. Also if you have any questions you would like answered about the games, the team, or the area --feel free to comment or drop me an email as well. You can email me right off this page on the bottom right hand corner...I will do my best to get to them throughout the week.
Great day for the Crusaders...and a big win over a very talented team. They are now in position that a win tomorrow afternoon at Noon will place them back in the Regional Championship Game on Thursday.
I will update with the crusaders opponent and pitching match-up for tomorrows game as that information becomes available...
Notes from Coach Henson meeting...
Just finished meeting with Coach Henson...
-The Regular Season All-Region Team and Player/Pitcher of the year honors were selected at the coach's meeting. Team members will be released this weekend by the NCCAA. I can only tell you that you will want to keep an eye out for the final list, it will include some names you are familiar with.
-No changes in the Lineup this weekend...we will see the same starting 9 as usual.
-Provence,Fulmer, M. Benjamin, Woodring, Willingham make up the post-season rotation.
He indicated that this would be the rotation regardless of what happens.The only adjustment would be moving one of the backside guys up in relief if he was in a situation that required this or if he had an opportunity to close the regional out earlier by using one of them.
-We discussed Adam Taylor's injured calf...he is good to go.
The only other banged up player is Mark Benjamin who was unable to make the trip.
-We talked about the differences with the NAIA rules in effect
Noticable differences will relate to substitutions, pitching changes, and baserunning.
I will take some time during the broadcast tomorrow to deal with the specifics.
--NGU will play on Field #4 tomorrow on the Cardinals side of the Spring training facility.
They will take batting practice and infield on Field #2 beginning at 10:40.
--Pitching Matchup for Game 1:
NGU- Drew Provence (7-1 / 3.39/ 48K/13BB/ 1 CG/ 61 IP)
PBA- Logan Thomas (2-3/ 4.08/ 62K/20BB/ 1 CG/ 79.1 IP)
-Coach Henson and I took about 10 minutes to preview the regional field. I plan on having this audio for use during the broadcast tomorrow. The plan will be to play it on air at 11:40 AM just before we go on live at 11:50 for the Noon start. So the start time of Pregame tomorrow on the webcast will be 11:40 AM. The webcast can be found at www.ngcrusaders.com
I will also be updating via Twitter throughout the game.
-Had a chance to spend an hour or so hanging out with some of the guys at the team hotel. They seem excited yet focused. My impression was that they know exactly what is at stake, yet plan on having a great time and enjoying the moment this week. There are some impressive student-athletes on this team. All in all, I would say they are good to go, maybe even a little antsy to play, after all they have been in their longest layoff of the year.
Not much waiting remains...Baseball soon!
-The Regular Season All-Region Team and Player/Pitcher of the year honors were selected at the coach's meeting. Team members will be released this weekend by the NCCAA. I can only tell you that you will want to keep an eye out for the final list, it will include some names you are familiar with.
-No changes in the Lineup this weekend...we will see the same starting 9 as usual.
-Provence,Fulmer, M. Benjamin, Woodring, Willingham make up the post-season rotation.
He indicated that this would be the rotation regardless of what happens.The only adjustment would be moving one of the backside guys up in relief if he was in a situation that required this or if he had an opportunity to close the regional out earlier by using one of them.
-We discussed Adam Taylor's injured calf...he is good to go.
The only other banged up player is Mark Benjamin who was unable to make the trip.
-We talked about the differences with the NAIA rules in effect
Noticable differences will relate to substitutions, pitching changes, and baserunning.
I will take some time during the broadcast tomorrow to deal with the specifics.
--NGU will play on Field #4 tomorrow on the Cardinals side of the Spring training facility.
They will take batting practice and infield on Field #2 beginning at 10:40.
--Pitching Matchup for Game 1:
NGU- Drew Provence (7-1 / 3.39/ 48K/13BB/ 1 CG/ 61 IP)
PBA- Logan Thomas (2-3/ 4.08/ 62K/20BB/ 1 CG/ 79.1 IP)
-Coach Henson and I took about 10 minutes to preview the regional field. I plan on having this audio for use during the broadcast tomorrow. The plan will be to play it on air at 11:40 AM just before we go on live at 11:50 for the Noon start. So the start time of Pregame tomorrow on the webcast will be 11:40 AM. The webcast can be found at www.ngcrusaders.com
I will also be updating via Twitter throughout the game.
-Had a chance to spend an hour or so hanging out with some of the guys at the team hotel. They seem excited yet focused. My impression was that they know exactly what is at stake, yet plan on having a great time and enjoying the moment this week. There are some impressive student-athletes on this team. All in all, I would say they are good to go, maybe even a little antsy to play, after all they have been in their longest layoff of the year.
Not much waiting remains...Baseball soon!
5.09.2011
Crusaders completing final prep for Regional...
The team is holding a workout in Jupiter, FL as we speak. The workout, which should wrap up in the next hour or so, will conclude the final day of practice for the regional.
North Greenville will have one more round of batting practice tomorrow morning from 10:40-11:20 followed by a final opportunity to take infield at 11:30 as they prepare for their first round match-up.
I should have a little more info for you before tomorrow...
Coach Henson will be attending a coaches meeting at 9PM tonight at the team hotel after which we will be meeting to discuss the details of tomorrow events. I hope to have the information gathered from our conversation posted sometime around midnight tonight...
By the way...
Its in the high 80's here in South Florida, should be a perfect day for baseball tomorrow.
North Greenville will have one more round of batting practice tomorrow morning from 10:40-11:20 followed by a final opportunity to take infield at 11:30 as they prepare for their first round match-up.
The #3 seeded Crusaders are slated to play #2 seed Palm Beach Atlantic tomorrow at Noon
Our broadcast will begin at 11:50 AM with a special edition of "Inside the Clubhouse" which will include interviews with Coaches Henson and Carter.I should have a little more info for you before tomorrow...
Coach Henson will be attending a coaches meeting at 9PM tonight at the team hotel after which we will be meeting to discuss the details of tomorrow events. I hope to have the information gathered from our conversation posted sometime around midnight tonight...
By the way...
Its in the high 80's here in South Florida, should be a perfect day for baseball tomorrow.
Regional Rivalries...
Have arrived safely in South Florida...beautiful area and gorgeous day...if the rest of the week is like today we are in great shape for the tournament.
The team will be arriving around 3pm and will practice either at the Roger Dean Complex or at a High School field nearby later this afternoon. I am going to be getting with Coach Henson for an interview later today. After we meet up I'll update with the expected rotation and any other information he may provide.
---First is #1 seed Southeastern...
If you have kept an eye on North Greenville baseball at all over the last couple of seasons you have some awareness of how important this match-up has become. Southeastern has really become the Crusaders biggest rival. This may very well be the most intense rivalry in NCCAA baseball- it certainly is the biggest one in the south regional.
Keep in mind North Greenville defeated Southeastern three times during the 2010 National Title run. The Crusaders were victorious twice in the South Regional (including the regional championship) and once in the World Series.
Southeastern answered with a sweep of North Greenville in Tigerville back on March 21st. These were the only two games played between the teams this season. Both games were decided by one run.
One final note on NGU-Southeastern: 4 of the 5 games detailed here were run one affairs.
--- Next is first round opponent (and regional host) Palm Beach Atlantic...
Though their record doesn't really show it, this is an excellent baseball team. They are coached by Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter and have navigated a very difficult schedule.
The potential rivalry here is more between the athletic programs than the baseball team specifically. Congratulations to the 2011 Lady Crusaders who just upset the #1 seed in last weekend's regional in Tigerville to earn a spot in this year's Women's World Series.
Just who was the #1 seed they defeated to get there? Palm Beach Atlantic.
You might want to keep an eye on this rivarly baseball-wise also, the Sailfish are very well coached and we should be in for a great game tomorrow afternoon with the potential of a rematch somewhere later in the Regional.
So those are some story lines to watch...
The best news is we are now less than 24 hours away from the first pitch of the 2011 South Regional...more info as I receive it...
The team will be arriving around 3pm and will practice either at the Roger Dean Complex or at a High School field nearby later this afternoon. I am going to be getting with Coach Henson for an interview later today. After we meet up I'll update with the expected rotation and any other information he may provide.
In the meantime, there are a couple of story lines I wanted to go ahead and throw out there related to developing rivalries between NGU and the other teams here at the regional...
---First is #1 seed Southeastern...
If you have kept an eye on North Greenville baseball at all over the last couple of seasons you have some awareness of how important this match-up has become. Southeastern has really become the Crusaders biggest rival. This may very well be the most intense rivalry in NCCAA baseball- it certainly is the biggest one in the south regional.
Keep in mind North Greenville defeated Southeastern three times during the 2010 National Title run. The Crusaders were victorious twice in the South Regional (including the regional championship) and once in the World Series.
Southeastern answered with a sweep of North Greenville in Tigerville back on March 21st. These were the only two games played between the teams this season. Both games were decided by one run.
One final note on NGU-Southeastern: 4 of the 5 games detailed here were run one affairs.
--- Next is first round opponent (and regional host) Palm Beach Atlantic...
Though their record doesn't really show it, this is an excellent baseball team. They are coached by Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter and have navigated a very difficult schedule.
The potential rivalry here is more between the athletic programs than the baseball team specifically. Congratulations to the 2011 Lady Crusaders who just upset the #1 seed in last weekend's regional in Tigerville to earn a spot in this year's Women's World Series.
Just who was the #1 seed they defeated to get there? Palm Beach Atlantic.
You might want to keep an eye on this rivarly baseball-wise also, the Sailfish are very well coached and we should be in for a great game tomorrow afternoon with the potential of a rematch somewhere later in the Regional.
So those are some story lines to watch...
The best news is we are now less than 24 hours away from the first pitch of the 2011 South Regional...more info as I receive it...
5.05.2011
Pairings for South Regional Tournament Released
The defending champion North Greenville Crusaders will enter as the #3 seed and will play their first game as the visiting team against #2 seed Palm Beach Atlantic at Noon Tuesday.
Here is the full slate of games...
Tuesday May 10th
Game 1: #5 Truett McConnell vs #4 Emmanuel - Noon
Game 2: #3 North Greenville vs #2 Palm Beach Atlantic - Noon
Game 3: Winner game 1 vs #1 Southeastern- 3PM
Game 4: Loser Game 1 vs Loser Game 2 - 3 PM (Elimination Game)
Wednesday May 11th
Game 5: Winner Game 2 vs Winner Game 3 - Noon
Game 6: Winner Game 4 vs Loser Game 3 - Noon (Elimination Game)
Game 7: Winner Game 6 vs Loser Game 5 - 3PM (Elimination Game)
Thursday May 12th (Championship)
Championship Game #1: Winner Game 5 vs Winner Game 7 - Noon
Championship Game #2: 3PM (If Necessary)
Here is the information I have put together about the format from emails and conversations...
*All Games will be 7 Innings in length - (10 run mercy rule in effect after the 5 innings)
*NAIA Rules will be in effect for each game (This involves substitutions and re-entry)
*Home team will be the higher seed in 1st round and alternate throughout regional.
-Should both teams have been home in the previous match-up a coin flip decides
-The Team entering championship game without a loss will be home team in Game 1
-If a second game is needed the winner of championship game 1 would be home team
*A 2nd Championship Game is necessary only if the undefeated team is beaten in Game 1
So there's the bracket and the setup for the South Regional...let us know your thoughts...
Here is the full slate of games...
Tuesday May 10th
Game 1: #5 Truett McConnell vs #4 Emmanuel - Noon
Game 2: #3 North Greenville vs #2 Palm Beach Atlantic - Noon
Game 3: Winner game 1 vs #1 Southeastern- 3PM
Game 4: Loser Game 1 vs Loser Game 2 - 3 PM (Elimination Game)
Wednesday May 11th
Game 5: Winner Game 2 vs Winner Game 3 - Noon
Game 6: Winner Game 4 vs Loser Game 3 - Noon (Elimination Game)
Game 7: Winner Game 6 vs Loser Game 5 - 3PM (Elimination Game)
Thursday May 12th (Championship)
Championship Game #1: Winner Game 5 vs Winner Game 7 - Noon
Championship Game #2: 3PM (If Necessary)
Here is the information I have put together about the format from emails and conversations...
*All Games will be 7 Innings in length - (10 run mercy rule in effect after the 5 innings)
*NAIA Rules will be in effect for each game (This involves substitutions and re-entry)
*Home team will be the higher seed in 1st round and alternate throughout regional.
-Should both teams have been home in the previous match-up a coin flip decides
-The Team entering championship game without a loss will be home team in Game 1
-If a second game is needed the winner of championship game 1 would be home team
*A 2nd Championship Game is necessary only if the undefeated team is beaten in Game 1
So there's the bracket and the setup for the South Regional...let us know your thoughts...
Seeding and Match-ups to be released later today...
I was just in contact with the Palm Beach Atlantic Athletic Department.
They are currently finishing up the seeding and schedule for the regional.
The AD assured me that we should have this info sometime this afternoon.
Check back tonight for the official NCCAA South Regional seeds and pairings...
They are currently finishing up the seeding and schedule for the regional.
The AD assured me that we should have this info sometime this afternoon.
Check back tonight for the official NCCAA South Regional seeds and pairings...
5.04.2011
Regional Participants Set...
It has become official tonight that the South Regional Bracket will consist of 5 teams.
The participants are...
-North Greenville Crusaders (Tigerville, SC) (NCAA Division II Independent) 31-13
-Palm Beach Atlantic (Host) (West Palm Beach, FL) (NCAA Division II Independent) 26-24
-Southeastern Fire (Lakeland, FL) (NAIA-Sun Athletic Conference) 38-19
-Emmanuel Lions (Franklin Springs, GA) (NAIA-Southern States Athletic Conference) 25-28
-Truett-McConnell Bears (Cleveland, GA) (NAIA-Southern States Athletic Conference) 24-25
Seeding has not yet been released. We should have seeding, match-ups and game times this weekend.
It has been confirmed that the regional setup will be a straight forward 5 team double elimination with the #1 seed receiving a bye in the first round. All games will be played with morning and afternoon start times. The Regional will be held at the Roger Dean Complex in West Palm Beach beginning next Tuesday morning.
I'll pass more info along as it comes in...
The participants are...
-North Greenville Crusaders (Tigerville, SC) (NCAA Division II Independent) 31-13
-Palm Beach Atlantic (Host) (West Palm Beach, FL) (NCAA Division II Independent) 26-24
-Southeastern Fire (Lakeland, FL) (NAIA-Sun Athletic Conference) 38-19
-Emmanuel Lions (Franklin Springs, GA) (NAIA-Southern States Athletic Conference) 25-28
-Truett-McConnell Bears (Cleveland, GA) (NAIA-Southern States Athletic Conference) 24-25
Seeding has not yet been released. We should have seeding, match-ups and game times this weekend.
It has been confirmed that the regional setup will be a straight forward 5 team double elimination with the #1 seed receiving a bye in the first round. All games will be played with morning and afternoon start times. The Regional will be held at the Roger Dean Complex in West Palm Beach beginning next Tuesday morning.
I'll pass more info along as it comes in...
Welcome to the Scorecard...
I created the Crusader Scorecard as a way for those who can't make it to the South Regional to keep up with the latest news related to the North Greenville Baseball Club's quest for an NCCAA Championship repeat.
Here you will find daily lineups, tournament schedule, the latest notes, thoughts from Coach Henson and the Crusaders...all alongside candid conversation about each game of the regional tournament.
The first round of the 2011 post-season is the South Regional, which is set for May 10-12.
The Regional Champion will advance to the NCCAA World Series in Cincinatti, Ohio the following week.
The Crusaders will be traveling on Saturday May 7th. I will be arriving in Florida on Sunday May 8th.
Check back early and often to stay updated on NGU's 2011 Post-Season run...
Here you will find daily lineups, tournament schedule, the latest notes, thoughts from Coach Henson and the Crusaders...all alongside candid conversation about each game of the regional tournament.
The first round of the 2011 post-season is the South Regional, which is set for May 10-12.
The Regional Champion will advance to the NCCAA World Series in Cincinatti, Ohio the following week.
The Crusaders will be traveling on Saturday May 7th. I will be arriving in Florida on Sunday May 8th.
Check back early and often to stay updated on NGU's 2011 Post-Season run...
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