Fill out this form to email this article to a friend
Hernando eyes World Series championship
The Dixie Pre-Majors squad is seeking the first crown in program's third appearance at tourney.
By LARRY BUGG
Published July 29, 2005
The Hernando Dixie Pre-Majors team is looking to rack up some victories in Cajun country.
The 15-16-year-old players will open the World Series by playing Virginia at 5 p.m. on Saturday in Ponchatoula, La. If Hernando comes out on top, it meets the Texas-Tennessee winner Sunday in a 5 p.m. game. The local squad was to leave Brooksville on Thursday night for the double-elimination tournament comprised of 12 teams. This is Hernando's third trip to the Series, and the program is looking for its first title.
"It is basically a group of unknown commodities," coach Donnie Whitehead said of the Hernando members, many of whom have played high school junior varsity ball.
"It's a combination of fine athletes and guys who are willing to do the job," he said. "They perform the role to the best of their abilities." Hernando went 4-1 in last week's state tourney to capture the championship. It defeated Marion County 8-2 in the final in Chipley.
"It was a group that we weren't sure how they were going to come together, but you can't find that out until they go play in tournaments," Whitehead said.
"They jelled into a group beyond our expectations. They are great kids. They never get down." The well-balanced club is led by its pitching and defense.
The players are Joel Beiswenger, outfielder and pitcher; Alex Beiswenger, outfielder; Ryan Holman, pitcher; Thomas Dwyer, outfielder; Brandon DeRespiris, infielder-pitcher; Kenny Treverton, infielder; Brian Daniels, infielder-pitcher; Mike Dudek, infielder; Kai Huff, infielder-pitcher; Kyle Neal, pitcher-infielder; Blake Hunter, utility; James Everson, catcher; Andrew McNeal, catcher-pitcher; and Ford Manual, catcher.
"I have absolutely no problem taking this group and lining them up against anyone of the same age," Whitehead said.
The other coaches are Tim Sims, Jeff Laing and Jim DiSciascio. The team is trying to raise money for its trip. Donations can be delivered to WWJB radio or the Red Mule Pub, or reported to Whitehead, (352) 279-4361.
[Last modified July 29, 2005, 00:51:17]
Share your thoughts on this story
[an error occurred while processing this directive]
|
News
Fifty years ago, they were screwed-up kids sent to the Florida School for Boys to be straightened out. But now they are screwed-up men, scarred by the whippings they endured. Read the story and see a video and portrait gallery.
Print
Email story
Comment
Email editor