BASEBALL: A hit over the holiday

The Fourth of July weekend was, once again, full of activities in Coeur d'Alene. Were you aware that 43 baseball games were played in our city from July 1-4? The Coeur d'Alene American Legion Baseball Program partnered with the Spokane Legion Baseball Program to sponsor a Wood Bat Tournament played throughout the weekend that included 78 teams and almost 1,500 ballplayers in our two communities. Of course, that doesn't even include the families and friends of these young baseball players that stayed in our area hotels and ate and shopped at our area businesses.

In our city of Coeur d'Alene there were games at Lake City High School, Coeur d'Alene High School and McEuen Field. Between the wonderful facilities, the incredible weather and an amazing fleet of volunteers a wonderful four days of baseball was enjoyed by all! A special "thank you" is offered to Tony Siron and Jamie Duman who served as site directors with assistants Doug Collison and Melissa Priano. Volunteers Kim and Phil Robbins, Mike Curtis, Jim Benson, and many parent volunteers spent hours at the fields to assure a smooth and efficient tournament.

Our young Coeur d'Alene men played well under the direction of coaches Lloyd Duman, Corey Bridges and Travis Georgius for the Lumbermen. Loggers were led by Tom Barlow, Cody Spencer and Zach Clanton. Tucker Anderson and Dylan Collison coached the Lakers and Aaron Drake coached the Lumberjacks.

Teams and their families came to our area from California, Oregon, Washington, Montana and Canada. So many comments were heard about our lovely area, the terrific facilities, the festive parade and the warmth of the people whether merchants, volunteers or fellow baseball fans. Many of the travelers had heard of our fair city but never experienced it. They were very appreciative!

It was a wonderful weekend of baseball! Don't feel badly if you missed it! There are still many opportunities to get out and enjoy a great baseball game with the young men of our community. Check out our schedule online at cdalegionbaseball.com. It's a great way to enjoy summer in Coeur d'Alene!

RON KEEFER, Director

Coeur d'Alene Wood

Bat Tournament