Got Fun?..Season ends on a downer...

Well those crafty Elkhorns ran into a sitcheeayshun on Sunday. 1-800 ASK-HUGH was ringing off the hook with the # 1 caller being none other than Casual himself!

"I felt the pressure of being the first GM in Elkhorn history to not win a damn thing" griped Casual. "The fun thing was just a release... who the f'ak has fun when they lose? I mean really??....."

"I studied hard in Summer School....I really did....and of course I tried to put my own spin on things....I remember Summer saying it was important to make it your own team....I tried that..." said a somber Casual Observer. "I'll be reviewing things with Summer in the off season...I am just glad he let me sow my manager oats this year....I'll do better next season"

The Elkhorn GM may not give Casual that shot. "I always said, it is about RESULTS, NOT EXCUSES!" barked the Elkhorn GM. "Ronzo is on notice!"

Casual led the team to a modest 11-10 regular season record and the squad almost squeaked out a win in the Semi Finals on Sunday night. "Not good enuff for this organization" seethed the Elkhorn GM as he was seen pacing back and forth at the beer garden afterward.

Meanwhile the Summer GM was no where to be seen...."I headed out with the family to the Goldeyes Game....they had me throwing the openning pitch....I had to be there" indicated Summer. "Hey, we can't change what has happenned...but we can change the future...Casual and I will have a few discussions...."

Notable comments from the weekend:

After the loss Casual said to the team "is this fun?" showing his disappointment with the end result of the Semi final loss.

"Fuck this!" said by the Elkhorn GM

"I can't believe I homered in a key game" said Tiny for the 5th time that weekend...

"I am heading to Ed's to watch the Bomber game" said The Elkhorn GM

"I can't believe I am Hugh" said Hugh Glove

" We had fun" said everyone who was brown nosing Casual.....

Next year the herd will be improved. Casual has changes in mind, and will move forward to put out the best team possible....and have fun of course!

Good Job Ron....and of course, good Job Herd! Enjoy the off season!

The Dog Days of Summer........

It was bound to happen. Summer showed he is human. Actually worse than human, he was a dog! Over shot a pop fly into left field, then a deep hit to left flew over his head which ended the game.

"Hey, what can I say after that? I told Gobbler something didn't feel right during warm ups...maybe it was the quart of chocolate milk I had just before the game" said a humble Summer.

Summer's biorhythm clearly shows he was fighting against the forces that evening.

"I thought the ladies on the team actually kept us in the game" noted Summer. "Turning double plays, batting well, and there were a few cookers at second that they handled like pros".

In the end, All Balls, No Strikes bested the Herd 8-7.

Discussions at Boston Pizza after the game showed there was also something else a brew with Summer. "I noticed he went straight to the men's room" noted Gobbler. "He told me he needed a bowl movement before the game, the guy sure plays with pain doesn't he?"

After some food and drinks, just when Summer normally starts to kick it up a notch, a surprised Elkhorn GM said "What??!!" when summer announced he was tired and needed to head home. "I was exhausted" laughed Summer.

Other notable event ala Keystone Cops were the "Pop Fly over under non catch" by Casual and the "let it go,,, leave it" call by The GM to Gobbler....While the GM and Gobbler stood there in centre field, the base runner quietly rounded the bases for an easy homer. "I don't get it, there are metal poles in that sand area" griped Gobbler.

I am not sure the Elkhorn GM or Gobbler actually heard the rules when Casual actually had the Umpire come over and explain them to the group. "They gotta put their ears on barked Casual Observer "The Ump made it quite clear that area was in play!

The Herd laces 'em up Next weekend for the playoffs. The team has never been shut out of the hardware in its existence so look for some excitement as they hit the diamond!

This

Blood is thicker than water; Summer fallow ends

Well, let's just say the Herd is struggling a wee bit this year. Many softball pundits are leering towards Casual Observer with pointed fingers and how he has virtually destroyed the team "Summer Built". "Hey we are above .500, that's not bad" remarked Casual.

Casual's casual style is not only reflecting a casual winning percentage, it is also starting to see players question some of the moves. "He put Murray (Casual Observer's brother) on third when clearly the better choice was Summer" mentioned a disappointed Sharon. Murray let a hard hit ball go by him as he "casually" announced "I couldn't see it!"...to which summer noted that he saw it enough to move out of the way. Certainly not the golden glove performance ala His Hughness. Pictured are the hats worn by both Casual and Murray.

Summer filled in adequately at 3rd last game he played (see previous article). Anyway, the Herd put together a much needed victory off of Summers bat as he went 5 for 5 with 7 ribees in a 20-13 victory. "I saw the stats and the Horns were sitting at .500, we have never been that low at this point in a season...I told Casual I would come out and help the squad". And help he did! Summer also took on a big hit towards him and snagged it (much like the one that Murray deeked) . "He was their big bat, shut him down and the game is ours" indicated Summer.

Other notables for their play today were Sharon with a solid game on the mound, Mike may have found himself a spot as a paying player next year, and Preston....umm...no...Preston needed some help today with 2 or three dropped balls and only making it to first base once in the evening. Certainly not Presto the Magnificent as he has been coined.

"We expect more out of Preston" noted Casual. "Today I think his biorhythm was off."

The team was Built to Win, and the losing slide had to be stopped. It came to a screeching halt on Wednesday night. Great job Herd. The Herd is looking forward to seeing Tannis get back into game shape (really bad leg) and Hugh and Tiny returning from their vacation. It would be nice to see Gobbler back in form at the bat as well. The Elkhorn GM was missed by his lack of leadership in the bar apres the game.

It took less than half a game.....

..............for Le Grande Gobbler to pull it out....

Down by 9 runs after 4 innings of play, Casual looked at Summer and said "Get yer cleats on, we're in trouble". Summer hesitated for a bit, but when he saw how serious Casual was, he knew there was a job to be done. Les was down for the count with a back injury from playing with his hose to long. Summer, (pictured left) was clearly not in his usual game shape but always willing to help out a team in need.

"Play where ever you need to" barked Casual. Summer replied, " Put me where you need me most". To third base Summer went and the rest is history.

Without a warm up pitch Summer proceeded to light the ball right into Tiny's glove for an out. " A little higher or lower?" Summer asked. "Nope, just right" cooed Tiny. "I can throw it harder if you like" yelled Summer. Tiny just said "Our normal 3rd baseman throws it my way hard so I am used to it!" ................'nuff said.

Then, a line drive that Summer handed so Casually it made Casual "Elkhorn Green" with envy.

A fielders choice off Summers bat and a few Ribees and the Herd was off and running.

In the end, the Herd came back from a 9 run deficit to squeak out a much needed victory.

"I really wanted to just sit back and enjoy the ball game, but Casual was really insistent..in the end he made the right move." noted Summer in a post game interview.

"Sports just comes easy for that guy" noted Gobbler"..."he does this stuff all the time."

Le Grande Gobbler at 3rd certainly took it all in stride...."I just love to hang with the in crowd...." noted Summer

Thank goodness Casual made the right move this time around...not like the manager in the Cartoon!

Penthouse to Shit House

That's Gobbler for ya. Just as the Herd was poising up for a victory, Gobbler creates an error to set up the comeback for the opposition.

"Hey, it was not that bad of a throw....it could have been caught....I ain't taking all the heat for the loss!" barked a disappointed Gobbler.

Rumours around the Horn are that the lack of play as of late left the entire team knocking rust off the gloves and bats...

"I am disappointed in myself as well" noted Casual. "We've never been knocked out this early in any tournament. I will sit down with Summer and review the past weekend and see if this ship can be righted".

Summer was spotted watching the game from the Bunker atop the Buhler concession and did not utter a word after the loss....he just shook his head.

One thing the Herd does well is not dwell on the past, so off to another week of incredible ball by the hottest team in the 'Peg (and they can play too!)

We'll keep this blog short.....

(PS..we still love you Gobbler...honest we really do!)

Le Premiere Etoile! Ball Gobbler!

The Horns started this years' leage tournament with a 12-6 victory over the French Ticklers at Buhler Park on Saturday. At time of writing, the results from game 2 have not been submited.

Game 1 showed a few things that won't be seen again any time soon.

Ball Gobbler (pictured) was chosen as star of the game. "I knew I had to step my performance up a notch" noted a modest Ball Gobbler, "Casual has been busting my ass to start contributing, and I think I did that today". Gobbler was 3 for 3 at bat and showed some pretty good fielding skills by gobbling up everything that came near him.

Speaking of modesty, Hugh certainly did not like being shown up by Gobbler. So mad in fact that he actually tore the cover off of the old Grey Dot! Ball remnants shown at right. "He still was no where near me in performance" mentionned Gobbler.

The Horns seem to be gelling quite nicely under the new management style "a la Casual". "I still consult with Summer for clearance on all the moves I make, I know I'm still learning and I don't want to make mistakes" mentionned Casual, "hey, the guy has a proven track record with building winning teams, I am just lucky to have him as my mentor."

Look forward to seeing the Herd give it all up on Sunday as they strive for more hardware. "We pretty much have won something every year, lets keep the press on" yelled The Elkhorn GM!

Seems Tiny was caught pressing on something as well.....*wink*,,,,or was she just looking for Hugh's wallet to go buy a beer?

Evaluation day!

New Management brings new things. This year the Elkhorns held their first spring evaluation camp on Saturday April 24th at the Gateway Community Club.

Casual Observer was not observing casually on this day, rather he was watching quite closely the talent presented to him. "overall it was a nice look-see I would say" enamored Casual. " I saw some good things out there, and of course some things that need a little work."

Notably the Elkhorn GM was not present as it was rumored he was spotted face down at the German Club during evaluations. "We've discussed his attendance at these events and I think we have met on common ground" indicated Casual.

As with all great clubs, there are always holdouts. Les was spotted driving by the facility around 5 pm and noted "I just wanted to see if the guys were out there..I can't play during negotiations though". Apparently Les is asking for 1/2 bag of Spitz for every game and Casual is holding firm with the teams budget.

Casual had a clip board and here are the notes:

Hugh....big glove, bad vision, big bat...needs work on throw to first to not hit base runner.

Tiny.....good glove, good vision, great potatoes....keep on team (as long as home cooked meals continue)

Rode....this guy will bring in the fans...he's big and strong...needs work on his drinking though

Ollie.....good speed,,,manages his drink well while catching...try to acquire if possible

Lauren...very unassuming in all her play,,rarely make mistakes,,

Kelly....surprisingly rusty at bat...the rest was vintage Kelly,,,,needs to work on limiting her tardiness.

Summer...clearly a gap to fill....and a very very big gap...(we'll leave it at that)

Stef...quick and full of energy....will attempt to recruit in off season

"I still have some recruiting to do...and have a few additional folks in the works...I can't discuss it right now until the deal is done." murmured Casual.

Pictured is who is rumored to being "wooed" by Casual...none other than Elanor "bunt" McKenzie!

Casual is also looking at every aspect of the game and has come up with a great idea to get an edge on the other teams. See cartoon below.

Season starts this Monday! Here are the first games info!

Monday May 3 at 7:40

Elkhorns (Home) vs Transcona Fighting Snappers

Keenleyside park

Wednesday May 5 at 6:20

Ump Yours (Home) vs Elkhorns

McLeans Reservoir (across from Maple Leaf)

Changes

It appears that a few last minute "changes" (click on the video on the right for a great blog tune) have occurred and as a result the 2010 roster is still not finalized. Casual is pictured after being premature and saying "honest, this has never happened to me before". Rhode and Melissa unfortunately are unable to commit. Rhode is in training whilst the herd feeds on Mondays and Melissa has other things to tend to. Too bad, they woulda been great and Casual has placed them on the spare list so there is a good chance we will see them in action sometime this season. Also, Oliver and Lauren are struggling to find the time. It seems that only Deon Sanders is able to play both Football and Baseball in a single year. Lauren has brought some sanity to the newly married couple's lifes with some solid direction on what it means when you commit to the Herd....you just don't miss games, and to miss even one is grounds for dismissal...oh wait..Summer is not running the squad...no...it is a little more "casual" this year...so all is good..(teehee). She clearly has watched her dad and his commitment to the Horns.

The good news is that Causal has sought after the services of a highly touted player from the Quinfigglin Softball League just outside of Meleb Manitoba. An announcement will be forthcoming over the next few days regarding this new and exciting acquisition (that is of course if Casual can close out the contact)

Concerning to the Summer GM is the fact that Casual appears to have completely missed Module 17: "Finalizing your Roster". Summer was so concerned that he went through video footage from last years Summer School only to find evidence that Casual might have not studied as hard as he let on. See Casual writing his final exam.

Either way, Casual is doing a yeoman's job out there and should be recognized for his efforts. Thanks Casual, you know we are just teasin'...and we only tease the ones we love!

Good Luck Herd,,,"Changes" are still happening!

Hello...Goodbye

2010 brings the winds of change. The man known to many as "Summer" is taking a Management Sabbatical. He is not saying "goodbye" for long, just for a little while. And goodbye only means from the field and Elkhorn front office. Family commitments are taking priority as there is a younger "summer" making waves is Manitoba Fast Pitch. "Hey, she is from my loin...what did you expect?" boasted the Summer GM!

"Summer" knew this was eminent last year and immediately enrolled Casual into "Summer School"! "He did great! He might not have performed as good after hours as Denise DaFleur ( see post May 22, 2009) but in class he definitely was the best I have seen!" indicated Summer.

The Elkhorn GM reminisced about "Summer" at Boston Pizza with Hugh...."To think I drafted that guy in 1985! And to see what he did for the overall organization....it is remarkable!"

Rumors are that there will be an Elmwood Elkhorn Hall of Fame celebration this year (25th yr Anniversary of the club) and "Summer" is alleged to be the first inductee! Who better?...c'mon now! Details to follow.

Summer led the team to multiple tournament victories and both A- Side and B-Side league championships. "When you're Built to Win", what do you expect?" indicated Summer...."I only chose the ripest fruit for this team, and the foundation is solid...very solid!"

"Hopefully this is just Summer Fallow" said a teary eyed Tiny Glove. His Hughness comforted Tiny by saying "Can you ever remember a year without "Summer"? I know it is tough to even imagine a year without "Summer" but "Summer" returns every year my dear."

Good Luck Summer and Good Luck Herd!

The Herd will be kicking off a new season with new management! New management brings new philosophies and new players. Casual has kept the foundations of the team but it is the new acquisitions that have him smiling!

"I am expecting Rhode to pave a highway to hell for other teams" commented Casual. And if Oliver lives up to potential, I think we have a replacement for Presto. "Presto the Magnificent", the outstanding left fielder for the past 3 seasons was upset that Summer would not be here saying "Man,, what's up with dat guy?,, I'll play Men's League this year and wait for him to come back" said a dejected Preston.

Melissa and Lauren should add some much needed youth to an aging franchise. "They compliment our overall level of play and certainly compliment this great looking squad quite nicely" indicated Casual.

The Gobblers are back, Tiny, Hugh, The Elkhorn GM, Les, Rob (ala Mr Mom), Tannis (Gypsy), Kelly, Sharon, Peggy and Casual are all returning.

Pictured above...is that Summer leaving or Casual coming? By the way, if anyone needs to see additional pics of Casual "coming" just comment to this blog.

Good Luck Horns in 2010! It's gonna be a great year for ball!!!

Hello Casual....Goodbye Summer.,,,,,,,

Another season in the books.......

The Elkhorns 3rd season ended in moderate disappointment as they were "dominated" by the Dominoes Dominators in the A side final. "I think we just ran outta gas " said a dejected Summer. "Our bats went totally cold!".

Absent on Sunday was Hugh Glove. Elkhorn players were asking "Mark, where's Hugh?". If one looks closely in the picture above, we may just find him! Seems he was in a different spot and not the ball diamond...too bad, the Herd could have used him in the final.

It can't go unmentioned the great effort the team put forth in the playoffs. Mercied a few teams and came from behind a few times. "There's no quit in those guys" murmured Casual Observer.

These playoffs saw a number of injuries for the team stars.

1. Casual Back strain (injured on a great play though)
2. Sharon Calf (took a heater there)
3. Tiny Calf (Hit with her own bat? WTF?)
4. Les Knee (he just shifted it back in place )
5. Rob Knee (Happens all the time, the guy is a mess)
6. Hugh Hangover (Just can't play with Summer like he used to!)
7. Preston Confidence (It happens when you get nailed that many times on the bases)

As is customary here are the year end awards for 2009

• Best injured 1st base player Maura (she takes 'em for the team EVERY year)
• Most improved Nadine (great playoffs!)
• Biggest Glove Hugh (of course)
• Most absent player Summer
• Best Senior player Les
• Best Pitcher Sharon
• Best drinker hands down Elkhorn GM (6:00 am emails prove it!)
• Most hard catches made look easy Preston
• Most consistent batter Rob
• Fielding consistency award Dave
• Most Casual Ron (how can it be anyone else?)
• Most weekend games missed Gypsy (But during the week she was a rock)
• Most games missed female Nicola (I hope this is not a sign of anything!)
• Team Commitment award Peggy
• Most likely to make out with a Mexican Kelly

It has been speculated that the Summer GM would retire from Management after this season. All Summer would say was "I'll see how it goes in the off season. I am working on a new book called Let the Players Play. That is going to take up much of my time. Casual is ready, this team has been Built to Win and things are set for a number of years now."

"That's a lot of pressure to put on a guy" remarked the Elkhorn GM. "The Summer Ass needs to fill some big shoes. Summer is the winningest GM in Elkhorn History!"

** At time of writing, the Elkhorn GM was said to be still at an undisclosed address in Transcona and looking to head out from Jeff's to Jeffereys! **

Great Season Herd! Great Season!

Keystone Cops get shocking victory

It wasn't pretty, no, it was damn ugly, but the Elmwood Elkhorns squeeked out an unexpected victory Thursday night.

After failing a number of times to close out their opponents, the "Keystone Cops" got an early Christmas gift.

With 2 outs, 2 on base and the winning run at the plate, a simple ground ball was hit to the Elkhorn Pitcher (who shall remain nameless, but lets just say it was his first game with the Herd's summer squad). Nate (oops I let the cat out of the bag) attempted an easy throw to first only to miss the attempted target by 5-8 feet. The runners rounded the bases. After the second runner came across the plate with the winning run in hot pursuit, the beautiful voice from the umpire was heard..."OUT!...thats game!" The Herd players looked around wondering WTF? It appears the second run stepped on home plate. Victory Horns!

Leading up to that point was reallly hard for the "fan" to watch. Summer was brutal on 3rd and made an unprecedented double move by placing Ball Gobbler on 3rd after missing an easy outfield catch and putting himself in centre field while moving Kelly to Left Field. "It is what winning GM's do! Plain and Simple " remarked Summer.

Stefanie stepped out to play for her first visit and hit a stand up double, a beautiful bunt ala Kelly, and made two great catches in the field after waiving off the Elkhorn GM. "He was just getting in my way!" noted Stef.

Presto played superb on short stop... Nicola solid at Catcher,, Elkhorn GM did well at Rover...Stef and Kelly were solid in field,,,the rest of the team were somewhat out of place this night!

Thanks Nate and Stef for helping out! You both did well,,(even though we "blogged" you Nate!)

The team needs to step it up going forward with the playoffs 6 weeks away!

Go Herd!

Big Game fall on Weekend

First it was the Manitoba Moose on Friday night. Now, the Elmwood Elkhorns sufferred their first tournament defeat since 2007!!

The loss left the Horns looking around wondering WTF?

In addition to the WTF about the games, WTF (Where The Fuck) was The Elkhorn GM? And Casual Observer?

"We could have used those guys out there today" stewed Rob. "Not for their skills, but to give the stars a break from the heat! Where were those clowns?"

Summer could only Shrug his shoulders and thank those that made the journey to Buhler. "We had a rough weekend, it started out good, then today, our bats just fizzled!" said Summer.

"We counted the hits in that last game, there were only 7 hits and most of them were singles!!" said Sharon in disbelief.

When Presto and Slugger strike out you know someting is wrong in batsville! "And I struck out swinging at it!" said a very somber Rob.

Not to worry though, the entire Herd was seen later in the shade having a nice cool drink(s) and forgetting about the unfortunate event. The team is not so sure they can forget not being able to take a break this weekend.

Next game is Tuesday night...Ball Gobbler will lead off again...he showed why he is worth the cash! Remember though, everyone is just a swing or two away from moving up or down in the line up!!

"Hugh"man Error

The Elkhorns trounced their opponents Friday night with a 21-5 "Shellaking" in front of 2 fans at Buhler Park.

"It was a good start to a great weekend" hiccuped Summer. "We have been here before, we know what it takes".

The man commonly known as "Hugh" was off his normal game with 3 unforced errors. "I can't focus properly, she is just too damn hot on first!...That is why I was overthrowing her!" yipped Hugh. "I asked Summer to put Les there so I would not have that problem"!

There is not a chance that Les will see first base anytime soon. "He's a golden glover with big range,,he is teaching the kids some tricks out there" noted Rob. "Besides, we have a couple of first base gals that are doin' a great job!"

Overall, it was probably one of the most solid performances this squad has seen in recent years regardless of the "Nyuk Nyuk" stuff from 3rd to first. "I'll bet he didn't miss a thing later that night with Tiny" joked Presto!

Special thanks to Mr & Mrs Ball Gobbler for hosting the apres win celebration.

The Herd migrates back to Buhler for game 2 of the weekend at 10 am with a second game at 2 pm.

Seats are still available. $2 at the door!

Herd Seeks Threepeat!!

The Elmwood Elkhorns are gearing up for another tournament weekend this week in anticipation of a solid performance at Buhler Park. "We haven't played for a bit, most teams that would hurt, but the rest has done us good. We are all old and needed the rest to get healthy" indicated Ball Gobbler.

"We will be without Gypsy this weekend" mentioned The Summer GM.."I am sure she is travelling somewhere....she'll be missed".

The Horns will have pretty much a full slate to defend their title as they move up the ranks in 4th division.

The time off seemed to work out well for a few members of the squad.
"It has been a busy week promoting Summers new book" said Casual..."it's sanctioned..the whole bit!"

Over 50,000 copies have been sold since the promotional tour began.

"I am not a religious man, but this Bible is something I intend to keep in my drawer" noted Pete. "Mine is signed and everything!"

Game time Friday is 7:20 PM. Rush seats only!

See you there!

Hugh's presence felt! and missed....

Hugh Glove not only has a huge one....but people step aside and watch as he readies himself. Much like at Buhler on Thursday night. He rolled in, looked things over...saw that it was "almost" under control....mentionned a small "twinge" in his tummy from escargot and wine....and remarked...."things seem under control...I will just sit back and infuence those that pass by my Hughness!"

And influence he did!

The pic shows "His Hugness's" team getting his equipment ready for play. No easy task but they all want to be just like Hugh. Who doesn't?

Hey...what do they say about a man with a Huge Glove? He has a Huge bag!!

While unfortunate that Hugh and his lovely parter Tiny cannot make it this weekend....the Herd will still strive for victory with very capable players and management.

• No Summer..
  
• No Elkhorn GM (WTF...a birthday party? AGAIN!!!) We are trying for Friday night man!
  
• No Hugh
  
• No Tiny
  
• No Tannis
  
• A little bit of Ball Gobbler
  
• Alot of Casual
  
• Alot of Peggy...she is good to go..yippie!
  
• Presto showing his magic
  
• Kelly...she does it all
  
• Nadine...solid play all around
  
• Nicola...we need you!
  
• Sharon....she wil be there....always is.
  
• Les....can play (but not on Saturday)
  
• Rob...Hello,,where are you? How was cooking class? We are counting on you this weekend.
  
• Rich..get yer buns out....we need you this weekend!
  

From what we can tell...depending on schedule....The Herd could be close to having enuff players...and make no mistake...the players they will have will be players.....

Look for victories 4 and 5 this weekend.....there just might be a Stampede with the Herd running over the competition!

Go Horns!

Finally Summer has arrived!

It was not without a lot of hard work, sleepless nights, and a little bit of luck, Summer turned up on Thursday night. "I needed to get away and prepare for the season" piped Summer. Rumour has it, the leader of the ball squad was working on the 2009 Elkhorns success strategy while spending a few weeks in disguise in Tahiti. "I thought for sure no one would find me there...boy was I wrong.
Pictured are the Summer GM in disguise on a Tahitian beach just outside his bungalow. Also pictured is the Polynesian lovely that found him! Tiari (above right) was quoted as saying "Once Spring hits, I immediately start thinking of Summer. Summer seems to come later and later every year, but this year, I could not wait.

With Summer back , there was definitely a different swagger on Thursday night. With the team down 3 runs early, all eyes were on the Summer GM to make something happen. " I realized that Ball Gobbler (Dave) missed spring training and 3rd base is a little tough for a sophmore under pressure. I moved Casual (Ron) in and things settled down nicely". Not only did things settle down, they erupted with Ball Gobbler gobbling his way to a golden glove performance in centre field!

"Most guys would have pulled a struggling player, but not Summer, he has a knack of getting the best out of his players, that is why I respect him so much!" boasted Hugh (Mark).

The potential TSN turning point was when Les attempted to go for home on an over throw. " I looked right at Casual, he just shrugged his shoulders casually, so I ran for it." Les noted his disbelief at what transspired. " I have played ball for alot of years, never have I seen such "casualness". I guess the laid back approach is causing some "casualties".

Summer and Casual spent some quality time in the bar afterwards. "Every time I sit down with that man, he sheds so much light on things" indicated Casual. "I am lucky to be in this situation with him, not many get this type of opportunity.

Casuals' opportunities will not end with mere bar banter. He has been enrolled in "Summer" School. The curriculum is based on "Built to Win". Pictured is last years graduate Denise DaFleur who is now the General Manager for the Brainard Pussy Cats. " At first I was having trouble, then Summer suggested we need to go with all nighters to speed up the process! I am no longer satisfied with just getting to 3rd base! Thank you Summer for everything!"

"Once he is done Summer School, that guy is gonna be big, real big!" (Summer was talking about Casual, the Associate Summer GM, AKA Summer ASS)

Let's all wish Casual similar experiences that Denise has enjoyed!

The Players of the Game as indicated by "The Commish" were Sharon for pitching prowess and Summer for ripping one so loud in the on deck circle that the back catcher actually heard it! "Hey, I had chili for lunch, give me a break!" protested Summer.

The Herd's next game is Thursday night at Buhler when they take on Double Ryes and RBI's at 6:20 pm.

Rush seating available at the gate only!! No pre-purchase for this event!

Where's Summer?

And he was not talking about the yearly event that starts every June 21st!  Hugh was asking about the whereabouts of the Summer GM.

"We need him back, today was very different.  Not that Ron did a bad job, not at all, it was just different!" remarked Hugh.  "I actually went over to the side, smacked myself in the face a few times, yelled at myself, and that got me going!".  "It was just too casual out there.  Clearly he never read Built to Win authored by Summer."

"Look at me, I have aged because of this, tattoo sagged, the whole bit!" screamed a disgusted Hugh.

It also appeard that Casual lost his starting pitching job to Sharon.  "I think The Summer GM did this year like he has in the past years, he just keeps finding raw talent to fill gaps" said Casual.  This year I am moving off the mound more than in the past" murmured Casual.  "Not sure why, I have a Unique style that did well in the past!"

"He did a great job with Tannis and Les as well; I don't know where the hell he finds them, but it is beautiful" envied the Elkhorn GM.  "He is big on Nadine as well, so we should be good to go!". 

The Herd started out the 2009 season with 2 victories at Buhler Park.  The Herd managed the victories without Summer (Big Bambino), Dave (Ball Gobbler), Nicole and Nadine.  Players of the game were Maura and Casual.  Guess it was slim pickens.......

Stay tuned for more game information as the schedule gets established.

Summer GM, where are you" cried Tiny Glove...."I guess I will just settle in and read a best seller Built to Win".  "I miss you"

2009...and itchin'

The 2009 edition of the Elmwood Elkhorns is showing a lot of promise early.  The Summer GM (who never sleeps, especially if there is still some left in the 40 ouncer) has been busy assessing new talent, trading players, and managing Hugh's ego.

"All is set and pretty much ready to go" indicated Summer.  "We may move up to 4th division, as a matter of fact I counted on it and moved players accordingly."

In two seasons "The Herd" has finished as "B side" Champs and in 2008 lost the gremlins that foiled them and cruised to victory as "A side" champs.

"It's about winning, having fun, and good times with friends, in THAT order" noted the Elkhorn GM.

This years edition welcomes a few new players:

Les , a player of many talents, noted for quickness on the bags and a bat that impressed Presto last year.  "I saw the Elkhorns in the playoffs and was impressed with the talent and thought it might be a good fit to showcase my abilities" boasted Les.

Nadine, a spin off out of Soulmans Misfits was on the unrestricted free agent market.  "I snapped her up real quick, scouting reports were solid with this one" boasted Summer.

Sharon just may be the diamond in the rough..."we lost a pitcher, I hear she has a pretty good knuckler, that pretty much iced" said Summer.

Negotiations are still going on for one more undicslosed female player... all that can be said right now is that she is hard core Elmwood!

We are glad to have the rest of the team back. 

Hugh Glove, who was looking for a trade after being benched for killing the Texas Mickey with out the GM's has been in spring training and is ready to go after an off season injury.

Elkhorn Archives:

Here is a picture of a young Hugh before puberty.  Lets just say after puberty he was not so shy!  ========================>

And here is Baby Huey, do you see the resemblance?

Time for a great season...go Herd, lets have fun!

How Sweep it is!

The Elkhorns battled adversity (again) as they won “everything they could” sweeping up in their 2^nd season. “Bring on Kaboom “shouted Presto speaking of the Elite division winners.

The Horns cruised through the round robin and things looked rosy, until the call came on Sunday morning. “The Commish called in the morning with a last minute change in game time and location” said Summer. “Luckily, we were able to get in touch with everyone and sneaked out the first win on Sunday against the Concrete Crushers.” They then took the diamond against the Dirt Bags. It was a bit closer, but again, when you’re a team on a mission, it is tough to stop the big Elkhorn train.

The fact that a quarter of the team went to the Tom Petty concert the night before and were noticeably “off” when they hit the diamond was of no concern for Summer. “This team is about depth, and good drafts have allowed this organization to have a solid succession plan where anyone can play at any time” boasted Summer.

The final game was a “beaut”. The Herd was actually down 2 runs against Batts of Fury, then Maura mentioned that she would buy a beer for every player that passed over home plate. Well, that would be the death of the opponents as the Horns cost Maura a shopping bag full of “brewskies” en route to the victory.

Here is a description of the final out in the Championship game. Rick pitched his trademark “knuckle slider”. She swung, missed, and the Herd won. Rick turned around and chuckled, “that was anti-climatic”; no truer statement was uttered all year. But when beer was on the line, the other team knew they were done.

Time for a commercial break.

Cowboy hat $20

Warm up beers $10

New Bat $175

Hugh striking out in the Championships – PRICELESS!

Back to our regular programming.

Injuries were a concern for the Summer GM as he chose to rest players during the round robin. “I sat down in a closed meeting with the Elkhorn GM and really it was a no brainer; we knew this team had depth, and would hold their own. But, there was no way anyone was going to sit much on Sunday, everyone was going to play”.

Playoff homer club included Hugh, Rob, Casual, Presto and Maura.

Year end awards:

• Best comeback player (Casual),,,he batted stellar in the last few weeks! Finally.


• Best fielder female (Kelly), also would have best bunter award, but only one is given out per player!


• Best wounded player (Presto). Hope surgery went OK.


• Best player with internal organs falling out (Hugh).


• Best Closer (Pete), always there in the big games.


• Best starting pitcher (Rick), and closed out the championship season for the Herd.


• Best 2B (Vanessa), actually got thrown out once at first and stood there is shock as most speed merchants do! Speed galore!


• Most HR’s Female (Maura), also stops balls on 1B with her knees!


• Best Catcher (Barb), got better every game throughout the season


• Best recovery from career ending injury (Nicola). Came back with a fury at bat!


• Least games played (Jeff). Still batted .500!


• Most cardiac arrests (Summer), ‘nuff said.


• Most versatile player (Dave), mind you, he never pitched or catched but there is always next year!


• Best infielder (female) Peggy. Corralled a few heaters this year, and a few off the ankles and shins!


• Best home run average (Rob)…Others were closing in on him as Rob ages.


• Best Hosts (Hugh and Tiny),,,, we only were able to hit Ricks’ one time other than their place….thanks! Rick/Vanessa were great hosts as well!

Team assets:

One set of barely used bases 50 bucks

About a half dozen bats 20 bucks

Lotsa used balls 10 bucks

Catchers Mask (yes we have one) 5 bucks

Total 85 bucks (garage sale value)

Team Debts:

None

Thanks to the “commish” for a great year!

It is rumored that the Herd may have earned a move up to 4^th division next year. Stay tuned for more info as those crafty Elmwood Elkhorns continue their mission towards the 2028 Super Seniors Co-Ed Canadian Championship!

Thanks for a good season - Summer

Injuries plague Kildonan Cup Favourites

It has been said that timing is everything, and things could not be worse for the Elkhorns just days before starting their 2008 playoff run.

"It's not the best situation but I have seen worse" said Summer. The Summer GM then reminisced about his time with the 1992 Rockglen Spitfires in the South Saskatchewan League. "It was horrible, everyone was hurt except our catcher. I played with a broken leg at short stop and we ended up beating Moosomin 14-9. Of all my championships, that one was the most satisfying to date."

That game was also the first time Summer and Hugh went head to head in a Championship final. "I saw this young prodigy playing for Moosomin" said Summer, "he was your typical cocky farm boy that was going to make it big one day. Sure he could play, but he needed mentoring, and he asked me to take him under my wing. I reluctantly agreed, and the rest is history. Now Hugh and his glove are on the cusp of something special, and I feel good for him."

Enough about the good old days, here is the injury report leading into the playoffs:

• Pete Right Ankle (Probable)
• Hugh Left Abdomen (Probable)
• Maura Right Knee (Day to Day)
• Preston Right Knee (Day to Day)
• Jeff Right Calf (Out)
• Summer Every joint (Day to Day, it always is)
  

There were also a few cocktails consumed after the team practice on Tuesday night. You can guarantee there were a few sore heads the next morning. Pictured are Hugh, Summer, and the Elkhorn GM around 4 am.
Noteworthy is the fact that Pete actually said a few times "I should get going", and Hugh just kept saying, "Just one more , wadaya think?". Naturally Summer stayed to ensure no one got hurt.

The practice earlier was rigorous with Summer putting the players through a series of conditioning drills followed by skills evaluations and finished off with Casual providing one on one tutoring of all the players in a skills "mini-camp". "He's been "observing" all year, and he knows where each player needs work" remarked the Summer GM. "We will be fine this weekend, just fine"

Friday night is the start of a new season, see you at the ball park!


Go Herd!