Softball Tournament: by Harry Kooistra

The first Annual Word & Deed Softball Tournament of West Michigan took place on September 19, 2009, at the Christian Reformed Recreation Grounds in Grand Rapids, MI. The event opened at 8:00 a.m. when the first players straggled in and got underway at 8:30 a.m. with the first three opening games.

The weather was perfect: we were blessed with abundant sunshine and a cooling breeze. The contests were fierce but the spirit was jovial as the morning progressed. The little ones were kept busy on the inflatable amusement centers under the supervision of some very patient volunteers. Hot dogs and homemade sloppy joes were served up by another set of very experienced volunteers.

After lunch it became obvious who the leading teams were and the contest became more focused. Apparently, lunch did not slow the players down. In the semi-finals, Pastor VanMaanen of the Little Farms OPC team demonstrated his talents. Besides preaching, he ably demonstrated a “pitch” of a different kind – although slow, it was well-aimed (as usual), but fell a little short of the mark. The co-ed division finals went to VanKempen Electric vs. the Dutton Diggers. The VanKempen leader cut quite a figure in his natty blue and grey uniform, a little different than his board meeting attire. He had the distinction of being the oldest player, but by no means the slowest. VanKempen Electric won in hard-fought contest.

M&S Siding covered itself with glory by winning the men’s division and was considered the tournament champion. Harvest OPC finished second but deserves an award for heart, as they lost by the slimmest of margins even though several of their players were limping around the bases by the end of the final game.

Judging from the moans and groans toward the end of the day and certainly on the Sabbath morning following, the more seasoned players had underestimated the ravages that years take on the body. Maybe next year we can get the analgesic manufacturers to sponsor a team or two. Several casualties should be mentioned: Al Moss suffered a twisted ankle and had to be carried off the field after being deemed unfit for further combat. Roelie Byker’s car suffered a major dent to the driver’s side door due to a spectacular but somewhat misplaced line drive. And the third incident nearly took out a player who was beaned in the noggin by a base umpire’s totally misguided throw. Talk of possible lawsuits stemming from this incident was quickly squashed due to the inaccessibility of intimidated witnesses. There was a doctor and a lawyer present that day and both reported that business was brisk.

90 players participated, at least that many more formed the cheering section, and all had a very good time (with the exception of the injured). The camaraderie, fellowship and sportsmanship displayed by the players from area churches were gratifying to see. All agreed that this is an excellent way to raise funds to support a worthwhile cause.

A total of $11,500 was raised for agricultural projects in Guatemala and Nicaragua. Our heartfelt thanks is extended to all the players, supporters and sponsors. Thank you for your generosity and we look forward to seeing you next year, the Lord willing.

Harry Kooistra is a member of the Word & Deed USA board and attends Trinity United Reformed Church in Caledonia, Michigan.