West Berlin Fire and Rescue vs. Philadelphia Flyers

Thursday evening the local West Berlin Fire and Rescue Squads met the Philadelphia Flyers/Phantoms in the second annual fund raising softball game. If you remember the game last year, the locals prevailed in a home run derby with a final score of 34 to 33 West Berlin win. Although the Flyers/Phantoms held down the score this year they were equally impressive in a 22-20 loss.

This type game is a bit unusual with the pre-game rules agreed upon by both teams. First and foremost the intent of the game is fun and fans pleasure. Players were asked to not be overly aggressive, no contact was allowed, sliding was forbidden, players could overrun any base and the Flyers/Phantoms were to be the home team. If you think of it, these are well-justified rules for this type game.

The Flyer/Phantom softball coach, Jim McCorrison had his team ready for serious play this year. He brought in his big guns with the likes of Donald Brashear, Todd Fedoruk and Chris Therien. Jake Kinderchuck, Jeff Smith, James Laux, Wade Skolney, and Peter White supported them.

Not to be outdone, our own Joe Jackson was ready as ever with his squad. The big hitters like Dominic Pinto, Joe Jackson and Brian Law did not let us down. To the amazement of the crowd there was some very fine ball playing again this year. How can you forget the two, yes two, run down plays involving Fedoruk and our own guys? On the first rundown Fedoruk outlasted the play to score for his team. The second time he was caught in the middle by the aggressive play of Bones Shaffer, Dominic Pinto, Joe Jackson and Brian Law.

Once the game ended the Flyer/Phantom players were most gracious to stay around and sign autographs and have their picture taken with spectators. Many a fan had shirts, balls, hockey sticks and what not signed. This was a very "class act" by the visitors.

If you missed this game you missed a treat. Joe Jackson and Jim McCorrison are already planning a rematch for next season. Be sure you keep tuned in to have a very memorable moment as the West Berlin Fire and Rescue Squads face off against the Philadelphia Flyer/Phantom team.

A special thanks is well deserved for the volunteers of the fire company and the Berlin Township Athletic Association for their support in hosting this years game.