Alumni baseball game brings back memories

By Carol Franch
Senior Photo Editor

The past and present Braves baseball teams gathered to reminise and play a game together Oct. 22.

Head coach Paul O’Neil expressed his excitement at the turnout for the event as he stood at the base of the bleachers and spoke to the players, friends and family.

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He also emphasized the need for people to get the word out about the alumni event so the game becomes a tradition.

O’Neil said his desire is to "bring everyone back to the University."

This was the first time that O’Neil had sponsored the event. He paid from his own pocket because the team "has paid enough."

This was the first alumni game in six years.

The atmosphere was cheery and fun, with many eager onlookers who came to show their support.

After a few group photos of the past teams and the different coaches, everyone who was willing to play gathered on the field.

Following the game, there was food and drinks in the shade of a tent.

Many old friends that hadn't seen each other in years sat together and caught up.

Mike Johnston, a former baseball player, sat with his old teammates remembering games and the first time they played on the new field.

It's a pleasure to come back, the campus is beautiful and the people are great. It's something we should've done a long time ago," Johnston said.