2014 Co-Ed Spring Softball League Wrap Up
At the beginning of April, TEAM Master Services embarked on their first-ever community softball league journey. The games were held at the Sports Park off Oak Ridge Highway. The team played every Thursday evening.
The team consisted of employees and some of their family members. Human Resources Manager and catcher for the team, Kathryn Ann Holt, reflects, “We had different players almost every week so it was difficult to coordinate games, pool our team strengths and pull off a win.” With a smile on her face, she added, “It was definitely a learning experience for everyone.”
The first team practice was held on April 3rd, and the first game was a week later on April 10th. The women players met up a day earlier for a practice session to try and lower any inhibitions they may have had, seeing as most of them had never played before. Josh Smith, one of Master Services's owners, admits that he was pleasantly surprised at the ladies' abilities out on the field.
At the beginning of the season, things were looking optimistic. On Josh Smith’s first time up to bat, he swung with all his might in hopes to send Kathryn Ann to home plate… He admits that he might have swung a little too hard, because when he did, he missed the ball completely and his knee cap became instantly dislocated. An ambulance was called right away and he was escorted off the field. He had to take some time off from the league and attend regular physical therapy. This accident proves Josh Smith is no professional athlete, but he definitely knows his stuff when it comes to foundation repair and waterproofing! Anyway, he didn’t let the injury discourage him! He had fully recovered within a few weeks and was able to play in the final game on June 5th.
Some of the regulars:
Kathryn Ann Holt as catcher, Walt Kimbro and Scott Seward as pitcher, Dan Maurer in the outfield, Kendra Holt at 2nd base and Daniel Cline at shortstop. The award for #1 fan goes to Robin Hurst (Office Manager) who was at every game cheering on TEAM Master Services!
When reminiscing about the games, it always brings a smile to our employees’ faces. Kathryn Ann laughed and stated, “Some of the teams took it very seriously, but our team was focused on having fun... And we succeeded!” Dan Maurer fondly recalls laughing with Cole Hyams while waiting in the dugout and scoping out the competition.
Master Services ended up losing all but one game; however, they are proud of their win and are happy to have the new memories! It was a true bonding experience for everyone. They are planning a cookout later this month to celebrate their accomplishments and they plan to play again next year! Josh Smith says he sees some wins in their 2015 future.