It’s the most wonderful time of the year to be a sports fan living here in the West Branch Valley. The long list of events highlighted by the 77th playing of the Little League World Series has been amazing.

I don’t even know where to begin, other than I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how much better I feel focusing on the positive of athletic competition vs the negative of political campaigning. I’m being kind using campaigning — maybe I should go with complaining, because that seems to be the only thing the candidates can agree on. Complaining about how bad the other guy or gal really is. This is then followed up by the candidate taking credit for something they had no involvement with.

I’d better leave that alone or it will take away from my sports euphoria, or maybe yours — and that’s the last thing I want to do. I wish someone would take a Louisville Slugger and knock all the political advertisements right back to where they came from.

Anyone who knows me or reads me understands I love to wear ball caps and give a tip of the cap to someone deserving. I especially love my hats that have the American Flag on the side. I think I’ll carry that thought right on throughout my words this week.

I’ll begin with a tip of my Babe Ruth World Series cap from Salt Lake City many moons ago to West End manager Marc Hess. He has 13 to 16s still playing at the World Series in Branson, Missouri. They advanced through
pool play with only a loss to Korea. As I was writing this, they were preparing to play. The West Enders had a hard-fought win over a good Alabama team to reach the quarterfinals. We’ll have much more next week as hopefully they return to Williamsport with a World Series title. I should throw in here that there’s a reason I call West End President Jim Winder Win Jimder.

Next up, I’m going to go with a tip of my King’s Motel cap from my Little League days on the South Side to Gary Chrisman and Tom O’Malley. I love hearing their Little League World Series broadcast on the radio as I’m traveling throughout our area. They both have been amazing ambassadors for baseball and sports in general over the years. They are both also amazing sports fans that I love talking with. It doesn’t matter what sport Gary’s broadcasting. He makes it sound good. I would have liked to have heard him on the air covering the break-dancing competition at the recently held Paris Olympics, of course, along with Tom doing color commentary.

That gets me to another good friend, Gabe Sinicropi. Here’s the problem: I don’t know what hat to put on. He covers everything from Chamber of Commerce events to the Crosscutters to about every Little League function held. His TV commentary with the folks from WNEP during the Grand Slam Parade was outstanding. I think I’ll go with my Philadelphia Philly cap from one of the first MLB Little League Classics. I’ll finish it up by saying whatever Gabe is putting his voice behind, he researches and is prepared. This includes the work side of things for the Chamber.

A tip of my Webb Weekly cap with the American flag on the side to WNEP sports director Steve Lloyd. I’ve known him since our days roaming the halls of Loyalsock Twp. High School. His energy and enthusiasm while covering the parade were awesome. I especially enjoyed his interaction with the coaches and teams as he climbed on board the floats. He is a great promoter for all the teams in the Channel 16 viewing area. I especially appreciate that he never forgets where he came from.

Steve has already kicked off his high school football coverage, and I can’t wait to watch the Super 16 Final as the season kicks off.

My final tip of the cap this week is for all our PIAA football officials. A group that is definitely underappreciated and often over-criticized. They have a very difficult job, and the truth is most aren’t getting any younger. We need more folks stepping up, becoming certified, and keeping order for Friday night lights and all the games taking place on local fields.

I understand the passion runs deep when it comes to the local gridiron; please set an example of sportsmanship that you would want the kids to follow. Besides, in almost all cases, they have the best view and make the right call.

Well, I’m out of words for the week, good luck and great health to all the athletes as the fall sport season begins.

God Bless America