There can be a lot of honor in second place.
City Councilmember Eric A. Ulrich delivered this message to the Ozone-Howard Blue Devils as he helped them celebrate their spectacular season at his office on Monday, August 9.
The Blue Devils won the regional championship and made it all the way to the sectional finals, where they lost to South Shore of Staten Island, 6-1. It was the strongest showing any team in Ozone-Howard ever displayed, and Ulrich said they did it as underdogs; the perfect example of the Ozone-Howard community.
“You guys helped put this neighborhood on the map. This community is so very proud of your accomplishment,” said Ulrich, who recalled his own days playing in the Ozone Howard Little League. “There is no doubt in my mind that each of you is destined for greatness, both on and off the field.”
The team’s greatness on the field was helped significantly by both parents and coaches. Assistant Coach Ron Spadaccini said that everyone involved with the team is extremely proud of the boys’ efforts in defying the odds and making it to the finals.
“We practiced almost every day and at times is was long and exhausting,” said Spadaccini. “They boys turned in an exceptional performance and this is something they will remember for the rest of their lives.”
The Blue Devils won the local District 27 championship and the first two rounds in the sectional playoffs before losing in the finals. The entire team was grateful to the Councilmember for inviting them, and also very proud of themselves for proving their opponents wrong in almost every regard.
Jack Klebonas, 13, said that he’ll always remember the fun he had this season and that even though they lost, it will always remain a great memory.
“We had such a great team,” said Klebonas, the team’s shortstop and pitcher. “It was such an honor to play on this team, even though we came out on the short end.”
Winning two sectional playoff games was unexpected enough, according to Shawn Charles, Jr., who plays first base, third base and pitches.
“Sure, we could’ve done better, but nobody thought we’d even score a single run,” said Charles. “We got a lot further than anyone imagined we would and I’ll always remember that and be proud.”
They may have lost, but Ulrich believes they hit a home run in terms of representing their community with grit and determination.
“This says a lot about our community,” said Ulrich. “These young men are the best and the brightest that this community has to offer and I’d say the future is looking bright.”
