MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Bats swung during an intramural softball game July 11, 2013, as the Reapers went head-to-head with the White Snakes at the softball field located behind the parade deck here.
This game marked an all or nothing bout for the White Snakes, who needed a win to stay alive in the regular season.
The game started out on an even playing field until the second inning as the Reapers quickly established their dominance on the field.
“We are playing our biggest opposing team; the Reapers,” said Beckie Belcher, White Snakes coach. “We knew it was going to be a challenge. I was hoping for a little more heckling and giving each other a hard time, but we are just having fun playing softball.”
As the game played on, the White Snakes began to mount a tremendous comeback in the fourth inning.
“We came out here to win,” said Mike Rodriguez, Reapers right fielder. “It never crossed our minds that we may lose. We have won every game except for one, so this is just another one down for us.”
Though it looked like the White Snakes had returned in the fourth, the level headedness of the Reapers, along with outstanding defensive skills, held the White Snakes off to seal their victory with a score of 19-9.
With their victory over the White Snakes, the Reapers have high hopes for the end of the season tournament, which is quickly approaching.
“We are looking forward to playing in the end of the season tournament,” said Rodriguez. “We are pretty confident that we are going to win it and take home that trophy. It’s been a really great season coming out here and playing with these guys. That’s what it’s all about; a good time.”
Though the White Snakes ended their regular season on a loss, hopes are still high for the tournament.
“This is the end of the season, but the end of the season tournament is coming up on the 20th,” said Belcher. “This game is very exciting. You go from doing bad to getting on a run streak, so ups and downs.”
The end of the season tournament begins July 20, 2013, as the teams face off at the softball fields and slug it out for the coveted first place trophy.