GRAND OPENING OF THE KENTFIELD BABE RUTH FIELDS:

Alumni and High School teams stand together after the Kentfield Alumni Game on May 8th (photo submitted)

May 8th, a sunny bright mother’s day in Oskaloosa, brought 158 alumni, friends and fans, to the Lacey Recreation Complex for the grand opening of the new Babe Ruth Fields in honor of Charlie Kentfield and the 65 years he devoted to Oskaloosa Babe Ruth.

The keynote address, given by Joe Crookham, assured listeners that Charlie was behind the new fields project and the fields are named for him. Following the opening, a skills competition and home run derby for three age divisions was hosted. Winners and trophy recipients: U13 division Blake VanVeldhuizen; 13-15yr old division Colton Swanson and 16-19 yr old division Austin Westercamp.

A lively alumni vs high school game ended the day with much “smack talk” from the younger team prior to the game but ending in a score of 0-5, in hard breathing but happy alumni’s victory! Heckling and laughter from the stands could be heard throughout the game with comments such as “Bring ’em closer!” or “Get my sweat pants! Get my sweat pants! ” from an alumni team member in anticipation of sliding into bases. Altogether the game was friendly, fun and enjoyed in high spirits from participants and spectators alike. Jason Schaffer, a helper with the event and participant of the alumni game, stated” It was a great day! It was fun getting back together and playing again with those guys! I had fun!” There was a request at the end of the day to make the “Charlie Kentfield Alumni Game” an annual event. As a fund raiser, the event raised $680.00 in concessions and entry fees.