IBEW 1245 members work hard, and they play hard. Sometimes they play so hard that they hurt themselves.
But despite a player injury that occurred during the final game of the day, IBEW 1245’s Second Annual Central Valley Charity Softball Tournament was a rousing success.
Nearly 60 players from all over the Central Valley came to compete for the title, while their friends and family cheered them on from the sidelines and enjoyed some tasty nachos and tacos. Attendance at this year’s event was triple the number who joined the action last year. Altogether, more than 120 people came out to the charity event, which only came to fruition thanks to the hard work of Central Valley Organizing Committee members Rodrigo Flores, Rachel Ramirez-Hill, Carl Olguin and Rosario Garcia.
“It was a great day full of delicious food, raffle prizes, and fun with family and friends,” said Organizing Steward Rosario Garcia. “This year’s competition was fierce, with six teams coming out from all areas of our great valley to make history … as the first team to win the 1245’s Central Valley Organizing Committee Softball Tournament.”
Co-champions: the Modesto Skull Crushers
Unfortunately, due to an injury that occurred when a player was racing to score a run, the final game ended early. The two teams that faced off in that last game — the Skull Crushers (Modesto PG&E Yard) and Sweet Lu’s (a local restaurant) – demonstrated true sportsmanship by agreeing to call it a tie.
Despite the abrupt ending to the day, pretty much everyone left the field feeling great (with the exception of the injured player, who wasn’t feeling so great at the time, but is now recuperating after undergoing surgery to repair his broken leg).
“We are truly happy with our union”
“I realized how meaningful the event was to our members when I received several calls the following day from members offering to help at next year’s event … and donate with whatever they can give. The feedback I’m getting from members is ‘We are truly happy with our union,’” said Organizing Steward Carl Olguin. “What thrills me the most is that our members are already planning for next year’s event. What an amazing feeling. All our hard work is finally paying off!”
Co-champions: Sweet Lu’s
So far, the charity event raised $1985.05 for the city of Ceres Youth Programs, which provides scholarships for low-income children to participate in recreational sports leagues. Additional donations are still coming in.
“I can hardly wait for next year’s event,” said Olguin. “I know our members will come through as always and our attendance will double!”
If you live in the Central Valley and would like to be involved in next year’s tournament, contact your Business Rep or a member of the organizing committee.
