Iola-Scandinavia @ Manawa
April 23, 2024

It simply doesn't get any better than this. I know and have worked for Mr. Anderson and Mr. Petke many times. I could not have more respect for these coaches and their staffs. All girls on both teams are very pleasant and respectful to umpires, and even more importantly to each other. I don't believe an opposing batter ever had to pick up a bat after a foul ball. The catcher handed it back to her. Both coaches routinely applauded good defensive plays by their opponent. The Iola-Scandinavia catcher never let me sweep off the plate, she wiped it with her glove whenever necessary. There was a good crowd of fans watching the game. Not one word to an umpire by any of the spectators, they just cheered and encouraged their kids. That behavior starts with the coaches, and it runs through the entire program. Both schools and communities should be very proud of their kids. These teams epitomize what high school sports are all about. not only because they play very good softball, but because they are even better people.

Reporting Official:  Gary Hagberg