The 13th
annual Gasparilla Classic, a three-division tournament held
Feb. 17-18 and presented by the Suncoast Softball League,
was the largest Tampa has hosted. There were 59 teams
competing in the B, C and D divisions. Many teams flocked
south escaping the cold and bitter winter weather.
The
competition was as strong as ever and some would agree the
weekend had a mini softball World Series feel to it. “The
competition was amazing, said Anthony Rodeghier, tournament
director. “There were several teams that had a reputation of
being the ones to beat, and most of those teams were
eliminated before noon on Sunday. That being said, there
were teams that definitely came to play and eliminated the
favorites quickly. As they say, any given Sunday.”
In the B-division, Orlando Crush shocked three time
defending champion and rival Orlando Force to finish first.
Tampa Krewe shook off a rough start to finish third place.
The best action was in the C-division. The 28 team field
featured powerhouses, Atlanta Justice, Chicago Spin Hitmen,
Atlanta Packers and Philadelphia Triple Play.; none were
left when the tournament concluded. Tampa Mojo, who was sent
to the loser’s bracket early, ran through seven games Sunday
before running out of gas to rival Tampa Blast in the
championship game. “It was incredible to see both of these
teams play. Despite the cold winds, they were both very hot!
The efforts displayed by both teams was inspiring and it was
a reminder for me of why I participate in this crazy game of
softball,” Rodeghier said.
The D-division featured 22 teams with the Palladin Warriors
of Fort Lauderdale knocking off the Sarasota Strokers in the
final. The Austin Texas Titans put up a great showing
finishing a close third.
Most of the teams were from Tampa, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale
and Atlanta; however there were teams from New England,
Knoxville, Hollywood, Indianapolis and Virginia.
The Gasparilla Classic is held each year on President’s Day
weekend. This tournament is a must for teams that have not
experienced top-notch competition and fun. “Every year, it
is always exciting to be a part of an alternative lifestyle
event like this, Rodeghier said. “ It takes an incredible
amount of man power to pull this tournament off and I am
humbled to be a part of it. It was amazing to see the team
work involved and to see the league coming together to host
cities from all over the country. Annually, we continue to
grow and we continue to be the largest event of our kind.
All in all, I think the tournament went incredibly well.”
