The Oradell Rec Championship. A Game for the Ages!

It was a gorgeous Wednesday night in Bergen County, and at first pitch, it was obvious there was the smell of victory in the air for both clubs.

It was a true pitching duel between Oddo Law’s Charlie Racine and Butzel, Karadimas, Carrabba & Testin’s TJ Buono. By the 3rd, Oddo Law was up by one. The hits and plays kept coming. It was battle of true baseball talent, and by the 5th inning, Oddo Law took a 2-0 lead. Reliever Matt Quinn shut down their opponent, and in the 6th, he collected a save and secured victory for the now American League Champs. But after all of that, neither team walked away ignoring their rival. Instead, they did what they did all season long at the end of each game. They stood on their respective lines and shouted ”Good game” as they walked passed each player slapping hands and giving knuckles. There were smiles and a little razzing, but ultimately, a true boys club of enthusiasm. The game was complete, and yes, Oddo Law pulled it out, but it was a close one, and a very competitive championship game from both sides.

Now the Oradell Rec season has concluded. It was a fantastic season filled with terrific coaches, great players and a lot of teamwork and good sportsmanship the entire 3 months. 5 teams competed in the American League season, but only 1 ended up on top. Tip your cap to those teams who worked their tails off, and a standing “O” goes to all the parents and friends who came out to support the Oradell Little League Program.

Much like the excitement of Opening Day, the closing ceremonies were equally as exciting. No, the teams didn’t separate on the field for photos and then wander off. Instead, they united, proving Little League in Oradell is a game, a great game, and in it there are friendships, bonds and the true love for baseball.

In the end... isn’t that what it’s all about?