Pictured left to right on the top row, Kurt Sprotte, Richard Gregory, John Derby, Peter Kourikas and Martin Cunningham. Bottom row John Wein, Billy Sollin, Bobby Hand, Richard Carpentier, Angelo Conetta, Gerard Stigliano, Mark DiPierro and John Leto. On Sunday October 19, the Garden City Pub Defectors defeated Leo's Pub in the Men's Over 35 Softball League Championship Game. The final score was 8-5 and closed another chapter in the incredible 8 year rivalry between the 2 teams. Most of the Garden City Pub players had been members of the Sopranos, which had battled either Leo's (3 times) or Dinos (2 times) for every league championship in the past 5 years (and 6 out of the last 7 years), coming up short each time, despite playing some of the most memorable games ever played in the league. After another heartbreaking loss last year, the team could have easily given up their quest. Instead, the team changed its attitude, its name, its sponsor, and added a few key players (the New Guys) to its roster. A strong effort was made to have FUN every game and win or lose as an entire team. These changes were instrumental in attaining the championship.

In the championship game, the GC Pub quickly jumped to a 5 run lead in the first inning, stunning Leo's pitcher with timely and well-placed hitting. The lead was never surrendered, despite several challenges from Leo's. The game was well played and intense as usual - but even the most dramatic moments were broken up by quick-witted comments that reminded all that they were there to play a game and have fun. Some very questionable calls made by both umpires raised some eyebrows when prior to the game both umpires were offered free HVAC service and swimming privileges for life from a very influential Leo's player. After these questionable calls were made it looked like GC Pub was ready to implode but not this day. Co-captain and ultimate fighter Peter Kourikas gave an emotional speech which stressed discipline and ended with these words. "we are made to persist; that's how we find out who we are." This helped the team regain its focus going into the bottom of the last inning; GC Pub had a commanding 4 run lead. True to form in the last inning, Leo's rallied quickly, loading the basis with no outs. For many this was deja vu all over again but not this year. GC Pub pitcher and team MVP (Richard Carpentier) kept the final three batters off balance inducing them to hit three weak balls and made the last three outs look easy. For the first time in 6 attempts, the fates finally smiled on GC Pub was welcomed into the elite club of league champions joining Leos and Dinos.

The road to the championship started off with a first round bye and a 2-0 win over the scouts in round two. The GC Pub easily handled the Uptown Express in the third round even after a desperate attempt by the Express having the umpires check for illegal bats. These tactics worked against them and inspired the GC Pub especially Bobby "early bird" Hand whose base running helped the Pub win.

The players would like to thank the entire Leo's team for playing a competitive game and their tremendous sportsmanship. Thank you also to the three gentlemen from the opposing teams who celebrated with the victors at the GC Pub. They truly know the meaning of friendship. Most of all, a special thank you to the Garden City Pub's Janie, Chef Scotty, Big Bob, Shocky and Jessica. It was truly a year of great fun. The championship will last a lifetime and can never be taken away. We are looking forward to defending the crown next year.