Apples Delight
FreshPoint runs record to 3 - 0
Voice of America
Nashville, TN:
In what was easily their toughest game of the year, the FreshPoint Apples were pushed to the brink of defeat last night before surging back in their final at bat to claim their league leading 3rd victory of the season. Playing against a backdrop of threatening weather in the area, it was in the end the thunder of the Apple bats that made the loudest noise of the night.
The game was a tug of war from inning one with the Cheatam Capitals and the Apples exchanging the lead inning by inning. Trailing by one going into the final inning of the contest the Apples did the unthinkable and exploded for 14 runs to put the closely fought game out of reach. It was hit after hit, run after run for the Apples as they brought the sold out crowd to their feet during the slaughter that was the final inning of the game..
Led by game MVP Patty Pender's 5 hit night which included 2 doubles and a triple that hit off the top of the fence , the Apples set franchise records for runs in an inning ( 14 ) and hits in a game ( 39 ). Along with Pender, Apples Shane Alexander, Robin Meadows, Christi Copous and Brooke Byram had 3 or more hits to help the Apples secure the come from behind victory.
Off the field, and before the game, it was a ticket scalpers dream come true yesterday in Nashville. Following the Apples morning workouts, Head Coach and Starting Pitcher Greg Swafford complained of soreness in his shoulder and it was soon concluded that he would not be able to pitch in last nights game. Almost immediately rumors began to fly via text messaging, emails and radio call in shows that in Swafford's absence it would most likely be Former Apple Great and Future Hall of Famer Don Bernitt who would take to the mound and pitch for the Apples. When it was confirmed by the Apples front office that Bernitt would in fact pitch, ticket scalpers began to command and receive double and triple face value for the few tickets on the market. " I've never seen anything like this " said one scalper as he was led away in handcuffs following his attempt to sell counterfeit tickets to a undercover police officer.
Come gametime it was indeed Bernitt who took the mound for the Apples and as has become customary when Bernitt plays, nobody left the stadium disappointed. Bernitt was sharp from inning one and by games end had recorded 7 strikeouts while only walking one. As usual, Bernitt shied away from any attention after the game and said that he was most concerned about the teams victory and not his own stats.. When asked directly about his ability to step in and pitch on such short notice, Bernitt responded to the press by saying there's no " I " in team, but fortunately tonight there was " M and E "
It's now 3 up and 3 down for the Apples. Can they run the table and finish undefeated? it's never been done before in league history, so only time will tell.. For now there is one thing that can be said for sure.................. How bout them Apples!!
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Indianapolis Star
Nashville, TN
Apples Rocked by Scandal
Copous, Jenkins among suspended Apples
The 2007 FreshPoint Apples were shaken to the core this weekend as it was learned the 5 Apple regulars have been suspended from the team.. Although little is known at this time about the details swirling around the Apples, it has been confirmed that Christi Copous, Keith Jenkins, Tony Byram, Sarah Phillips and James Roberts have been suspended from the club.
Unnamed sources close to the team would only say that the 5 players suspended over the weekend had " violated team rules. " Of the 5 only First Baseman Christi Copous could be reached following the breaking news. " Yea, I put myself before the team " said Copous when peppered about the suspension.
The question to be asked now is how long will the suspensions last and what if any penalties will be handed out by the Apple Front Office. Apple Spokesman Jeff Oliver would not be specific but did say that the 5 Apples in question better get familiar with the phrase " I'm Buying. "
The length of the suspension will in fact be answered this Weds night as the Apples are scheduled to play game three of the 2007 regular season... Will this off the filed scandal affect the teams play or not will be answered at that time. For now one thing is clear... How bout them Apples............
Nashville, TN
Apples Rocked by Scandal
Copous, Jenkins among suspended Apples
The 2007 FreshPoint Apples were shaken to the core this weekend as it was learned the 5 Apple regulars have been suspended from the team.. Although little is known at this time about the details swirling around the Apples, it has been confirmed that Christi Copous, Keith Jenkins, Tony Byram, Sarah Phillips and James Roberts have been suspended from the club.
Unnamed sources close to the team would only say that the 5 players suspended over the weekend had " violated team rules. " Of the 5 only First Baseman Christi Copous could be reached following the breaking news. " Yea, I put myself before the team " said Copous when peppered about the suspension.
The question to be asked now is how long will the suspensions last and what if any penalties will be handed out by the Apple Front Office. Apple Spokesman Jeff Oliver would not be specific but did say that the 5 Apples in question better get familiar with the phrase " I'm Buying. "
The length of the suspension will in fact be answered this Weds night as the Apples are scheduled to play game three of the 2007 regular season... Will this off the filed scandal affect the teams play or not will be answered at that time. For now one thing is clear... How bout them Apples............
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Apples On A Roll
2nd win of the season in the books
Baltimore Sun
Nashville, TN
After being thrown a spitball by Mother Nature and having last week's game rained out, the FreshPoint Apples took to the field last night and by games end left no doubt that they are a team to be reckoned with as the chase for the World Coed Softball Championship unfolds.
Paced by the explosive bat of newly signed free agent and game MVP Shane Alexander, the Apples recorded their second consecutive win of the season by trouncing the visiting Antioch Attitudes by a score of 15 - 8.
"We didn't play our best, but we won " said Apple Head Coach and Starting Pitcher Greg Swafford following the game. Echoing Swaffords comments, All Star Center fielder John Jones added " even though didn't play as good as we can, I sure wouldn't want to play against us. "
As was the case in week one of the season, the Apples scored early and often. Led by Left fielder Greg Treep's 3 hit night and a monstrous bases loaded triple by First baseman Christi Copous that put the game out of reach in the 4th inning, the Apple's now find in first place with their early season 2 - 0 record.
Joining newcomer Alexander to the field for the first time this year was Apple Veteran Tiffany Smith who missed all of spring training and week one of the season while recovering from a torn ACL. " it's good to be back " said Smith following the game. " It's been hard watching the team play and not being able to be out here."
Defensively for the Apples, it was a case of you had to see it to believe it.. In what will undoubtedly become part of this years highlight film for the Apples, Outfielder Patty Pender was on the front end of a play that had the sold out crowd on their feet and in awe.. On a hard hit ball into the gap Pender dove hard to her right and was able to pop the ball into the air long enough for the trailing Shane Alexander to snag the ball in midair for the final out of the 5th inning. " Did that just happen ? " questioned 3rd baseman Keith Jenkins as he trotted off the field following the dazzling play that had just taken place. " That's my sister " chimed Apple 2nd Baseman Robin Meadows as she joined Catcher Brooke Byram to celebrate the play of the night.
In what was then a storybook finish to the night, Coach Swafford waived to the left field bullpen in the 6th inning and brought the fans to their feet for a second time when he called upon Former Apple Great and Future Hall of Famer Don Bernitt to pitch the final inning of the game.. Bernitt disappointed no one as he struck out the side to end the game and picked up the save for the Apples. When asked if this might be the first of many appearances this year as the teams closer Bernitt answered by saying " I can say without a doubt that it's a denfinite maybe "
So that's two W's for the Apples and although it's still early in the season one thing that can be said for sure..... How bout them Apples!
2nd win of the season in the books
Baltimore Sun
Nashville, TN
After being thrown a spitball by Mother Nature and having last week's game rained out, the FreshPoint Apples took to the field last night and by games end left no doubt that they are a team to be reckoned with as the chase for the World Coed Softball Championship unfolds.
Paced by the explosive bat of newly signed free agent and game MVP Shane Alexander, the Apples recorded their second consecutive win of the season by trouncing the visiting Antioch Attitudes by a score of 15 - 8.
"We didn't play our best, but we won " said Apple Head Coach and Starting Pitcher Greg Swafford following the game. Echoing Swaffords comments, All Star Center fielder John Jones added " even though didn't play as good as we can, I sure wouldn't want to play against us. "
As was the case in week one of the season, the Apples scored early and often. Led by Left fielder Greg Treep's 3 hit night and a monstrous bases loaded triple by First baseman Christi Copous that put the game out of reach in the 4th inning, the Apple's now find in first place with their early season 2 - 0 record.
Joining newcomer Alexander to the field for the first time this year was Apple Veteran Tiffany Smith who missed all of spring training and week one of the season while recovering from a torn ACL. " it's good to be back " said Smith following the game. " It's been hard watching the team play and not being able to be out here."
Defensively for the Apples, it was a case of you had to see it to believe it.. In what will undoubtedly become part of this years highlight film for the Apples, Outfielder Patty Pender was on the front end of a play that had the sold out crowd on their feet and in awe.. On a hard hit ball into the gap Pender dove hard to her right and was able to pop the ball into the air long enough for the trailing Shane Alexander to snag the ball in midair for the final out of the 5th inning. " Did that just happen ? " questioned 3rd baseman Keith Jenkins as he trotted off the field following the dazzling play that had just taken place. " That's my sister " chimed Apple 2nd Baseman Robin Meadows as she joined Catcher Brooke Byram to celebrate the play of the night.
In what was then a storybook finish to the night, Coach Swafford waived to the left field bullpen in the 6th inning and brought the fans to their feet for a second time when he called upon Former Apple Great and Future Hall of Famer Don Bernitt to pitch the final inning of the game.. Bernitt disappointed no one as he struck out the side to end the game and picked up the save for the Apples. When asked if this might be the first of many appearances this year as the teams closer Bernitt answered by saying " I can say without a doubt that it's a denfinite maybe "
So that's two W's for the Apples and although it's still early in the season one thing that can be said for sure..... How bout them Apples!
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Apples Shine in Season Opener
Cold temperatures no match for hot bats
Boston Globe:
Nashville, TN
With falling temperatures and a stiff north wind blowing, it seemed more like football season than softball season last night as the 2007 FreshPoint Apples opened their season with a crushing 28 - 7 win over the visiting Affion Angles at the Granny White Sports Complex in suburban Nashville.
The Apples scored in all but one inning in a game that was never in doubt. Led by game MVP James Roberts who batted in 7 runs including 4 on a 5th inning Grand Slam, the Apples hit the field running and have quickly established themselves as a team to be watched as the chase is now on for the World Coed Softball Championship.
A look at the official score book following the game said it all.. Every Apple in the lineup had multiple hits and scored a run.. Outfielders Tony Byram and John Jones each brought big bats to the game as the Apples put on a hitting clinic for the sold out crowd to enjoy. Not to be outdone, Patty Pender, Robin Meadows and Christi Copous each chipped with timely hits to keep rallies alive to help the Apples claim their first victory of the season.
Starting Pitcher Greg Swafford pitched a near flawless game to pick up the win for the Apples. Along with making several nice grabs to start double plays on defense, Swafford hit two towering shots to the deepest part of the stadium including one in the 6th inning to score Nate Harlan and Sarah Milam to end the Apples scoring for the night.
Defensively for the Apples last night it was the Brooke Byram and Keith Jenkins show. Byram, who is returning for another season as Catcher for the Apples was quick as a cat as she pounced on an early inning bunt and threw the runner out at first to end an early inning rally by the visiting team.. Then there was the play of Shortstop Keith Jenkins who made big play after big play including a spectacular diving over the shoulder grab that crushed the life out of the Apples opening game opponent and brought the capacity crowd to their feet.
The biggest cheer of the night was handed out in the first inning when ole # 5 Former Apple Great and Future Hall of Famer Don Bernitt trotted out of the Apple dugout to take over the duties of third base coach for the Apples. Bernitt was seen after the game icing his shoulder down following the evening that saw him wave in runner after runner. Bernitt was also involved in the biggest play of the night which went unseen by almost all on the field or in the stands.. It was confirmed by Umpires after the game that a keen eye by Bernitt pointed out that the visiting team had introduced an illegal ball into the game which gone unnoticed could have switched the balance of power away from the Apples. When asked what it was that made him question the ball in play, Bernitt responded by saying " this game is 50% physical and 90% mental, that's why we teach the kids to keep your EYE ON THE BALL. "
So it's 1 down and 9 to go for the Apples.. Where this ride will end is any ones guess but for now one thing can be said for sure............................. How bout them Apples !!
Cold temperatures no match for hot bats
Boston Globe:
Nashville, TN
With falling temperatures and a stiff north wind blowing, it seemed more like football season than softball season last night as the 2007 FreshPoint Apples opened their season with a crushing 28 - 7 win over the visiting Affion Angles at the Granny White Sports Complex in suburban Nashville.
The Apples scored in all but one inning in a game that was never in doubt. Led by game MVP James Roberts who batted in 7 runs including 4 on a 5th inning Grand Slam, the Apples hit the field running and have quickly established themselves as a team to be watched as the chase is now on for the World Coed Softball Championship.
A look at the official score book following the game said it all.. Every Apple in the lineup had multiple hits and scored a run.. Outfielders Tony Byram and John Jones each brought big bats to the game as the Apples put on a hitting clinic for the sold out crowd to enjoy. Not to be outdone, Patty Pender, Robin Meadows and Christi Copous each chipped with timely hits to keep rallies alive to help the Apples claim their first victory of the season.
Starting Pitcher Greg Swafford pitched a near flawless game to pick up the win for the Apples. Along with making several nice grabs to start double plays on defense, Swafford hit two towering shots to the deepest part of the stadium including one in the 6th inning to score Nate Harlan and Sarah Milam to end the Apples scoring for the night.
Defensively for the Apples last night it was the Brooke Byram and Keith Jenkins show. Byram, who is returning for another season as Catcher for the Apples was quick as a cat as she pounced on an early inning bunt and threw the runner out at first to end an early inning rally by the visiting team.. Then there was the play of Shortstop Keith Jenkins who made big play after big play including a spectacular diving over the shoulder grab that crushed the life out of the Apples opening game opponent and brought the capacity crowd to their feet.
The biggest cheer of the night was handed out in the first inning when ole # 5 Former Apple Great and Future Hall of Famer Don Bernitt trotted out of the Apple dugout to take over the duties of third base coach for the Apples. Bernitt was seen after the game icing his shoulder down following the evening that saw him wave in runner after runner. Bernitt was also involved in the biggest play of the night which went unseen by almost all on the field or in the stands.. It was confirmed by Umpires after the game that a keen eye by Bernitt pointed out that the visiting team had introduced an illegal ball into the game which gone unnoticed could have switched the balance of power away from the Apples. When asked what it was that made him question the ball in play, Bernitt responded by saying " this game is 50% physical and 90% mental, that's why we teach the kids to keep your EYE ON THE BALL. "
So it's 1 down and 9 to go for the Apples.. Where this ride will end is any ones guess but for now one thing can be said for sure............................. How bout them Apples !!
Monday, April 2, 2007
Houston Chronicle:
Nashville, TN.
Although the calender showed it was April Fool's Day there were no tricks to be played as the 2007 FreshPoint Apples wrapped up their Spring Training schedule over the weekend with their final practice before Wednesday's season opener at Granny White Park. With a full month of practice behind them the Apples appear ready for their 9:00 p.m. opening game which will be broadcast live and for the first time in HD on DirectSoftball TV
Following their final practice of the pre-season, team equipment manger Art Reno unveiled the teams new uniforms before a throng of well wishers who were on hand at the Apple's training facility for the occasion.. The new look was well received by all and reflects the teams commitment to bring another championship to the storied history of the club.. ( see attachment )
When asked about his outlook on this years team, first year Head Coach Greg Swafford replied " did I really sign that contract ? " This years team will be led by returning players Christi Copous, Robin Meadows, Patty Pender, John Jones, James Roberts, Brooke Byram, Keith Jenkins, Nate Harlan, Tony Byram as well as a few new faces that have yet to sign contracts and will remain unidentified until it is determined if they are good enough to make the team..
One notable face not see this weekend was former Apple Great and Future Hall of Famer Don Bernitt.. When questioned about Bernitt's absence, Coach Swafford refused to answer any questions and directed all inquiries to League Commissioner Sam Metz. Attempts to reach Metz over the weekend were not successful and Bernitt's fate remains a mystery.. Unconfirmed reports have placed Bernitt on double secret probation following his rumored arrest over the offseason. Sources close to the team have said that Bernitt faces misdemeanor charges of " inciting " after he promised to " make it rain " at a local nightclub if the Apples were to win their second World Coed Softball Championship this year. For now it appears that all in the know are remaining quiet and it is yet to be seen as to the outcome of these reports.
Here we go again... How bout them Apples..................................
Nashville, TN.
Although the calender showed it was April Fool's Day there were no tricks to be played as the 2007 FreshPoint Apples wrapped up their Spring Training schedule over the weekend with their final practice before Wednesday's season opener at Granny White Park. With a full month of practice behind them the Apples appear ready for their 9:00 p.m. opening game which will be broadcast live and for the first time in HD on DirectSoftball TV
Following their final practice of the pre-season, team equipment manger Art Reno unveiled the teams new uniforms before a throng of well wishers who were on hand at the Apple's training facility for the occasion.. The new look was well received by all and reflects the teams commitment to bring another championship to the storied history of the club.. ( see attachment )
When asked about his outlook on this years team, first year Head Coach Greg Swafford replied " did I really sign that contract ? " This years team will be led by returning players Christi Copous, Robin Meadows, Patty Pender, John Jones, James Roberts, Brooke Byram, Keith Jenkins, Nate Harlan, Tony Byram as well as a few new faces that have yet to sign contracts and will remain unidentified until it is determined if they are good enough to make the team..
One notable face not see this weekend was former Apple Great and Future Hall of Famer Don Bernitt.. When questioned about Bernitt's absence, Coach Swafford refused to answer any questions and directed all inquiries to League Commissioner Sam Metz. Attempts to reach Metz over the weekend were not successful and Bernitt's fate remains a mystery.. Unconfirmed reports have placed Bernitt on double secret probation following his rumored arrest over the offseason. Sources close to the team have said that Bernitt faces misdemeanor charges of " inciting " after he promised to " make it rain " at a local nightclub if the Apples were to win their second World Coed Softball Championship this year. For now it appears that all in the know are remaining quiet and it is yet to be seen as to the outcome of these reports.
Here we go again... How bout them Apples..................................
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