By Tom Devine ‘20

On Sept. 7, the Crusaders came out victorious.

The Chicago White Sox hosted eight Chicago area high schools to participate in the Play Ball Initiative at Armour Park. The single-elimination 16” softball tournament was the first year Brother Rice played.

Brother Rice’s team was made up with 14 players, and coached by baseball coach, Tim O’Connell.

Brother Rice started off in a momentous win against Washington High School. Senior Nate Sobek came up with huge defensive plays at first base. After the game, Nate said, “I knew I had to support my team in some way. Although, the win was a team effort, and I give credit to all my teammates.”

In the fourth round, Brother Rice faced Farragut High School. The Crusaders won in a gutty performance. The bats “came alive” during the game. The line up from top to bottom scattered the field with hits.

Brother Rice squared off against Whitney Young in the championship game. The Crusaders won the game with a commanding win. The defensive play by the Crusaders crowned them champions.

Senior Colin Campbell was named tournament MVP after playing outstanding all day. Colin responded to his MVP status: “Today was one of the best performances I have ever played. I put on a clinic for everyone to see. Everyone at Armour Park had their eyes locked on me and I put on an absolute show. I’m glad I played the way I did, since the team viewed me as a leader.”