Pam Dudding
Contributing writer
When someone experiences a great moment as a kid, he or she tends to cherish it for a lifetime. Approximately 30 men who played on different county summer baseball teams shared multiple stories last year when they came together for the Second Annual Old-Timer’s Baseball Reunion.
“We are trying to keep these reunions going as long as possible,” Chester (Gary Porterfield) said. “We wish we had started having them earlier, but happy we are doing them now.”
On Saturday, September 29, at 1 p.m., the Third Annual Old-Timer’s West Virginia/Virginia Independent Baseball Reunion will converge again on the grounds of the Moncove Lake State Park at Shelter #2.
The Baseball Leagues were from the 60s, 70s and early 80s. The teams were from Upper Craigs Creek, New Castle, Paint Bank, Waiteville, Sweet Springs, Gap Mills, Boiling Springs, Gold Bond, Big Stoney Creek and Sinking Creek.
“We would love to see more people from Craig County who played to join us,” said Johnny Beane who was one of the youngest players on the Waiteville team. “There are fewer people every year as they are slowly passing away.”
Chester added that they just ask everyone to bring a dish, a chair and some good conversation or good ears to hear some good stories. The hope is to have music again this year for all to enjoy.
“It’s a great time with all the old buddies,” Porterfield said. “Don’t miss it. Come on out and tell anyone else you know who played ball with us back then to come also.”
Everyone is encouraged to bring their old pictures of the games. Wives and families are also encouraged to join in on the reunion and potluck.
Danny Lucus can be contacted at 304-772-3434 for any questions.
“Time is flying by so don’t put off coming,” Beane noted. “Soon, there won’t be any of us left so let’s enjoy this time while we can.”
