by James Tate
Army Rivalry Classic
Celebrating the 2nd Annual Army Rivalry Classic game, the Silverwolves defeated the Royals 11-0 on a sunny Saturday afternoon. The game was moved to Saturday after a week of rain and snow in Northern Utah. The Silverwolve’s home field looked great and was ready for a fun contest for these two rival schools. This game will be the schools’ only meeting as they compete in different regions.
The game honors the veterans of the armed services that have served and are serving in the military. The Ogden U.S. Army Recruiting Station sponsors the contest led by Staff Sergeant Hope K. Courtney. “Our office wanted to engage and be part of this rivalry for the second straight year,” said Courtney. “We want to encourage and motivate both teams to do their best on the field and in the community.” The impressive trophy comprises three baseball bats in the upright position, each bat in the colors of the Silverwlves and Royals, and a home plate at the top and bottom. Vullo Bat Company designed the trophy that goes to the winning school after the game, and the Silverwoles will keep the trophy for at least one more year.
First and second innings
The honor of starting on the mound for both teams was junior Brandon Brechbill of the Royals and junior Anthony Marziala for the Silverwolves. Marziala and closer junior Kobe Nance limited the Royals to one hit in the game. Fremont started the scoring in the first inning with senior catcher Bodee Goins’ base hit scoring Logan Penland. Also scoring first-inning runs for the Silverwolves was senior Calvin Morrow, Goins, and senior Peyton Surrage. The Silverwolves took a quick 4-0 lead after the first inning.
Marziala struck out the side in the second inning and finished the game with ten strikeouts in four innings pitched. Royals pitcher Brechbill pitched two innings, gave up two earned runs, and had one strikeout. The Silverwolve’s lone score in the second inning came on a Brechbill wild pitch scoring senior Tygan Taylor.
Innings three through five
Marziala continued his dominant pitching by striking out the side in the third inning. Royals junior pitcher C.J. Tingey entered the game in the bottom of the third inning. Silverwolves junior outfielder Brigg Grange tripled on a deep drive over the Royals centerfielder’s head. Grange then scored on a sharp hit single by junior Garet Jones. Also scoring in the inning for the Silverwolves were junior Karston Jamison, Taylor, and Morrow. After the third inning, Fremont held a comfortable 9-0 lead.
The Royals could not score in the next two innings as Marziala stayed strong, and Nance closed the game with two strikeouts.
What they said
“Having bragging rights to beat these guys two years in a row,” said Grange. “It’s awesome and feels pretty good.”
“I was really pumped up and excited to start this game, said Brechbill. “I have a lot of family that has served in the military, and it definitely held a special spot in my heart.” Brechbill shares the team philosophy of head coach Monty Vorwaller of play and catch and put the ball in play. The Royal’s team goals are still within reach as the season is just beginning. “Have a winning record and win the region,” said Vorwaller. “Get a home playoff series and make it to the final eight at Brigham Young University.”
“It feels amazing to play in this game, said Royals senior Wyatt Kline. “I have family that serves and is currently serving and playing for them.” “Our focus now is on the next game, said Kline.
Outstanding performances
Goins had three hits and two runs batted in for the Silverwolves. Taylor, Morrow, and Grange scored two runs in the game. Marziale’s ten strikeouts were vital in the victory for the Silverwolves. Fremont has a five-game winning streak and travels to Region 1 opponent Davis Darts on Monday, April 10, 2023.
Junior shortstop Tyler Clark had the only hit and drew a walk for the Royals. Roy next plays a home game against Region 2 opponent Hunter Wolverines on Monday, April 10, 2023.
photo courtesy James Tate