Is a two game shut out a record? In the world of Campbell Bocce League it sure is. Last Friday, Game 1 and Game 3 went 12-0 for two very stunned teams, Cozzie and the Hot Rollers and Deboccery each decisively defeated by Labor Force and The Rolling Stones respectively.  So shocking and quickly played were both games, the evening’s play concluded by 8:00 pm, when Game 3  is normally just kicking off. So who were the players that earned the Big 0? The Hot Rollers with Captain Carla along with Bobby and substitutes JC and Matt. And Deboccery led by Conor with Kay, Cris and substitute Taylor assisting.

Have we ever before had a game end with a goose egg? Perusing the dusty tomes of Campbell Bocce League history, it appears that in over 100 games played on our dead flat oyster court, a shut out has occurred just twice previously.

Who were these former teams and players who hit rock bottom? How did they deal with the dreaded naught, the zilch, the scratch, the nullity,  the oblivion of zero? Read and learn all you who intend to avoid repeating this tragic history.

In the first season of CBL, our fourth game was a classic match between that year’s dominant team The Woodies led by Captain Jim Woodcock against our very first Captain, Courageous award recipient  John Costa and his La Famiglia. The Woodies after defeating La Famiglia in the most decisive manner possible went on to win the league championship that inaugural year. La Famiglia’s Carla, Mo and Barb rallied behind John after that devastating night but lost once again in the final season game to conclude the  season 2-3 in fifth place. The rally was revived when they won their critical playoff match against the Workers  and avoided the dreaded Wooden Spoon.

Two years later in 2014, our playoffs featured another Wooden Spoon match. This time the  teams were Ru’s Garden of Earthly Delights with Captain Rupert and his delights,  Kris Costa, Carla and Susie. They faced off against Captain Lynne of the Bollabridgidas along with her teammates Chris Coates, Jim Leon (subbing for Barb) and Leslie. In a quick and decisive victory, the Bollabridgidas smashed Ru’s GEDs 12-0 resulting in a second consecutive Wooden Spoon for Susie.

A record to be sure but certainly one no-one wants to repeat; And certainly not twice in one night. Lets hope this coming Friday is a showcase of our usual competitive back and forth, the one or two points per frame battles to which  we’ve grown accustomed. Remember our fifth and final regular season game is this Friday. The teams in the top four places all will have an equal chance at winning the Championship while places 5th and 6th will have their final battle at the Playoffs for the Wooden Spoon.  This year with three teams having the same 2-2 win loss record, Friday’s will results will be absolutely critical.

NOTE: The Playoffs are scheduled for August 11, just one week after our fifth and final  game.

Results from Game 4

Labor Force 12 – Cozzie and the Hot Rollers 0

Holy Rollers 12- Game of Throwns 4

The Rolling Stones 12- Deboccery 0

Standings

 

This Friday’s theme is Asian Luau, please let me know what you can bring and I will post. At 6:30 the first match kicks off between Game of Throwns and Cozzie and the Hot Rollers.

• Eggrolls- Kelly & Travis
• Potstickers- Clay & Carol
• Maui Onion Chips & dip- June & Rich
• Asian Ribs- Chris & Jack
• Teriyaki Chicken- Chris & Jack
• Fried Rice- Gail & Lori
• Tropical Fruit Salad- Deborah
• Asian Salad- Leslie
• Coconut cupcakes- need volunteer
• Asian Beer- need volunteer
• Wine- Gail & Lori
• Pina Coladas- Chris & Jack

Yes folks it was a holy guacamole night and for the very first time in Campbell Bocce League’s history we didn’t run out of the essential guacamole before the tacos were ready. It was a terrific night for everyone who attended, fabulous tacos , Garcia’s homemade beans and rice, killer Margaritas, Marc Antony & The Gypsy Kings blaring and great bocce.

So with very little fanfare and being short on time and energy this week. The results from Round 3 were:

The Rolling Stones 12- Game of Throwns 10

Labor Force 12 – Holy Rollers 9

Cozzie and The Hot Rollers 13 – Deboccery 8

But before I get to the current Standings, I have to admit to a serious mistake. Due to a transcription error, I incorrectly reported the results from Round 2 between the Rolling Stones and Cozzie and The Hot Rollers. The game was actually won by Cozzie and the Hot Rollers 12-8, not the reverse as I reported and this of course effects the standings. So after Round Three we now have Game Of Throwns in first place and amazingly three teams exactly tied for second, The Rolling Stones, Holy Rollers and Cozzie and the Hot Rollers. Labor Force has moved up from the basement after defeating the Holy Rollers in Round 3. Deboccery is improving with each Round, so be on the lookout this Friday for their first win when they play the Rolling Stones in the night’s opening match.

 

Our Round 4 dinner theme will be Mediterranean Nights. First game is at 6:30 between last place Deboccery and second place The Rolling Stones.

• Veggies with Tzatziki- Barb & Matt
• Hummus & Pita chips – Cris & Michelle
• Olives, Pepperoncini, Artichoke hearts, stuffed Grape leaves- Deborah
• Shish kebobs- Chris
• Arugula & fig salad- Chris
• Tomato, Cucumber, Red Onion and Feta salad– Cris
• Couscous  salad- Leslie
• Baklava- Jill
• Cookies-Lori
• Negronis-Chris
• Wine– need volunteer

 

Our Summer of Love theme night turned into a spectacle when Kay “Light My Fire” Missin nearly burned down the backboards. Kay was hot, hot, hot rolling a nearly perfect game with every frame. Coached by Captain Conor, Kay, with teammates,  June and Cris, holding the south end for Deboccery together took an early lead against The Holy Rollers. Second year player June Weaver rolled like an MVP destroying any scoring opportunity while  the Rollers’ Lori and Jim Woodcock turned “A Whiter Shade of Pale”. When Roller’s Captain Carol called out to the heavens for mercy, there was “Dancing in the Street” as Coates and Carl managed to bring the score even and finally win by one point. Holy Rollers 12, Deboccery 11

When the Rolling Stones took the stage facing off Cozzie and the Hot Rollers, Captain Chris was down two players, so he strategically pulled in “I’m a Man” Daniel Boone to join bandmates, Degiere and Leon. Captain Carla, along with rookie Gail and Kelly played like they were “Happy Together” but it was Rich Weaver who was “Somebody To Love” as he fielded point after point for the Cozzie’s. It was “Up, Up and Away” as Boone, Leslie, Jim and Cattich scored the Stones’ second victory this season. Rolling Stones 12, Cozzie and the Hot Rollers 8

The nights final match, was an exhibition by Barb Kutschinski of “Groovin”. With only Clay and Barb, Game of Throwns was down three players and “For What it’s Worth” wisely tapped league favorite Jim Leon as substitute. Barb, Clay and Jim couldn’t go wrong against Labor Force with Captain Ted, Jack, Rupert and “White Rabbit” killer Daniel Boone playing sub for the second time. Labor Force lost their second game of the season and really need to “Get Together” if they are aiming for the playoffs. Game of Throwns 12, Labor Force 5

Thanks to everyone and the Electric Kool-aid for a night that might be described as a “Purple Haze”. Per several requests, the evening’s 1967 Playlist follows:

Results Round 2

Holy Rollers 12, Deboccery 11

Rolling Stones 12, Cozzie and the Hot Rollers 8

Game of Throwns 12, Labor Force 5

Standings                                                                       TPS

Game of Throwns                              2-0                 26

The Rolling Stones                           2-0                 25

Holy Rollers                                         2-0                 24

Cozzie and the Hot Rollers         0-2                 16

Deboccery                                           0-2                 14

Labor Force                                         0-2                 9

Tomorrow’s theme is Mexican Fiesta. Please take a look and let me know what you can bring, so I can post.

• Chips- June & Rich
• Salsa, green, red, fire roasted- Lynne
• Guacamole- lots of guacamole! – Cris, Nate, Bobby
• Grilled Adobo Chicken- Chris
• Chipotle Flank Steak- Chris
• Tortillas , corn 6″- Clay & Carol
• Cheese, shredded or crumbled- Jill & Jamie
• Beans- Deborah
• Rice- Deborah
• Black bean corn, and tomato salad – Leslie
• Mexican fruit popsicles- Lori & Gail
• Margaritas- Chris & Jack
• Mexican Beer- Clay, Conor, Cattich, Leon

Campbell Bocce League’s first round of the season got off to a spectacular start on a windy Friday night. Popcorn, Peanuts, Red Hots and our new CBL baseball caps were all featured at Campbell Field while a rousing crowd cheered their favorites.

Just as our Champion Warriors took a dive in Cleveland, so did Captain Ted and his Labor Force to the impressive Rolling Stones. With Captain Cattich absent, ace bowler Jim Leon and Deborah Garcia were hot as dogs on the grill, with Michelle and Leslie also contributing to the Stones first win. The Labor Force with their full complement of players, Jaime, Jack, Nate and Rupert just couldn’t put a frame together and lost 13-4.

The evening’s second game was a surprisingly quick debacle for Deboccery. Yes that’s right, absent Captain Conor’s championship style, teammates Lynne, Kay and June quickly fell to the onslaught of Game of Throwns. Although Deboccery tapped all time high scorer Jim Leon as their substitute, GOT led by Captain Jill, with Rookie Travis accompanied by Clay, Moshia and Barb slaughtered Deboccery 14-3.

Holy Rollers and our newest Captain Carol Lingo with Burke, Coates & Woodcock  fought a drag out battle with Cozzie and The Hot Rollers, gaining no more than one point per frame for what seemed an eternity.  Holy Roller Jim Woodcock was back in epic form controlling angles and spin in a style that was reminiscent of his early years and multiple Championships. Carla and Rich were extremely effective for the Hot Rollers knocking Jim & Coates’ balls out of multiple scoring opportunities. At the opposite end of the court Rookie Kelly had an impressive showing for her first outing, and along with stalwart Bobby chalked up several points. Though The Holy Rollers were missing ace roller Carl and the Hot Rollers didn’t have their Rookie Gilbert,  when the dust settled the final score was Holy Rollers 12- Cozzie and the Hot Rollers 8.

Round 2 begins prompts at 6:30 with the Holy Rollers facing off against Deboccery and in recognition of that epic battle our theme will be “The Summer of Love”.

And in true 1967 fashion, we will have an authentic potluck. Please let me know what you can contribute and I will post here. Brownies anyone??

• Flower Power Hors d’oeuvres – Barb
• Digger Chicken- Chis & Jack
• Organic Mediterranean Farro Salad- Rich & Junehe shell- June & Rich
• Magic Mushroom Salad- Leslie
• “Baked” Beans -Jill & Jaime
• Wasted Watermelon- Clay
• Hot dogs & buns- Chris & Jack
• Ketchup, mustard, relish- Chris & Jack
•  sandwiches – Nate
• “Pot Lucky” Brownies – Lori
• Electric Kool-aid- Chris & Jack
• Beer or Wine- Volunteers needed

The Captains have been appointed, the teams selected and this Friday Round 1 begins promptly at 6:30. Captain Cattich and Captain Ted and their new respective teams are up first. Let’s see how these two captains who battled it out in last year’s Championship fare in the first round of the 2017 season.

First order of business- all teams must select a name. Captains please contact your team members and let me know your team name by noon on Friday. I have emailed a contact list to everyone.

The Teams are:

Captain Ted Lusher, Jamie Milliner, Jack Campbell, Nate Castillo, Rupert DePhillips

Captain Chris Cattich, Leslie deGiere, Deborah Garcia, Jim Leon, Michelle Smith

Captain Conor Pullman, June Weaver, Lynne Missin, Cris MacKenzie, Kay Missin

Captain Carla Brouillette, Bobby Corso, Gail Gilbert, Rich Weaver, Kelly Simmons

Captain Jill Milliner, Travis Simmons, Clay Lingo, Moshia Smith, Barb Kutschinski

Captain Carol Lingo, Chris Coates, Lori Burke, Carl Alderete, Jim Woodcock

Campbell Bocce League has a new rule this year, “Substitutes and the Designated Roller Rule”. The Captain may call on a single substitute to join the team only when he has less than 4 players present. A Designated Roller is a team member who at the Captain’s discretion may step in for any one of his teammates mid frame, or at the beginning of a frame. Once the DR has entered the game he remains in the game until its conclusion. The Team member he has replaced cannot rejoin the game. Additionally the Captain is responsible to make certain that every team member who is present plays no less than one full frame. The role of DR may be filled by a different team member in each round.

Friday’s theme is Take Me Out to the BallGame, the Menu is:

• Popcorn -Deborah
• Peanuts in the shell- June & Rich
• Ruffle Chips and Onion dip- Lynne & Jim
• Pretzels & Mustard – Carol
• Celery sticks and Blue Cheese dip – Leslie
• Hot dogs & buns- Chris & Jack
• Ketchup, mustard, relish- Chris & Jack
• Toppings, Onions, sauerkraut, hot peppers, grated cheddar –  Rupert, Jill
• Chili – Travis & Kelly
• Old Fashioned Coleslaw – Clay
• Potato salad – Michelle & Mo
• Ice Cream sandwiches – Nate
• Cracker Jacks – Cris
• Adult Lemonade-Chris & Jack
• Beer – Leslie, Lynne & Jim, Nate

Please let me know what you can contribute and I will post. See you Friday!

CHAMPIONSHIP & AWARDS

Once again another Bocce season has come to a close. This has been a milestone year, as we celebrated our five -year anniversary. Players have come and gone, captains and teams change from year to year but still the spirit remains. Good Food, Good Fun and Great Bocce.

This year Clay Lingo a CBL regular for the past 4 seasons returned just in time from “combat duty” to serve as a much needed substitute. We were also joined by two new players June & Rich Weaver who both learned the game quickly with Rich even making the Championships.

We have had a great season of competition, exciting games and wonderful meals, a combination that makes for an outstanding league, the one and only Campbell Bocce League.

Tonight’s Championship match was as exciting as they come…. But before we get to that game and announce this year’s Champion, it is time to acknowledge certain players with some very special awards.

TOP SCORING SUB

Formerly part of the regular roster, this substitute attended every game and was at the ready whenever called. He admirably filed the role of missing players for several teams this year and was instrumental in helping our two “Ball” teams, Ball Breakers and Balls Deep reach the Championship. In appreciation and acknowledgement of his contribution, Clay Lingo is awarded CBL Top Scoring Substitute.

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

Our Rookies don’t have the advantage of a few seasons in a minor league before stepping onto the Campbell Court. It can be a brutal experience leaving them bewildered by the rules, strategy and skills displayed by veteran players. In a few short games this rookie displayed ball skills and an innate understanding of strategy that helped bring his team by season’s end to a Championship berth. Truly a remarkable year, and the Campbell Bocce League is pleased to award Rookie of the Year to Rich Weaver.

MVP

Our most valuable player has most typically been a seasoned veteran with an excellent skill set. This season our MVP not only demonstrated outstanding Bocce skills, more importantly he was an invaluable asset to both his team and the league when he filled in as substitute for several teams in multiple rounds, with all the Captains clamoring for his help. Strong, steady and deadly accurate, I don’t think anyone will be surprised to learn Jim Leon is Campbell Bocce League’s 2016 Most Valuable Player.

O CAPTAIN, MY CAPTAIN

Captains play an important role in CBL. They have significant responsibility to organize their players, to direct strategy and promote teamwork while the game is in progress. It is a position that indicates honor and respect from one’s teammates and recognition as a leader by one’s peers. O Captain, My Captain is one of the most recognized works by poet Walt Whitman and honors the accomplishments of his Captain while lamenting his loss in battle. Though not every Captain can take home The Teddy after winning the Championship, we still wish to call attention and say thank you to a Captain who exemplifies the sport of Bocce and the spirit of Campbell Bocce League. As a player her first three seasons produced two unremarkable fifth place finishes and one dead last Wooden Spoon. Since becoming a Captain she led her team to both a championship berth last year, and a respectable fourth place finish this year. Carla for all your accomplishments you are recognized and awarded the League’s O Captain My Captain trophy.

25 GAME PIN

After 5 years we have hosted 25 regular season games, plus playoffs and Championships. Our five year anniversary is the time to say thank you to everyone who through their participation contributes to making this league a success. For consistent participation as both a regular and a substitute we are awarding the 25 game pin to:

Chris Coates                                    Rupert DePhillips                        Bobby Corso

Jack Campbell                                 Chris Cattich                                 Carla Brouillette

Leslie Degiere                                  Jim Leon                                         Conor Pullman

Clay Lingo                                         Ted Lusher

MAN OF THE LEAGUE

This is a very special award to recognize both outstanding skill and personal contribution to the league. It is a pleasure to have an individual who combines exceptional talent with service to the League. Throwing or rolling the ball with precision, harassing all players with pointed comments, confusing the scorekeeper with his yell of “4 points, 4 points”. He has been with us for every game insuring that the Campbell Grounds are if not perfectly level, are at least artfully decorated. And this year he put both his wallet and his back into creating an exceptional venue comparable to none. Please raise a glass in recognition and in honor of Man of The League- Jack Campbell

THE WOODEN SPOON

It hardly seems fair that this year’s last place team is receiving the Wooden Spoon. They played some outstanding games and with only a single exception early in the season, lost each subsequent game by a only a small margin. And more surprisingly they were led by our two-time League Champion Captain Conor Pullman. Captain Conor, Lori Burke, Deborah Garcia and Carl Alderete please come forward to accept your Wooden Spoons.

THIRD PLACE GAME

Captain Carla with her Cozzie and the Hot Rollers down two regular players, relied on substitutes Conor Pullman and a welcome Kay Missin. The Hot Rollers got off to a very slow start against Game of Throwns with Clay Lingo filling in for GOT’s missing Captain Jill Milliner. With Carol Lingo rolling with what can only be called magic fingers, very quickly GOT was poised to shutout Cozzie. Yet as determined as always Carla and her north end partner Moshia Smith battled back scratching a few chalk lines on the scoreboard. Not to be outdone by his Mom, Clay and partner Rupert answered that challenge bring GOT within one point of closing. Finally once again Magic Fingers Carol rolled the winning ball, leaving partner Chris only to drop a couple balls at her feet. Game of Throwns winds up the season in third place winning 12-3 over fourth place Cozzie and the Hot Rollers.

THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

Wow, what a game!

Balls Deep has the led the league the entire season, losing only once in the fourth round. They looked to be the easy favorites for taking home the Teddy this year.

Very impressive however has been the performance of Ball Breakers led by Captain Chris Cattich. The BB’s Rich Weaver, Lynne Missin and Michelle Smith were in dead last place after losing their first two games of the year. Relying heavily on substitutes, Captain Chris strategically led the Ball Breakers to win after win, earning first a playoff opportunity and then a Championship berth.

So, the game began quickly with Jim Leon and Captain Ted of Balls Deep and Captain Chris with Lynne of Ball Breakers dug in at the south end trading rolls and challenges. The north side was anchored by the Michelle and Rich of BB, and Balls Deep’s indomitable Jack and Leslie.

Balls Deep was in trouble early when Ball Breakers took an early and commanding lead 9-3. The much anticipated Championship match looked primed to be a washout, potentially ending much too soon (the steaks weren’t ready!) but then the Bocce gods descended, as did the famous Campbell Court topography and Balls Deep started their march to victory. Unstoppable they claimed point after point, with captain Teddy beginning to grin in anticipation of taking home his eponymous trophy. Finally Ball Breakers succumbed, allowing Ball Deep to win a place in Campbell Bocce league history with a final score 12-10.

Congratulations to Campbell Bocce League’s 2016 Champions!

Balls Deep Captain Ted Lusher, Jim Leon, Leslie Degiere and Jack Campbell

Distressful, disruptive and dramatic, Friday’s playoffs were anything but dull.

Distressful watching Captain Connor Pullman, our two-time league champion and his current roster of Erin Go Bocce get soundly defeated by Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters 12-8. Pullman will be joined by teammates Burke, Alderete and Garcia at the awards ceremony on September 2, as they climb the podium to accept the ignominious Wooden Spoon. Meanwhile Captain Barb and the rest of the BBB’s Nate, June and Bobby will watch in relief as their season ends saved by just 4 points.

Disruptive Ball Breakers led by Captain Chris Cattich jumped into the upcoming Championship match by destroying the hopes and plans of Captain Carla and the Hot Rollers 12-8.

What a ride the Ball Breakers have had this season. In last place after Round 2 with an absolutely dismal TPS of 9, Chris, Rich, Lynne and Michelle battled back winning every subsequent game to earn a playoff berth against number 2, Cozzie and The Hot Rollers. The last time these two teams faced off the Ball Breakers suffered a devastating loss 12 – 4. But this time was different, aided by substitutes Clay Lingo and Captain Conor, who perhaps stung by his mediocre performance earlier in the evening, showed the true brilliance of a two-time Campbell Bocce League Champion, assisting in the decisive victory.

Meanwhile, Carla also down two regulars, Moshia and Woodcock relied heavily on the skills of substitutes Nate and Clay. With one regular player Jamie Milliner, 2015’s Rookie of the Year, the quad rolled deep and long but couldn’t keep pace with Cattich’s Ball Breakers. Heartbreaking for Captain Carla who for the second year running as a new Captain has managed to get her teams so close to a championship.

Drama was the watchword of our final playoff game Friday. Captain Ted’s Balls Deep started strong with DeGiere and Campbell living up to expectations and hype nearly destroying Captain Jill’s Game of Throwns, with Chris, Carol and Rupert. At 8 points down and nothing on the board, GOT Captain Jill exclaimed “they’re f***ing shutting us out”! Finally Jill and Rupert chalked two points followed by an emotional four point casino rolled by Chris & Carol and closely examined by Balls Deep’s Leslie. Now only 4 points down GOT turned the pollina over to Ted and Jim Leon. With perfect accuracy and speed Ted and Jim pulled off the evenings second casino, ending the frame with an additional 4 points, winning the game 12-6 and launching Balls Deep into the 2016 Championship.

So Friday, September 2 it will be a pair of balls, Balls Deep and Ball Breakers rolling for the CBL 2016 League Champion.

The night will begin with Cozzie & The Hot Rollers playing Game of Throwns for 3rd and 4th place. This swan song for both teams will commence during Cocktails and Appetizers at 6:30pm. Then we will light the BBQ and thrown on the Ribeyes. We will keep an eye on the steaks and enjoy the rare opportunity to see two great teams Balls Deep and Ball Breakers battle for the right to clam the Teddy and have their names emblazoned on the Campbell Bocce League perpetual trophy.

RSVP to Chris 415.893.0153 or cmcoates@aol.com

Results Playoffs

Barbs Bocce Ball Busters 12, Erin Go Bocce 8

Ball Busters12, Cozzie & The Hot Rollers 8

Balls Deep 12, Game of Throwns 6

Menu “High Steaks”

• Ribeyes – Jack & Chris
• Twice Baked Potatoes – Deb & Chris
• Classic Green Salad- Carol
  
• Tomatoes with Basil – Lynne
• Cheese Plate  – Bobby
• Salami & Olives –Lori
• Chocolate Cupcakes– Leslie
• Champagne –June & Rich
• Red Wine – need volunteer

 

The key to a Balls Deep championship. The big-game difference maker. Rollers you can build a playoff around.

Don’t look now, but is it possible that the force of September has been under the Captain Ted’s nose all along?

“Right now the way Jack & Leslie are rolling, their stuff plays anywhere,” Balls Deep Captain Ted Lusher said of Jack Campbell & Leslie de Giere, the so-called old timer and stalwart who might be rolling better than anyone in bocce right now.

Pairing that performance with the consistent play of Jim Leon, Captain Ted has brought his team to first place. Ted praising Leon stated, “His stuff is unbelievable. It’s always been unbelievable. Now he’s just really putting it where he wants, and it’s fun to play behind him.”

With Friday’s dazzling performance in a 12-9 victory over Erin Go Bocce, Balls Deep earned their fourth victory in five decisions and essentially retained their league lead by one point in TPS over Cozzie and the Hot Rollers.

With the Playoffs looming, Captain Carla and Hot Rollers Jamie & Woodcock shanghaied this years leading candidate for MVP, Jim Leon as substitute for Moshia in Friday’s face off against Game of Throwns.

The season’s slowest match dragged on in single point frames. DePhillips controlled his end for GOT stating afterwards . “It’s just about simple thoughts and placing balls.” It’s also about command and confidence that seem to get better with every start and a slow ball that looks as accurate as anything Leon rolls.

“We fell behind Cozzie 12-7, and I said, There it goes” Captain Jill said with a laugh. No matter, GOT is ending regular season with a 2-3 record and retains a playoff berth.

With a 3-2 standing after defeating Barbs BB Busters 12-6, Ball Breakers moved up to third place. “It’s a good stat I guess, to have going into the playoffs, but I’m not focused on that,” said Captain Cattich, who tapped Clay Lingo as the night’s substitute for the vacationing Michelle Smith. “When you’re rolling like this you just try to stay in that same mindset,” he said, “and keep doing your same work.” Rookie Weaver and veteran Lynne were essential to the win, “Rich’s known how to roll since he’s come to the league, and you just see his confidence getting higher and higher”.

A win loss record of 1-4 doesn’t tell the heartbreaking story of EGB’s season. Speculation then was two-time Champion Captain Conor Pullman was poised to deliver the League first hat trick with a strong veteran lineup joined by crossover bowler Lori Burke debuting in her rookie year.

Though nearly defeating both first and second ranked Balls Deep and Cozzie & the Hot Rollers, each and every EGB game was just a near miss. Their season TPS of 45  matching third place Ball Breakers neatly tells the story. Just two weeks ago EGB veterans Carl & Deborah stunned the League with spectacular throws we haven’t seen in years. Reviewing his team’s performance, Conor stated “No one promises you anything, it all has to be earned, and this year we just didn’t deliver”.

Captain, O My Captain award winner Kutschinski was hampered by no-shows in her line up. Barb’s BB Busters started the season remarkably strong, defeating second place Cozzie and The Hot Rollers in Round 1 for their only win, and what was anticipated to be a strongly competitive year. Corso, and Castillo never quite got their mojo, though rookie June Weaver showed steady improvement in both technique and strategy. Captain Barb ever kind and gracious, ended Friday’s night game declaring “ no matter the outcome, it is not just a game, its friendship, and when the game is forgotten the friendship endures”.

Entering the Playoffs, there has been just one change in the previous standings. Ball Breakers moves up one place to Third.

Playoffs begin Friday August 19^th at 6:30 pm with the Wooden Spoon match between Erin Go Bocce and Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters. Then second place Cozzie and the Hot Rollers plays third place Ball Breakers. The nights final game is first place Balls Deep playing Game of Throwns. The winners of Game 2 & 3 advance to the Championship.

The top four teams all have an equal chance at becoming the 2016 Champions.

Results Round 4

Cozzie and the Hot Rollers 12, Game of Throwns 7

Balls Deep 12, Erin Go Bocce 9

Ball Breakers 12, Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters 5

Standings                                                                       TPS

Balls Deep                                                 4-1                 57

Cozzie and the Hot Rollers             4-1                 56

Ball Breakers                                          3-2                 45

Game of Throwns                                 2-3                 45

Erin Go Bocce                                         1-3                 44

Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters                1-3                 29

 

The playoff dinner theme will be Southern BBQ. Let me know what you can bring, and I will get it posted.

• Pickled Veggies- Chris
• Pimento Cheese & Crackers– need volunteer
• Southern BBQ Chicken- Chris
• Mac & Cheese- need volunteer
• Coleslaw- Clay
• Corn on the Cob- Lori
• Cornbread-Carol
• Watermelon- June & Rich
• Red Velvet cupcakes-Jill & Jaime
• Alabama Slammer-Chris
• Wine- need volunteer
• Beer- need volunteer

Well the apple cart wasn’t upset, but  Carla and her Hot Rollers managed to steal a few shiny ones when they bruised the perfect record of Balls Deep last night. Captain Ted of BD was ably replaced by Clay Lingo who joined, Jack, Leslie and ace Jim Leon for a closely fought game against Captain Carla, Moshia, Jamie and Jim Woodcock. Woodcock and Moshia rolled some beautifully placed balls, managing to score and strategically block any opposition. Jack and Jim Leon attacked strongly for Balls Deep, but when the game ended it was still Cozzie & the Hot Rollers 12, Balls Deep 9.

Game of Throwns with captain Jill and Rupert anchoring the south end , got off to fast start against Captain Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters. BBB players Bobby and Nate by the second frame  were able to hold Jill & Rupert,  and with some unbelievable rolls by captain Barb and teammate June, the 3B’s quickly brought the score to near even 8-7. Finally Chris & Carol working the north end for GOT found their pace and chalked a few on the scoreboard. Final tally-Game of Throwns 12, Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters 7

Luck finally turned for Captain Chris Cattich and the Ball Breakers in the nights final game. Perhaps it was  the newly learned antipodean skills of Taylor Missin subbing for her Mom, or the impressive play of rookie Rich or even the brilliance of former 2014 Champions Michelle and Captain Chris but all in all, it was the night’s biggest upset. Erin Go Bocce moved down two places in League standings despite some of the most aggressive, inspirational and down right amazing  bocce rolls we have seen in our 5 years of history. No one who missed the pool shark accuracy of Carl Alderete will forget the night’s bank shots, stops shots or caroms. With Erin Go Bocce teammate Deborah rolling the ball like rolling on silk stockings, the two looked to be invincible. Yet somehow it  was not their night, eventually Captain Conor ably supported by Lori conceded defeat for their third time this year. At the conclusion of Round 4, Game 3,  it was Balls Deep 12 -Erin Go Bocce 8

With one round left in regular season play, its important to remember the top four teams will all have an equal chance at becoming the 2016 Champions. When the Win- Loss record is tied, placement is determined by Total Points Scored (TPS). Current standings with TPS are posted below.

Results Round 4

Cozzie and the Hot Rollers 12, Ball Deep 9

Game of Throwns 13, Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters 7

Ball Busters 12, Erin Go Bocce 8

Standings                                                                       TPS

Balls Deep                                                 3-1                 45

Cozzie and the Hot Rollers             3-1                 44

Game of Throwns                                2-2                 38

Ball Breakers                                          2-2                 33

Erin Go Bocce                                         1-3                 35

Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters                1-3                 24

 

Our Round 5 dinner theme will be Mediterranean Nights. First game is at 6:30 between third ranked Game of Throwns and second place Cozzie and the Hot Rollers.

• Veggies with Tzatziki- Lori
• Hummus & Pita chips – Lynne & Jim
• Olives, Pepperoncini, Artichoke hearts, stuffed Grape leaves- Deborah
• Shish kebobs- Chris
• Arugula & fig salad- Chris
• Tomato, Cucumber, Red Onion and Feta salad- Carol & Clay
• couscous or Orzo salad- Leslie
• Baklava-need volunteer
• Negronis-Chris
• Wine- June & Rich

Remember when CBL games were a thrill a minute- hotly contested, no holds barred sporting competitions? Well Mis Amigos, last night’s third game in round three, between Cozzie & the Hot Rollers and Erin Go Bocce, was all that and more. With the night’s theme Mexican Fiesta and Ricky Martin blaring “Living in La Vida Loca”, the playing was hot, hot, hot!

The night opened cool and windy, with the first game between Cattich’s Ball Breakers and Jill and her Game of Throwns’ teammates, Carol, Rupert and Chris Coates. A quick 4 point lead by GOT was quickly shattered by Rich and Michelle (playing in her fist game of the season) with Captain Chris Cattich and his wisely chosen substitute Jim Leon (for Lynne Missin).  Rich and Michelle at the north end were consistent, shutting down Chris & Captain Jill to only a couple points after their early lead. Ru and Carol were hard pressed against the accuracy of partners Jim & Chris and just managed to close the BB lead slightly.  In the end, GOT succumbed with a  final score Ball Breakers 12- Game of Throwns 7

Ted and his Balls Deep teammates, Jack,  Jim Leon and Clay (subbing for Leslie) quickly took the court and faced off against Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters for game two. Barb and June ably manned the north end, while Bobby with the lovely Jessica ( Cattich’s plus one and first time sub) held the scoreboard end for 4B. June and Barb together had some truly inspired frames while Jessica and Bobby also earned their share of points, but it seemed Jack, Ted, Jim and Clay were channeling Shakira’s “Baby, This is perfection” as point after point was chalked on the board. The Balls Don’t Lie, final score Balls Deep 12- Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters 4

Game three was the night’s premier performance, a Lucha Libre without the masks and skintight outfits. The drama of the point by point battle was watched by all of CBL with Jamie’s volo tosses and Carl’s deadly accuracy offering some of the evenings highlights. Captain Carla, Mo and Jamie were ably assisted by Chris Cattich as he filled in for the missing Jim Woodcock. Not easily deterred Conor’s Erin Go Bocce teammates Deborah, Lori  and Carl played tag team, posting point after point. Of course never one to lay down, Captain Carla drove her team hard and unmasked Erin Go Bocce 12-9.

Interesting enough the evenings wins and losses did not result in any changes in the overall standings. There are two rounds to go and with 4 teams with matching  win-loss records, anything is possible.

Results Round 3

Ball Breakers 12, Game of Throwns 7

Balls Deep 12, Barb’s Bocce Ball Busters 4

Cozzie and the Hot Rollers 12, Erin Go Bocce 9

Standings

Balls Deep                                               3-0

Cozzie and the HotRollers             2-1

Erin Go Bocce                                       1-2

Game of Throwns                               1-2

Barbs Bocce Ball Busters                1-2

Ball Breakers                                          1-2

Our Round 4 dinner theme will be Take Me Out to the Ballgame. First game is at 6:30 between second ranked Cozzie and The Hot Rollers and first place Balls Deep. This could be a hot one folks!

 

• Popcorn- Lori
• Peanuts in the shell-Lynne & Jim
• Ruffle Chips and Onion dip-Carla
• Nachos- Michelle
• Hot dogs & buns- Chris
• Ketchup, mustard, relish- Chris
• Toppings, Onions, sauerkraut, hot peppers, grated cheddar-Jill & Jamie
• Chili-Deborah
• Old Fashioned Coleslaw-June & Rich
• Potato salad-Leslie 
• Ice Cream sandwiches-Carol Lingo
• Adult Lemonade-Chris
• Beer-need volunteer