MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII -- Marines and sailors with the 3rd Marine Regiment #2 and Combat Logistics Battalion 3 softball teams faced off in a neck-and-neck match at Annex Field, Aug. 19, 2013. Both teams were extremely competitive, and by the end of the game the dust settled with 3rd Marines standing victorious with a final score of 11-10.
Combat Logistics Battalion 3 was first to bat, and landed on the scoreboard early after loading the bases due to players being walked. Before changing positions on the field, CLB-3 scored five runs. However, 3rd Marines returned fire with five runs of their own to even the score 5-5 at the end of the first inning.
As both teams switched between offensive and defensive positions, they joked with each other through witty banter and sarcasm. Although their competitiveness was intense, both teams enjoyed the game.
“Plain and simple, we just like to have a good time when we play,” said Clay Patterson, a batter for CLB-3.
“We’ve established a good Esprit de Corps, and that’s essentially what it’s all about.”
Almost everyone on both teams was knowledgeable in the sport, and was able to offer advice when they needed to change their strategy against their opponent.
“I coached an intramural softball team when I was with my old unit and I wanted to give these guys the same opportunity,” said Daniel Moore, captain of 3rd Marines #2. “We’re focused on having fun and being competitive, but it’s ultimately just a good way to unwind after a long workday.”
During the third inning, CLB-3 players got a good swing and managed to score three runs to take the lead over 3rd Marines #2.
“Everyone out here loves the game and loves to play,” said Valerie Deleon, captain of CLB-3. “It’s not a hard game to learn how to play and once you get the hang of it you don’t want to stop.”
For the rest of the game, CLB-3 managed to maintain their lead over 3rd Marines #2. But during the final inning, 3rd Marines #2 got four players across home plate to win the game.
“We made a few good plays, hit the ball hard and got a little lucky there at the end,” Moore said. “Softball is more of a gentleman’s game, so we just try to have fun. Besides, that’s what it’s all about.”
The 3rd Marines #2 team will not participate in the upcoming softball tournament due to 3rd Marines’ participation in the Infantry Training Exercise at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif.