-Gregg Foster reporting
The Avalanche won a hotly contested game last Wednesday over the Bruins to win the Division 1 Championship. The Avalanche outhit the Bruins 20-16 in a game mostly dominated by excellent defense from both teams. The Avalanche defense was able to get a quick 3-up, 3-down in the top of the 7th to hold on to an 8-7 victory. Hank Culley (two doubles) and Don Barnes (a double and a game winning single) were the leading batters. The Avalanche also won another close one in the preceding semi-final game. In this game the Avalanche defeated the Wings 10 to 9. Again, key defensive plays were a key element to gaining this win. Hank Culley (2-run over the fence home run) and Dave Mamuscia (a triple and a single that produced two more runs) were the leading batters.
“We’re fortunate to combine good defense with timely hitting.” Avalanche manager, Gregg Foster said, “The one-run victories in both of these games showed just how talented the players are in this league. My hat is off the Mike Arseneau (manager of the Wings) and Rod Severson (manager of the Bruins) for putting together such competitive teams. It makes winning all the more enjoyable when you know that you have won against very good opponents.”
Front Row: Mark Hildebrand, Bob Thomas, Steve George, Dave Mamuscia and Bill Cini
Back Row: Gary Grodzicki, Mark Werner, Don Barnes, Gregg Foster, Hank Culley and Paul Duda