After having played 9 games in 6 days, Decos EHS returned to Amsterdam Airport on Sunday evening. We returned as a better team then we were before and very proud. Decos EHS finished as the best team form Europe with a 5 and 3 record going into the play off round. We were only beaten by the top three teams (Japan, USA and Venezuela) and beat Czech Republic, Denmark, Tenerife, Zaragoza and Prague Stars. The additions that we had to our roster (Gillis, Groves, Welsh, Cameron, Hale and Prochazka) fit very well in the team. Not only as players but also (and maybe more important) as persons.

 

Mike Groves - Mike you're a friend forever and a class act. We've got to know you as a person with a big heart who loves the game very much. Thanks for coming on board my friend. It was a real pleasure finally meeting you and I'm pretty sure we'll meet again soon.

 

Doug "Mr Doug-y-style" Gillis - Doug you're a real pro and you've brought a lot of experience to the team. Although you were injured, you persisted to pitch and didn't give up. Softball USA should pay you more respect for what you've done for the game and I'm sure you'll surprise a lot of people in the coming years. We'll see each other next year at the ISC my friend!

 

Jared "Sparky" Welsh - Sparky you've showed us what talent you have at your age. I'm sure you'll make the Black Sox team in a few years. Work hard my friend. Sparky had his best European so far and was always ready to go. You were a great teammate and added a great "spark" to the team on and off the field.

 

Michael Cameron - Mike brought the necessary speed and hits to the team. Mike had a tournament record 6 stolen bases and batted .381. Mike you'll be in your brothers footsteps soon, I'm sure. Like the other kiwi's, you not only brought something extra on the field but also off the field. I still wanna see your Haka though ;o)

 

Bernard Hale - Like the other Kiwi players, Bernie was great on and off the field. A great batter already my friend and I'm sure you'll be a Black Sox in the coming years aswell. Your smile was contagious and you're a great teammate always being there for the other guys.

 

Matyas "Czechie" Prochazka - Matyas is one of the most underestimated players in Europe. He had his 15 minutes of fame hitting a HR against the Czech Rep National Team in front of a full stadium. It was only right to have you pick up the trophy for Decos EHS at the ceremony. Matty, you're a great guy and I'm sure Martin Brummel (Czech Rep Manager) regrets not having had you on the Czech roster. I guess you're enemy of the state now!

 

To all the boys who we've invited to play for us. You're Bulldogs forever now and you're always welcome to come over and play for us or hang out with the team.

 

All the regular players of Decos EHS showed the softball community that we're the best team in Europe and we've got the respect we deserve. Be proud!!