Just a reminder as we begin the winter dull drums of no fastball....    The Erie PA Ed McCormick tournament will take place BETWEEN the ASA National and ISC World tournament (first weekend of August).   

 

Due to the unusual nature of the 2015 season, of National teams, Pan Am games, ISF Worlds, etc. it is hoped many of the top teams will use Erie as one of the tournaments used to help prepare everyone for the ISC World, which is the goal of all the top teams. 

 

Since taking over and restarting the Erie tournament.  a few years ago, I've tried to mend some fences that were broken years ago when the tournament was held on a different weekend by different people.   There are some that have accepted it and me as irresponsible for things that happened in yesteryear, when I wasn't involved.   And there are others who still hold a grudge.  

 

I know Erie is not Kimberly WI.   It's not Midland MI.   We don't have the world's best facilities but, I do my best to make it a quality event for the teams that come.  

 

The 2015 tournament will feature a $4,000 first prize, winner take all.    That is one of the highest paying tournaments in North America.    I will work with the teams to avoid needing 2 nights hotel when possible, which will help defray those costs as well.    $4K first prize, with quality ISC umpires, close distance to the majority of teams (especially Ontario).... I hope will re-surge the tournament to what it was when I first started it.    

 

The first 8 teams to send their entry fee will be the 8 teams guaranteed a spot.  

 

It's my hope Jay Hart will be UIC again,  Al Doran will be around to provide the immediate updates, and with luck,  we will have games broadcast if possible.  

 

This tournament is made possible by Erie sports chapter and ASA of PA state Hall of Famer Ed McCormick and Erie Beer (local distributors for Bud, Bud Light, Labatt, etc.)  

 

Bill Hillhouse

<houseofpitching (at) yahoo.com>