Article Contributed on: 7/5/2009 11:22:56 PM
What a difference a year makes.
After going just 7-11 in 2008, this season the 13-year -ld Arvada West Rebels, using almost the identical lineup, roared to a 16-2 record, and coasted to their first Jeffco League baseball championship.
The Rebels led the league this season not only in runs scored (241), but fewest runs allowed (116). This was a true testament to all three phases of their game; hitting, pitching, and defense. All ten players contributed heavily to the highly successful campaign, which featured two shutouts, and a complete game no-hitter from pitcher Paul Elms. In one stretch, they won 11 consecutive contests, opening an insurmountable lead in league play.
After the victory against Ralston Valley that clinched the league championship, things got a bit messy, as the players and coaches popped the corks on bottles of sparkling cider to celebrate their outstanding season.
The Rebels will now try to make some noise at the state finals, being held this weekend in Greeley. No matter what happens there, this has been a season to remember for ten terrific kids, their parents,and their coaches.