Clearfield Bison Baseball First Annual Alumni Game (2005)

“The older I get the better I was!”

The Bison Baseball Alumni game turned out to be a great success! Registration for the event began at 12:30 with alumni committee Chairman Donnie Shimmel (’84) distributing shirts and hats for the players. Before the first game began all participants gathered in front of home plate for a group photo taken by Logan Cramer (81). After welcoming remarks by announcer Pat Pallo (’86), everyone was treated to an excellent rendition of the National Anthem by Megan Liptak, granddaughter of Jack Morris.

The Old-timers game began with Merrill Dunlap (’57) throwing out the first pitch.(he also played second base the entire game!). With Butch Martell(’64) on the mound, the Black Team started out strong. However, due to some shoddy defensive play, the Red Team exploded for 5 runs in the second inning and never looked back. Final score: Red 21 – Black 6. Firepower for the Reds was provided by several different players. MVP Scott Dunlap(’81) blasted a homerun and single, while Andy Lingle(’85) added a double and two singles. Bob Marsh(’81) launched a long homer and Logan Cramer(’81) ripped a double. Other Red Teamers with multiple hits were Tom Flanagan(’78), Dave Falvo(’82), Dennis Bowman(’86), Dave Learish(’88), and Tom Danver(’82). ’67 grad. Anthony Biviano caught the whole game and received the Gold Glove Award.

The Black Team had its moments also. Twin Brothers Keith and Ken Billotte(’64) each had a double, as did Todd Vanderburgh(’84). Jeff Norris(’76) scored two runs and roamed centerfield. Catcher Jim Moyer(’78) was awarded the MVP while outfielder, Matt Thomas got the Gold Glove for the Black team.

The “Youngsters” game proved to be more competitive. The Black Team, coached by Brian Barr(’91) took an early lead with Gary Welker(’94) on the mound. However the Red Team, under the leadership of Todd Stiner(’90) made a furious comeback with a five run rally in the last inning to win 8-6. Buzz Moore(’99) was 4 for 4 and named MVP, while Coach Stiner had a double and single scoring two runs. Brandon Billotte(’98) smacked a homerun and single. Other Red Teamers with multiple hits were Adam Welker(’95), Frank Hipps,Jr.(’90), and Dr. Jasen Rowles(’92). Catcher Damion Reinke did a great job behind the dish and was awarded the Gold Glove. For the Black Team Kevin Billotte(’94) blasted a long double, Coach Barr added two singles and Gary Welker and Steve Terry(’89) each sent one way out of the park. Welker was given the Black MVP while Terry got the Gold Glove for his work at third base.

As the teams engaged in the traditional hand shake at home plate, announcer Pallo wrapped up his final remarks and official scorekeeper Ed Yeager(‘75) closed the book on the very first Bison Baseball Alumni Game. All players then headed for the post game dinner at Adventure Park, hosted by Kevin Billotte. The meal prepared by Jeff Kavelak(’87) was fantastic and so were the stories that were shared long into the night. All in all, it was a great day for Bison Baseball and next year’s celebration promises to be bigger and better. The date has already been set: Saturday, September 23rd at Lawrence Township Recreation Park. See you there!!!