Providence Baseball Run Tickles Alumni

Ah, the Internet is a lovely thing, especially when it comes to following you’re alma mater’s baseball team.

The Providence Catholic baseball team took second place in last Saturday’s Class 4A state finals. Most significantly for the rich tradition of the Celtics was the fact that it was the first time since 1982 that the team took home a trophy.

Throughout the spring, the Celtics compiled 37 wins and had just four losses. And they had plenty of exciting moments during a simply unforgettable season.  They certainly caught the attention of Celtics who donned the uniform in prior years.

“It was very gratifying having a Providence baseball team come away with a trophy this year,” 1988 graduate Mike Tezak said. “Being part of the ’88 team that was highly rated in the nation and falling in the regional final with coach Mark Smith as a teammate that year, I felt like he was able to avenge that loss in some way. The boys and coaches should be very proud that they continued the Celtic baseball tradition.”

Michael Robinson, who played second base and third base for that 1988 team, was reminded of that season while watching the Celtics play last weekend. Robinson’s older brother, James Robinson, played on the 1978 state champion Providence team as well as the third-place Class A basketball team.

“We were stacked, but these guys were even better than us,” he said. “The thing with baseball is you can run into one hot pitcher who has a good day and then you’re done. That’s what happened to us with (Mike) Grace and those guys.”

The Joliet Catholic team that beat Providence in 1988 featured Grace, Sean Bergman and Chris Michalak. All three players eventually pitched in the Major Leagues.

While he’s been busy with his son and daughter’s baseball and softball schedules this spring, 1991 graduate John Ward followed the Celtics closely online and in the papers.

“I am friends with 'Smitty' so I would get updates from him via text and email throughout the season,” Ward said. “Unfortunately, with my kids’ game schedules, traveling and a hectic work schedule, I was not able to see them play in person. I did listen to the semifinal game live on WJOL.com and would have went to both games at Silver Cross Field but we were in a tourney for my son’s 13U team in Michigan City, Ind., at the same time.”

The expectations started in the pre-season for the Celtics and attention soon spread. It certainly caught the attention of 1989 graduate Dominic Delrose, who split time in the outfield during the 33-3 season in 1988.

“Sometimes ‘potential’ is the worst label you can have put on you,” he said. “But this team didn’t disappoint. I remember when I first saw them play I was amazed that this was a high school team. They played bigger than that. I just know they could have competed against some college programs.”

Ron Bills, a 1990 graduate, wasn’t able to sneak out to Tom Dedin field during the regular season, but kept an eye on the Celtics through the media and by talking to other alumni.

“That’s great that they were able to make a strong finish and take second,” Bills said. “I hope all of the young men stay positive and focused on any future dreams they have of playing at the next level. It takes hard work, but pays off in the end.”

While the immediacy of the final game being a loss in the state championship game proved emotional to the players, the alumni looked past that final game and focused on the season as a whole.

“They had a great season and it is a shame it comes down to one game,” Ward said. “But they were rated No. 1 since the preseason, had a target on their back all year and really answered the bell. Tons of talent up and down the roster, and many of them have earned scholarships to play at the next level. Can’t say enough about what 'Smitty' has done with the program, the field, etcetera.”

Delrose was able to visit Silver Cross Field last weekend to take in the state finals as well as catch up with alumni.

“I'm happy to see Providence baseball back on track. I'm happy for the coaches. Frank Cavallone, Andy Carlton, Coach Thomas, and 'Smitty' were all around when I was there and it's obvious the work they put in,” he said. “It's good to see them rewarded for that.

"The best part was seeing so many alumni and former players come out to support them. It was a reunion of sorts. And, someday, many of those same players that were on the field this weekend will be watching from the stands future Celtic teams. They can take comfort in knowing the year they gave us ranks with the best.”

McEnery, Travis Lead Catholic League past Public League

Providence’s Collin McEnery pitched three shutout innings and Sam Travis went 2-for-3 with an RBI to help the Catholic League beat the Public League, 4-0, at U.S. Cellular Field on Monday.

Unlike Those Who Dislike The Heat, Wieclaw’s Loving Miami

Lincoln-Way Central graduate Jake Wieclaw, who made 28-of-34 fields goals during his junior and senior years, including a 52-yarder, is playing football at the University of Miami. He set an Illinois high school record for most career field goals (48).

Fine Finish for First Softball Senior

Lincoln-Way West’s Alex Carr was the softball program’s first senior this spring. She finished her career with a fantastic season, hitting .507 with 11 doubles, four home runs and 31 RBIs while playing a variety of defensive positions. She was named All-Southwest Suburban Red and will continue her career at Maryville University.

Anxious Already for Football

Providence participated in the 7-on-7 Passing Jamboree last Saturday. The Celtics are looking to rebound after stumbling through a 2-7 season last fall.