Mr. Lista's thoughts
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THE ANSWER "A.I."
February 18, 2004
Another missed practice, another news conference, and yet more trouble with another coach. I don't care much for Iverson, never have. I will say this, when he plays on the court, no one gives more. However, he is a horrible role model, wife abuser, felon, and sets the worst possible example for young athletes. He is what's wrong with professional sports today. What a distraction it must be to be on the same team with this wanna be gangster. GET RID OF HIM. I hope that I am wrong, but in the end, when all the $$$$$ is gone, as is his possie, A.I. will be right back where he started out. How did this guy ever get into Georgetown University? I know several who were turned down with S.A.T.'s in the 1200 range.
WERE BACK
February 10, 2005
Finally, it's time to play baseball. Our 1st indoor workout at Paley Pal. This is a special time for me, but also a sad one. Why? Very simple. The door at Paley opens, and the guys who moved on from Bandits 2003, just aren't walking through. I go through the same thing every year. However, life goes on, and we have many new faces, along with familiar ones. Hard to believe that we will be playing in just a few weeks. Can't wait.
FINAL THOUGHT FOR 2003
July 16, 2003
In sports, there can only be 1 winner, but that does not make the other team a loser. We had a very good season of baseball, but came up just a bit short. We must give credit to Wayne, as they did do an excellent job. They will represent our league very well in the Regionals.
Many of us, players, coaches, and parents, were disappointed, but that's life, and it does go on after baseball, believe me. I got a chance to say goodbye to many of you last night, and I thank you very much for your kind words. I will miss you. For those who departed and I did not see after the game, I do wish you the very best.
Many of us, players, coaches, and parents, were disappointed, but that's life, and it does go on after baseball, believe me. I got a chance to say goodbye to many of you last night, and I thank you very much for your kind words. I will miss you. For those who departed and I did not see after the game, I do wish you the very best.
LARRY BOWA
July 5, 2003
Sports Illustrated conducted a poll of Major League Players. Phillies Skipper, Larry Bowa, was rated the worst Manager in baseball. Why? Bowa is a tough boss to play for if you don't put out 100% effort. He makes demands and will get in your face when you don't play the game with all you have. I guess he is a lot like me. Present time, if you just let your players do as they wish, no rules or discipline, your considered a great guy. Many of today's stars, batting their weight, just don't like Bowa. One in particular, Travis Lee. This Stiff got 11 million right out of college, and has yet to hit 250. In the old days, 250 would have gotten you a bus ticket home. I have said it here before, these millionaires really have ruined a great game.
CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES
July 12, 2003
Championship games. What a thrill and honor to play in them. By no means is it ever easy to be there in the end. In my life, I have only had the great fortune to play in 2 championship games, one at 16, the other at 22. We say it to you all the time, you not only have to be good and well skilled, you also need a little bit of luck on your side. We have battled all season long with other VERY GOOD TEAMS in our league. It has been very exciting baseball, something you just can't get down at the VET. In the movie "HOOSIERS", the coach (Gene Hackman) tells his players before the big game, that if they play their hearts out, in the end, win or lose, they will be champions in his eyes. My feelings exactly. Remember, stay focused and DEFENSE, DEFENSE, AND MORE DEFENSE.
HEADING TO THE PLAYOFFS
July 3, 2003
We started way back in September, 2002, with Fall Ball. Picked it back up in February with indoor workouts. Played 29 games, victorious in 25, earning the #1 seed in the Main Line Division, against great competition. Job Well Done, but that is now just a memory as we head into the 2nd Season, the Playoffs. This guy is extremely proud of all of your hard work, team play, and dedication.
WIN THE GAME ON THE FIELD
June 26, 2003
I am, and will always be, a coach who wins on the field of play, and not with some burried rule out of the book. I was at the Panthers game this evening, and saw Ivy Ridge take the lead over Bridesberg in the visitor 7th, on a Matt Daley Grand Slam. He absolutely crushed the ball. Now the manager of the home team, instead of rallying his players for a comeback in the home 7th, chose to stall and keep changing pitchers, so the 2 1/2 hour time limit on the game would take effect. Shame on the umpire for allowing this to take place. Well, his tactics were successful, but what a piss poor way to claim a victory. As a player, coach, or fan of the game, how could anyone have respect for this guy. These types are bad, very bad for the game. He may recite it, but it's very obvious that this guy never listened to the pledge before the game. Former Manager, JOHN HUNTER, never played the game in that manner, and would be ashamed if he were with us today.
DEFENSE
June 18, 2003
A baseball saying I was told a long time ago, but never really believed at the time was, "Offense wins games, but Defense wins Championships." How true that is.
FATHER'S DAY 2003
June 15, 2003
As you guys grow older and start your own families, always remember, "Anyone can be a Father, however it takes a special person to be a Daddy."
WHERE DID THE TIME GO?
June 9, 2003
Just left Anthony Capella's graduation party. It just seems like yesterday when I was coaching the 8 year old A's against Capella's Tigers. Cappy stood out even back then. You just knew that he loved the game. He started pestering me about being a Bandit when he was about 11. After a few beers tonight, I looked at the photo display, and just could not feel prouder about Cap. As is usually the case, most of my evening and Buck's was consumed by past players and parents talking Bandits, something we never tire of. One thing I never knew, was how good Cappy can dance. He was on the floor for 2 straight hours.
Friday evening it was Frankie Gailey's party. Once again, past players and Bandits talking Bandits Baseball. Another great time. Frank moved up here when he was 12, and came to us as a 13, just like Cappy. As 13's these were two kids with huge you know what. As with Cap, I could not be any prouder of Frankie. This is not only because of baseball, these are 2 young men on the right track of life, as are all of our guys. There was ground breaking news out of this party, as the Bandits announced that in the very near future, a female softball team will carry the name "BAN-DETS." This should make Ms. Jannet MULLEN-KRIMM extremely happy.
Friday evening it was Frankie Gailey's party. Once again, past players and Bandits talking Bandits Baseball. Another great time. Frank moved up here when he was 12, and came to us as a 13, just like Cappy. As 13's these were two kids with huge you know what. As with Cap, I could not be any prouder of Frankie. This is not only because of baseball, these are 2 young men on the right track of life, as are all of our guys. There was ground breaking news out of this party, as the Bandits announced that in the very near future, a female softball team will carry the name "BAN-DETS." This should make Ms. Jannet MULLEN-KRIMM extremely happy.
OH THOSE BANDIT PITCHERS
June 1, 2003 – 02:00 AM
I am sitting here at work and estatic about the pitching performances of our former Bandit Pitchers, this week in the Catholic League Playoffs. It starts off with my Main Man, Maverick, Matt Daley, shutting down Bonner to only 1 run. Next day, it's Frankie Gailey's turn, holding Roman, and his former teammates, to 1 run, in a 3 to 1 victory. The week ends with Danny Waters, pitching a NO HITTER against Carroll. It doesn't get any better. GREAT JOB GUYS. It's still hard for me to believe that we had all 3 of these guys on the 2000 Team. If not for that horrible call by that umpire in the PA State Finals, we would have held the title of PA State Champs. Oh Well, Life does go on as these 3 fine young men have shown.
PLAYING ABOVE YOUR LEVEL
May 22, 2003
It has always been my belief that you should always strive to play above your level. Not only on the field, but in the clasroom and in life. Down the road, this makes you much better. I will not list them, but every 13 year old that ever played for this team, became outstanding players. Why? It is the way that this whole operation has been run from day one. The schedule of games and the talent we play. The discipline and dedication that we insist of every player. The demands that we place upon all of you. What has bothered me over the years, are people telling young kids with talent, you will sit the bench up there. Yes, you very well might, but I can tell you that the learning experience you gain, far outweighs the sitting, and you will play. This season, SS, 2B, and 1B all began as 13's. That speaks for itself.
MOTHERS DAY
May 11, 2003
This day should mean more to you than any other day of the year. Mothers, they give us life, care for us, and show us an unconditional love for life. Moms, always there when we need them, and yes, sometimes when we wish not. They are the smartest and most understanding people in the world. My poor Mother, with what she went through raising me, I know that she is in heaven today. Thanks Mom, and thank God for Mothers.
SHILLINGTON DODGERS
May 6, 2003
The Shillington Dodgers. From the 1st time that I saw this team after taking over as Manager and President of the Bandits, I was totaly impressed. They play the game the way that it was meant to be played, with hustle and discipline, and are probably the most fundamentaly sound team that I have ever witnessed at this age level. This is one class operation, top to bottom. We have had some great, nail biting games over the years with the Dodgers. Saturday should be no different.
MUSIC
May 4, 2003
Now to look at me, I know that most of my teammates, and the parents, believe strongly that I am a "Hip Hop, Rap Music Kind of Guy." NOT. For me it's SINATRA, MATTHIS, BENNETT, DARRIN, and KING COLE. How can you romance your girlfriend to the sounds Eminem? Can't be done. Remember what I am about to tell you. There will be a point in your lives when you do switch to my kind of music. The summer wind, came blowing in, from across the sea.
MY FAVORITE POSITION
April 29, 2003
I have been asked this question many times and my response is always the same, "Catcher". If I were drafting a team, I would look for the best catcher out there to be my #1. Catchers must be take charge, intelligent, leader type individuals. This is not the position for the meek. The Bandits have been blessed over the years with excellent men behind the plate. These were the guys who kept a single, walk, or error, from turning into a runner on 3rd. As Manager, I never feared calling for a 2 strike curve ball in the dirt with a runner on 3rd. What a group.
LOYALITY
April 25, 2003
Very important to me, and one of the cornerstones of the Bandit Philosophy. We say, "Once A Bandit, Always A Bandit", and we mean it. For us, this program is not just for 1, 2, or 3 seasons with you guys, it's a lifetime friendship. Just ask the players of the Catholic League. They are everywhere and they are all Bandits.
THINKING BEFORE ACTING
April 22, 2003
For a moment, just think of the inventions that have come about over the last 50 years. There have been thousands. Could you survive today without the Internet or your cell phone. It has truly been remarkable. Me, I keep waiting for one invention in particular. Been waiting all my life for the day someone invents how to turn the clock back. Over the years, I would have used that invention many, many times. Once you do something, it's there forever. Always think before you act. Now if I could only learn to follow my own advice.
EASTER
April 17, 2003
As a kid, I was never a big fan of Easter Vacation. In the 60's, parents always made their kids wear a new suit on Easter Sunday. I had to stay dressed from 8 in the morning, until after dinner, and not allowed to do anything. To this day whenever I have to put on a suit, I still think back to then. Also, it always seemed that report cards came out at that time, which was not a very happy time at my house.
DEDICATION
April 16, 2003
To be a "BANDIT", you have got to love the game of baseall, and so do your parents. No other team will demand more of your time. This team is all about baseball and playing, playing & playing. I always enjoyed the expressions on the new Mom's faces, when it's explained that your weekends with family and friends are over until August. I especially like it when we tell them about the annual Mother's Day Double Header against Shillington, at Shillington.
M.L.B.
April 13, 2003
As a kid, went to about 30 Phillies games a year. Absolutely loved it. However, M.L.B. lost me with all of the GREED, STRIKES, and lack of respect for the FAN. If you ask me to go see Clemens vs Johnson, Maddux vs. Schilling, or Daley vs. Gailey, Omlor vs. Waters, it's a no brainer. For me, it's Daley vs. Gailey and Omlor vs. Waters.
LOVE OF THE GAME
April 12, 2003
I have had a love for this great game of baseball from the time that my Dad first introduced it to me at a very young age. Me and my friends played baseball everyday, both on the field and in the streets of North Philly. Where were the Bandits when I was young? I would have given anything to play for that team.
DISCIPLINE
April 8, 2003
We may never want to admit it, but we all want and desire discipline in our lives. It does build character and makes us better people.
TEAM PLAYER
April 14, 2003
There is nothing more important in this game than total team play. This goes from your #1 player to your final man on the roster. Every player has a role on a team, and it is their job to know and accept that role, and to perform it to the best of their ability. This may mean as the lead off hitter, to be selective and get on base. It means to give yourself up with 2 strikes and move the runner. It means as the 3 hitter, to lay a bunt down when asked, knowing that you could knock the ball over the fence. More than anything, it means coming off the bench and performing in the middle to late innings. The Team Player plays, not for the glory of the home run, but for the team victory. Without the "Team Player", we are NOTHING.
FREEDOMApril 6, 2003--FREEDOM is never free. It always comes at great cost. Never forget those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, so we may enjoy OUR GREAT U.S.A. This is most important to us, because as Bandits, we are a part of this Great American Legion Tradition.
MR. LISTA'S ANSWERS
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Ken Doyle writes:
Mike, I'm having some problems w/ grubs on my lawn....when is the best time to put grub killer on my lawn?
Ken, Grub Killer should be applied in the month of June. Remember, put it down when it calls for rain, as it must be watered into the lawn. Hope that helps, and good luck with those nasty little suckers.
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Matt Altomare writes
Mr. Lista, can you name 10 things that Mr. Doyle carried in his bag to all games?
Matt, (1)sewing needle (2)thread (3)spray on skin (4)lacing, soaked in oil, for re stringing gloves (5)directions and short cuts to anywhere on the east coast (6)every medical supply known to man (7)patches for torn pants (8)ten pens for score book (9)spoon to dig out anchors for bases (10)tape for bats.
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Matt Bennett asks
Mr. Lista, why did you always call me Paul?
Well Paul, it's a combination of age and many, many, late nights.
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Ryan Lally writes
Which pitching video do you prefer, Fergie Jenkins, Pitch with the Big Boys, or Tom Seaver's, Strike Em Out.
Ryan, my favorite is Steve Carlton's, never throw a strike if you don't have to.
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Paul M. asks
Can you tell me who the "Sea Hag" and the "Claw" are?
Yes Paul, 2 very old girlfriends from long ago.
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Three students from C.U.A. ask
Who were the drafted pitchers from the C.L. that your son Mike faced, and what did he do the last time he faced them.
They were Jeff Randazzo from O'Hara (2B & 1B) and Gerrad Oakes from Carroll (HR). Guys, what about DEFENSE?????
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Justin writes Who do you think makes the best Hot dog?
Well Justin, there is no doubt in my mind that the best Hot Dog around is made at "YACKO'S", located in Lower Macungie. Just ask Ed Kiefski, he put away 5 foot longs, along with a bowl of chile and a sundae after at victory at L.M. Once back on the road, Ed got lost as usual.
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SEVERAL OF YOU have written in concerning Ken Doyle, and items that I failed to mention he carried in his equipment bag. How could I not have mentioned the following: Extra pair of spikes, size #10. Mr. Doyle's feeling was that most foot sizes were between 9 and 11, and in a pinch size 10 would fit. Eye glass repair kit. Icy Hot. Neoprine wraps. Yes, Ken was truly a Hall of Fame Scorekeeper.
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CHRIS GALLAGHER asks Did you ever coach I.H.M. Basketball, and how many Rolaids did you go through during the course of a game?
Yes Chris, I did coach for several years. I don't quite understand why you would think that I needed medication for a nervous stomach. You and I were together for a couple years, and you had a 1st had look at how I NEVER EVER LOSE CONTROL or GET UPSET. Chris, do you remember that strech of games down at Pachella, when my Doctor had me doped up on strong medication, and I had to sit in the lawn chair next to the cage?
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ROBBY DISANTIS asks When are going to stop bailing out Matt?
Well Rob, the fact is that Matt needs a separate job just to pay all of these Whitemarsh fines he seems to keep getting. What I don't quite understand, if a fine in Philly is $50, and in Whitemarsh it's $450, why do you keep going back there? Can you tell me, you have had a few yourself? Rob, now I have a question for you. Is there anyone in that group that you and Matt hang out with, that has a STREET IQ of better than 75?
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PAUL HEILER of the 2002 Bandits, was told by MIKE KRIMM (2001-02), and asks:Did you travel to London England one January for a baseball clinic?
Yes Paul, Buck and I did take a 4 dayer to Great Britan, however, this was exclusively for sight seeing and not baseball. We visited every PUB in the London area. It's my yearly trip to Santo Domingo for the baseball clinic. At least that's what I tell my wife.
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I am asked by a FALSELY IDENTIFIED WRITER: how big was the board that I was hit with on City Line Avenue while attempting to arrest 2 car thieves?
Very Big. However, those there that night know what the final outcome was.
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Another person, FALSE ID, ASKS: do I know who that is behind me in the picture, and where was it taken.
Sorry, I have no idea. Picture supplied by Buck.
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ZAMO states: the Ladies Man drinks Cavasiere, and wants to know what I, also a Ladies Man, drink.
Me a Ladies Man? Yeah, your right. Strictly beer and responsible.
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Anthony Fresta wonders why: Being a police officer, why do I fashion myself after Tony Soprano?
Look, just because I have Tony Soprano shirts, pants, sport coats, and a gold watch, and smoke his type of cigar, doesn't mean I fashion myself after him.
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MIKE KRIMM (2001-02)would like to know: What is your favorite late night snack?
16 oz. 2% Milk and Cheeze Its.
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RYAN MURPHY (2003) wants to know: Why is it so difficult to adjust to the pitching from H.S. Ball and Legion Ball?
Everyone knows that it's difficult to go from weak pitching to top notch pitching, and for some hitters it can be just as hard to go the opposite way. We have seen both this year. This use to be a simple game until people starting making $$$$$ off of it. Today, every Dad believes that he must take his kid to these Baseball Academies or he won't succeed. Every year it's a different school with a different angle. The one thing I know that does work is WORK. The proper swing, comfortable, bat speed, HITTING TEE, hitting the ball where it's pitched, and swinging at strikes. Good Hitters Adjust. To me, batting average means very little, it's On Base % and good at bats (moving runners, sacrificing,) that really counts.
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BIG ED KIEFSKI was wondering: where he could get a good chile dog.
Well Ed, if memory serves me right, you always purchased your chile dogs at ice cream establishments, and your ice cream at hot dog places. I have a great spot to send you for a dog, but you would only get lost and we would have to send out another A.P.B. as we did in Homer City.
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Jerry Reed (2000-01) wonders: what I think it is that makes the Bandits so special.
Simple, kids like you. Families like yours. It's the way Bandits carry themselves, with class and discipline, both on and off the field. It's TEAM BASEBALL. This is a very big part of my life, as is for the rest of the coaches. We do it because we love it. This team is FAMILY, not only when you guys are with us, but long after you leave. Our moto is so true, "Once A Bandit, Always A Bandit." During our long season, we are together almost every day. After many of the games, we all partied together at the Tiki Bar or over Gailey's. (HINT) I always have said, that all of you guys have given me memories for life, and I thank you all.
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NICK MONTANEZ (1998 EAST PA CHAMPS) asks, who has been tossed out of more games, Me or Mr. Buck.
Sad to say it's Me Nick, but Buck is closing the gap. However, the All Time Leader is none other than our founder, Paul Murphy. His record is like Cal Ripkens, it will never be caught.
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ALMA G., Mom of Frankie Gailey (1999-2000-01), writes, that she does not have to be hit over the head to have a Bandit Party.
Who didn't know that Alma. Last party, you had Frank Sr. making 2 additional refreshment runs. This is what I am talking about. This is why the Bandits are Special, a Family. Alma, we will be in touch when the weather gets a little nicer. Start planning with Patty, and get out to see the 2003 addition of YOUR BANDITS.
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PATTY G (2000-01), questions my heritage, claming that I am 1/2 Irish.
Pat, that is Mr. Buck floating misinformation.
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ZAMO (1998) asks, is it Pat's or Geno's.
Neither Zamo. For me it's "Tony Lukes".
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DAN FUCHS (1999-2000-01) would like to know: as a kid, who was my favorite ball player.
Richie Allen of the Phillies. Back then, it was unheard of to have an out of town hero. I used to get to Connie Mack Stadium at 5:45 just to watch him take BP. He would hit ball after ball onto the roof. His shoulders were enormus, and he swung the biggest & heaviest bat in the league. Richie had a few problems though. He loved the night life, the ladies, booze, and the horses. Had he devoted all of those energies into his game, he would have been a Hall Of Famer. I see him today from time to time over at Ashburn Field, and it is still a thrill to talk baseball with him.
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MATT KERN (2003) would like to know what I think of this year's team.
Matt, I am very excited about 2003, but then again I am always excited about every Bandit Team. We will have good hitting, adequate power, 3 good starters, and I believe great defense. All that doesn't mean a damm thing if we do not play team ball, top to bottom, each and every day. With me on all of your backs, YOU WILL.
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FISH (1993-4-5) wants to know, "What are the qualities of a good 1st base coach?"
Forget it Fish, I am not giving any pointers away now that you are back, and Buckley is trying to kick me off of 1st.
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RYAN LALLY (2001-2-3) questions why I was so happy when we hit the cut off man and threw a runner out at the plate, when it was not the right cut man.
Well Ryan, missing 3/4 of the cuts so far this year, I lost control and was just happy we hit someone.
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JARED O'SHEA wonders why I am not answering questions anymore.
Was away for a few days in Boston, at Fenway. What a beautiful place with so much history, a time when players played for the LOVE OF THE GAME.
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ANTHONY VALUCI (97-98-99) wants to know what my feelings were when we beat South Philly in the semi-finals, with a game ending Sey Hey Play.
Very relieved that the game was over, because they were within striking distance. I did feel sorry for the pinch runner that got caught, but that's baseball.
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RYAN MURPHY (2003) wants to know what my beverage of choice is on Saturday evenings.
Sitting on the front lawn, not driving or leaving the house for the rest of the night, it's Amstel Light. Problem is, sometime the front door is locked when I try to get in.
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RYAN LALLY (2001-2-3), back again with 2 more questions. He wants to know why I am against letting him Catch, and why I am constantly getting calls on my cell phone.
Yes, I am against you catching, and the reasons are obvious. I will do everything in my power to keep you away from behind the plate, and to keep you on the mound. Regarding the cell phone, I am just a popular guy I guess.
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MATT MARCINEK (03) asks the following. What would be the best summer job with all this baseball that we have?
One that does not interfere with all of this baseball that we have. Look for something that gets done by 2.
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MATT BENNETT (01-02) wants a comparision of the 02 and 03 Bandit's Team.
Unfortunately, Team 02 had to make a few roster moves several games into the season, which is never good. However, who would have ever thought that a 13 year old (Cafagna), would have played SS as he did. It's unheard of at this level. Now we will talk about Paul Heiler. He sat patiently on the bench, just waiting for his shot, and when he got it, he played the position (Centerfield) 100%. This kid was a TEAM PLAYER. Mike Krimm is gone, and has to be replaced. He did it all for us, defense, offense, power, and pitching, and being a LEADER. Next to impossible to replace, but life must go on. Matt Kern has played flawless defense through 10 games, and will hit. Cafagana and Lally at SS and 1B, and DiGiovanni replacing you at 2B. Matt, I told you the same thing I told another 2B (Matt Lista) years back, just play defense and make the routine plays. Both of you did do that and also hit above what I ever imagined. Tough to replce Dutill's arm behind the plate, but with each game, our catchers make steady progress. Going into the 03 season with 3 starters, but excellent arms, we must stay away from injuries and play Bandit Defense for them. Bullpen, same as 02, all come in and throw strikes. Last year's team started off slow, but came on as the season progressed, and played for championship. You guys made more progress from start to finish then any other Bandit Team. This year we start 8-2. As with every year in Bandit History, it will be exciting and just hope to be there in the end.
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JOHN FISHER (The Dad and Manager of 13 year old Bandit Team), would like to know if he should throw a party for his son John (Bandit 1B Coach) for graduating college, or is he too old.
Have the party. However, car keys must be surrendered upon entrance.
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FRAN LALLY WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MY TOP 5 PLACES TO XMAS SHOP.
What????? I usually go on the 24th, wherever I happen to be.
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PAUL RAMBO (1999-2000) writes, who was my favorite player to mow Dago Louies with, and what was in my cooler at 9 AM, before our night game?
Paul, you were my favorite mower. The cooler contained just a few Bud Lights.
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JANET KRIMM would like to know if I would ever allow a girl to play for the Bandits.
ABSOLUTELY. You have known me for some time and we have spoken on this subject several times. Why do Right Wing, Ultra Conserative Republicans, always get a bad rap in this area?
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DAVE OMLOR (99-00) would like to know my top 5 Bandit Memories.
Well Dave, this is an almost impossible question to answer, because every year there are hundreds. My #1 has to be our 1-0 victory over Conestoga to win the 2000 Main Line Championship. The game was played in 1 hour and 20 minutes. You pitched the game of your life that night. The ending, hard ground ball to Capella, fires to Lista at 2nd, who pivots and makes the throw to Graveley at 1b (6-4-3).
Winning the East Regionals against Spring City and the ALL NIGHT PARTY at the TIKi BAR. What a 24 hours.
Our come from behind playoff victory against Del Val at Dago Louies, down 6-0, spured on by the near riot.
Using 13 year old Anthony Capella as a pinch hitter in the East Regional Championship against Spring City, and Cappy delivering with a huge single. I can still see the looks on most of our fans faces when Cappy was announced. What the hell is he using a 13 year old in this situation. I guess they didn't know Capella.
Daley, Gailey, Waters, Omlor, Capella. Best staff in baseball.
Finally, just watching all of you Bandits grow and succeed the way that you all have. The fun of the road trips, playing at Dago Louies, and just being a BANDIT.
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WOW, another question from Catholic University. I am told in the message that former Bandit, PETE DOYLE (97/98/99), who plays for C.U.A., gave one of his Bandit shirts to a fellow teammate. This guy then gives the shirt to his little brother, who wears it under his uniform, and goes on to pitch a 5 hitter against the #3 seed team in Massachusetts. The writer would like to know if I believe the Bandit shirt had anything to do with Milton H.S. performance.
Pete, and those who have worn the Bandit uniform, will tell you that it is the hard work and dedication that makes the Bandits what they are. I know how I feel everytime I put the uniform on, PROUD. However, the uniform does not make the player. The player makes the uniform. This pitcher pitched the game, and a fine job he did. The baseball Gods have always shined on the Bandits because of our love and respect for the game. KEEP WEARING IT. Go East Milton.
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RAY BIDUS (Commish of 21st Ward), asks, do I know when this rain will end?
All I can tell you Ray, is that it looks as if there will be no need for Fall Ball this year, as you guys will be playing make ups into November.
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JERRY BIDUS (03) informs me that Matt Marcinek (03) was the "Tin Man" in his school play, and would like to know if I believe he has a future on the silver screen.
That would be a Bandit's 1st.
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PAUL MURPHY, founder and C.E.O. of the Bandits, wants to know if the rumor of the Bandits going coed, is true.
Boy, it doesn't take long for the rumor mill to get flowing. What is currently being explored, is having a girl's softball team, which would carry the name, "Ban-Dets. Let me remind everyone, the Bandits are, and have always been, and equal opportunity baseball team. If there is a female out there who can hit like Devenney, pitch like Daley, Gailey, Waters, Omlor, Fuchs, and a host of others, please, send them down.
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TOM O'CONNOR (96-97), Georgetown U. pitcher and only Bandit to pitch a "Perfect Game", wants to know how I am coping with all of this rain.
Not well at all. Very depressing. However, at this point we are 13-3, so let it rain.
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PATTI OMLOR sends in a few questions. The 1st one concerns her desire to coach the much talked about, BAN-DETS Female Softball Team. Her assistants would be Mrs. Gailey and Mrs. Buckley. 2ND, she wishes to know if I would be willing to supply the medication I take before games, and a lawn chair to sit in upon mediacation.
As we told all of you Friday evening, numerous people have called to be interviewed for this position. All of you will be called back to set up this interview. As far as having the interview conducted at the "Tiki Bar", that would most definitely put you out in front of the others. As far as medication, I was only medicated about 4 times, but I still have the prescription.
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KENNY (BOY-MAN) DEVENNEY (96-97-98), states that he will soon be 21, and would like my advice on how to pick up women at bars and clubs.
Ken, it is a shame that you were not with us last year a Murphy's Bar, when I gave a 1 hour clinic on this very same subject to Anthony Valucci. This is a family site, so you will have to hook up with him for notes on this subject. One thing I can tell you is that you will never get a hit, if you don't step up to the plate. I used to get gunned down about 9 out of 10 times, but guess what, I still was ahead of the guys who were 0 for 0. One thing I will tell you is to always start out knock dead gorgeous, and as the evening progresses, work your way down. Wait a minute, you are one of the heart throbs of the 21st Ward.
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TODD KIEFSKI (97-98), asks, what do I believe was so special about the 98 Team.
98 was a fabulous year. We were East Champs and played in the State Tournament. We had great kids and parents, and we were a very tight team. We had the Homer City trip, which everyone enjoyed. Dago Louies. The many parties during the season. It was just fantastic.
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JIM "NICK" RAFTER, (97-98), sends me the triva question, can I name the movie that the team watched at the hotel in Homer City.
That's an easy one Nick. It was "Red Shoe Diary". It is also where you got the nickname of "Nick", as one of the porn stars were so named. In addition, the lead actor looked like Mr. Carapucci. For the record, there has been much talk about coming out with a Bandit Triva Game. Start thinking about some good questions.
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Matt Altomare (97), and Pat DiGiovanni (02-03), have questions concerning my new tattoo of the Roxborough Bandit Logo. Matt asks, "Why the Tatto", and Pat wants to know, "Why after all these years with the Bandits, did I decide to get it."
I have been wanting to get this for a long time. Seems like something always came up and it never materialized. The Bandits are a huge part of my life, the logo is really sharp, and I just wanted it. If anyone was to ask me my opinion on tattoos, I would tell them to "Never get one." Once you do, it is there for life. Tattoos do not look good on Doctors, Lawyers, and C.E.O.'s, as many of you guys will turn out to be.
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KEVIN MCGINN (01-02) would like to know if the rumor that Me and Buck will be coaching Roman's freshman team are true.
It all depends if I can remain on my current midnight shift at work. That is the only way that I could do it. I have always wanted to do freshman baseball, because I believe that it is the most important part of any baseball program. It is at this level that you develop players for the Varsity Team, and it is very important to start you guys off right, just as we do on the Bandits. If not this year, definitely in 2 years when I leave the Police Department.
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AL ALTOMARE, former coach of the Bandits, head coach of Senior American Legion, Ivy Ridge Panthers, and "FRIEND OF THE LITTLE LEAGUER", would like to know if only my hairdresser, and the Bandit Family, know that I color my hair.
Al, it was a closely guarded secret for a few years, but then my wife started buying anything that was on sale. One time she got a great price, but my hair actually turned a shade of redish purple, and the secret was out. You remember, that was the year I had to get the BUZZ Haircut. Last week it was 35% grey, but at the present time, it is jet black.
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MATT KERN (2003) would like to know why I was not "Pissed" when we lost to Wayne.
We say it before every game, "I WILL KEEP A STOUT HEART IN DEFEAT." That code means something to me and I really believe in it, and in American Legion Ball. Let's be honest here Matt. We were soundly defeated on the field. After those 2 games, there was no doubt in my mind that they were the champs. What I did as they were celebrating on the field, was to applaud them, and as I was, I saw many on our team doing the same, as were the Bandit Parents. This showed real class and made me feel so proud. I am not sure that if the case were reversed, the same would have happened, but I would have hoped so. Pissed, NEVER. How could I be with the season we had and the effort put forth by the 2003 Bandits. Disappointed, YES, especially today, when I would have loved being up at Regionals. Remember, it's only a game, and you played it very well.
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