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I want to officially thank everyone who contributed to the overwhelming success and good old fashioned fun that was generated at last week's 29th annual Cincinnati Reds Legends Youth Baseball/Softball Camp held at Vienna Rec Fields.
The atmosphere was electric and the fun and memories that were experienced by all in attendance, was an awesome thing to see. Cincinnati Reds legendary all-star pitcher Bronson Arroyo headlined the camp and was absolutely super in giving campers instruction on pitching mechanics, while Cincinnati Reds legendary second baseman Pokey Reese worked with youngsters on proper infield skills. Teaching all aspects of hitting with power and the basic mechanics of hitting was Cincinnati Reds hall of famer, and 1990 world champion second baseman Ron Oester. 1990 world champion first baseman Todd Benzinger also attended both days of camp and ran the Homerun Derby station, that has become the absolute favorite station among campers during Reds Legends Week.
From dozens of baseballs and softballs flying out of the park at a momentous rate, to the cheers, and ovations of all onlookers, it was a thrill to see and a memorable experience for all the children. The girls at the camp were head coached by Mid-Ohio Valley Softball Hall of Fame inductee Jill Barber on all aspects of the game. Loyal, and super youth coaches Ron Casci, Chad Barnes, Jim Wilhelm, Kevin Pierson, and former Marshall baseball star pitcher Barry Smith, were all on hand to instruct and help out as usual.
Also coaches and team dads/moms Daniel Wagner, Jeff Hopkins, Jacob Wagner, Michael Wagner Jr., Tim Everson, Ryan Wagner, Eric Morgenstern, Casey Richardson, Darin Sampson, Amanda Berentz, Terri Klingenberg, Jason Kehrberg, John Wickline, Mike Hopkins, Eric Brown, and Joe Matheny, were all in attendance and did a wonderful job. These dedicated people always show up eager to help and never let me down. Always there, always ready to teach and instruct..
Also lunch and snack helpers Theresa Wagner, Vivian King, Nerissa Hall, Charles Miller, Tanya Wagner, Jeff Treadway, Laura Wagner, Cathy Miller, Ben Burns, Timi Wagner and Katee Wagner who did a fantastic job keeping the children fed, and hydrated throughout the day.
Area businesses who kicked in to make this year's event a success included Jack Horton and v96.9 radio, Emerson Avenue Papa John's, Vienna DQ, Zide's Sport Shop, Marietta Giant Eagle, Warren's IGA, Marietta Captain D's, Marietta Long John Silvers, Vienna Dominos, and Marietta Fairfield Inn. And a big thank you also goes out to Mr. Steve Black, and the City of Vienna for hosting the Cincinnati Reds Legends event for the sixth year in a row now. Vienna Rec groundskeepers Max, Ryan, and Kevin were also a tremendous help as usual.
Also many thanks to Jackson Middle School principal Mr. Kisner for allowing us to use the gymnasium as a backup in case of inclement weather. But the weather was dry, and beautiful for both days of the camp. The groundskeepers were all on the job, and awesome as usual.
Another year in the books, and another success.
Cincinnati Reds heroes Bronson Arroyo, Pokey Reese, Ron Oester, and Todd Benzinger were all absolutely amazing! Next summer will mark the 30 year anniversary milestone for the Annual Cincinnati Reds Legends event. Numerous special, and additional gala activities are already being planned for the 30 year Reds community celebration. Details will be released later this fall. The children, camp families, volunteers, coaches, Cincinnati Reds heroes, and all involved with this year's event were tremendously blessed!
I am so very thankful for this community.
Mike Wagner
Marietta