Southern Seniors Begin World Series Run Saturday

It's been 42 years since Southern sent a team to the World Series. Here's a photo of that team, which includes the brother of Southern's current president as well as the uncle of one of the players on this year's team. (click to enlarge)

And here's a note of well wishes from Dan Veneklase, one of the players on that 1976 team:

To the Players, Coaches and Parents:
Wow… congratulations on your many accomplishments.
You have competed with some of the best players in the district, the state, and the region, and have come away champions!!!
You’re now headed to the World Series and will be competing against some of the best baseball players and athletes from across this great country and the world!!!
How blessed are you to play this game at a high level and how proud are we that can follow this journey.
As someone who was fortunate enough to have had that same opportunity 42 years ago, I can tell you that these memories and some of the friendships that you have made on this journey will last a life time. Play hard but enjoy and take in the atmosphere as very few young men of your age get this opportunity.
Be very proud of your accomplishment individually but also collectively as a team, for you have reached the heights very few teams will ever realize.
You now will be representing this great country, your proud state and city, your district and local communities, your schools and churches, but most importantly your parents, family, and friends and let’s not forget the coaches and their families. All have been supportive and instrumental getting you to the point that you are at today.

To the Coaches and Southern Little League Board and Staff:
Thank you for the countless hours spent NOT only on the diamond but also sitting in on meetings and in phone conversations. You have been chosen to lead these young men not only because of your love and knowledge of the game but also because of the great counsel you have proven to provide. Your influence will last a lifetime!!
Continue the great work!!

To the Parents:
Southern Little League has always been richly blessed with a group of parents that have been very involved and very supportive. Thank you for the constant support and countless hours that have been volunteered over your sons entire baseball career up to this point. Without your support, involvement, and encouragement these opportunities would not take place.

To the Players:
I do believe you have some work in front of you!! Bringing home that championship trophy!!!I can’t wait to keep any eye on your progress (on ESPN) and welcome you home.Play hard/have fun.. and remember whatever your role is on this team it’s important.Know that were all very proud of each and every one of you and excited for you!!Now go play like the champions that you are!!May God bless and keep you safe in your travels.

Sincerely,
Dan Veneklase

Here's one more photo of this year's team, Midwest Regional Champions: (click to enlarge)

back: Coach Scott Bernecker, Matt Moore, Ian Walschotts-Dana, Jake Passinault,
Ben Whiteside, Billy Bernecker, Davis Jennings, Keegan Batka, Kyle Kirk,
Coach Jim Weiss, Manager Pat Batka.
front: Patrick Burns, Myles Beale, Robbie Stuursma, Jack Mundell, Kyle Tepper,
Josh Weiss, Alex Kolk, Henry Wassink

Their first game takes place Saturday at 9:00am.