Submitted by Jennifer Hawkins
July 18, 2015 10:38 a.m.
Fernandina Beach Babe Ruth is currently playing host to the 2015 North Florida 15 and Under State Tournament this weekend. The tournament is hosting the district tournament winners from across the northern half of the state. In attendance this year is Mandarin Athletic Association, Ft. Caroline Athletic Association, Marietta Bullsbay Athletic Association, Orange Park Athletic Association, Melrose Youth Sports Association, South Daytona Babe Ruth, Tallahassee Babe Ruth, Lafayette Babe Ruth and your home team Fernandina Beach Babe Ruth League Pirates. The winner of the State tournament will advanced to the Southeast Regional Tournament hosted in Sarasota.
The double elimination tournament began Thursday with games at both Beech Street and FBHS. The rains moved in and camped out on the northern half of the island that evening, postponing the South Daytona vs. Fernandina game until Friday morning. Games resumed on Friday morning with Fernandina downing South Daytona to advance in the winner’s bracket. Marietta Bullsbay rallied from a five run deficit in the top of the seventh inning, scoring ten runs in their half, to defeat Melrose. Fernandina returned to the ball field for a 4:00 matchup with Lafayette. Fernandina wasted no time, posting five runs in the first inning, continuing on to defeat Lafayette 11-1.
Fernandina Beach Babe Ruth 14U is also in state tournament action this weekend in Lake City. The 14’s lost their opener but rallied yesterday to run rule the 14U Marietta Bullsbay team.
Losers bracket play resumes Saturday morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. Your home town Pirates face off against Marietta Bullsbay at 2:00 p.m. Saturday at Beech Street. No cost for admission, just bring your chair and some shade.
Editor’s Note: Jennifer Hawkins is a freelance business and content writer/blogger with a sometimes simmering passion for local amateur sports and photography. Jennifer grew up in Fernandina and along with her husband and two kids, continues to call Fernandina Beach home.