Scandal Rocks North Greenville Baptist Association Basketball League

by Lead CGBCNN Lead Writer Randy Pifer

Updated at 9:30 PM on 9/19/13

Playing with only five players at tip off, CGBC came to play and punched Double Springs Baptist Church in the nose.  The lead ballooned to as many as nine in the later stages of the first half.  A late arriving Michael Moon gave The Reformers only six available players for the game.  "We were shorthanded tonight, but we sucked it up and played with our own eligible players" said Donny Mathis.  A formal protest has been lodged against Double Springs for playing two ineligible players during the game.  "There is never a reason to play ineligible players in a game" said former Ohio State coach Jim Tressel who was not in attendance at the game tonight.

Despite the scandal, CGBC played their best game of the year.  Josh Harbert played like a man possessed and dominated both sides of the court.  Jeremy Wetherton played aggressively throughout the game, but struggled with his shot during critical stretches.  Stephen Donovan scored a career high fourteen points and Randy Pifer chipped in seven on 3-4 shooting.  Mathis's slump continued on the offensive side of the ball and Moon looked lethargic during some stretches of the game.

CGBC's lead slipped away and they trailed 40-30 at halftime.  The deficit hoovered around fifteen points for the remainder of the game with the final score settling at 81-66.  With the inevitable suspensions coming down, it is not unreasonable to expect that this loss will be overturned and CGBC's record will be changed to 1-5.  The Fightin' Reformers await the arbitrators ruling at the beginning of next week.  Next game is 7:15 at Double Springs against St. Andrews.  CGBC will try to break their losing streak against a team they have lost to twice this season. All fans are encouraged to attend.

Fightin' Reformers Fall to 0-5

by Lead CGBCNN Writer Randy Pifer
Updated at 8:19 pm on 9/19/13

In an outcome that shocked no one, the Reformers drop another game to St. Andrews 81-48.  "CGBC has become the Cleveland Browns of the North Greenville Baptist Association Basketball League" said a disgruntled Randy Pifer.  "We may have to change our name in the near future" said Donny Mathis.  The game started out much differently than the previous four losses as CGBC jumped out to a sizable lead but stamina issues reared their ugly head as their lead melted away.  By halftime, The Reformers trailed by eleven and their slim chances of capturing their first win fell by the wayside.

In the first half they were spurred on by newcomers Jeremy Wetherton and Jason Stuckey and the Reformers showed signs of life, but it was not enough against a hot shooting St Andrews team.  CGBC falls to 0-5 on the season and 0-2 against St. Andrews.  "I love to play the game, but its tough to get dominated this bad" said Wetherton who led the team in scoring in his first start for the Reformers.

With six games left in the season, CGBC must dig deep if it is to win even one game this year.  If Wetherton, Stuckey, Michael Moon, Josh Harbert, and Matt Garren all show up to the same game, the sky is the limit for where this team could go.  However, the patchwork Reformer keep trudging along losing game after game as the fan base starts to question their commitment.

CGBC Continues Slide: Drop a 42-75 Decision to Double Springs

by CGBCNN Lead Writer Randy Pifer
Updated 11:45 PM 9/12/13

Despite Randy Pifer's heroics, CGBC was not able to get off the schneid as they fall to 0-4 in a season that does not feel like it will ever end.  Pifer and Donny Mathis both hit season highs in points, but had no help from anywhere else and as a team shot a paltry 26%.  "We have no ability to score and have very few committed members on this team" a frustrated Mathis exclaimed.  "This was one of the most demoralizing games I have ever been apart of" said Stephen Donovan.  "We have players out there who don't understand team defense, can't shoot, rebound or pass the ball, but other than that they are pretty good players" he quipped.

The locker room is understandably somber in the wake of the losing streak, but help is on the way.  Jeremy Wetherton is expected to be making his debut on Tuesday night.  His offensive prowess is what the team has been sorely lacking to start this season.  If Matt Garren and Josh Harbert are both back from their undisclosed absences, CGBC turns from a "laughing stock" into just a "giggle vine".  Mathis, in true Mathis form, resorted to his softball tactics by yelling at his teammates as a way of encouraging them.  This worked flawlessly in softball when he yelled at Pifer during a game.  Pifer responded like a champion and played like an all-star for the rest of the game.  This did not have the same effect on the basketball court as numerous players cowered in the corner and were afraid of incurring his wrath.  "You just have to know how to take him" said Pifer.  "I have spent a lot of time with him, and know it is just his way of motivating us" he added.

Gary Davis returned from his injury, and played aggressively, but struggled with his shot.  He was able to get to the line, but shot a disturbing one for six from the line.  John Miller also struggled from the field and spent the last few minutes on the bench trying to figure out how to turn this season around.  Will Brown shot a horrific 0-7 from three point range and only managed three cherry-picked layups to finish with six points.

The GM has been tossing around the idea of cancelling Fan Appreciation Night.  The lack of fan attendance combined with the poor play of the team is creating a perfect storm.  The team seems to be in sleep mode and just wading through the rest of the season.  "As of right now, it is still on.  We hope to turn this season around" the GM said as he refused to answer any further questions.  Jordan Lazar assumed the role of statatician and did an excellent job.  "She may have been the MVP of the game" said League President Wayne Fowler.

9/12 Boxscore

CGBC Fantasy Football 2013: The Chase for the Belt

CGBC's Fantasy Football league is off to a great start.  Twelve teams are fighting for the coveted CGBC Fantasy Football Championship Belt.  Defending champion, Randy Pifer and newcomer EJ Lundy, managing their team "14 in a Row" appears to have the inside track on yet another championship after their dominating performance in week one over the "Jive Turkeys" managed by Thomas Richardson.  "Rocky Top" managed by Tom Davis had the biggest offensive output of the week behind Peyton Manning's seven touchdown performance, but doesn't figure to challenge for the belt.

Matt Rogers, Ty Thompson, Donny Mathis and Corey Davis also walked away with wins in week one. Paul Lazar struggled in his fantasy football debut managing less than 70 points.  Amber Mathis, Rickey Davis, Gary Davis and Ben Elting also had disappointing starts to their seasons and look to turn their fortunes around in week two.

Below are the current standings and this weeks match ups:

CGBC Scores Season High 48 Points: Loses by 50

by CGBCNN Reporter Randy Pifer
Updated at 10:45 pm on 9/10/13

The Fightin' Reformers jumped out to a quick two nothing lead when Stephen Donovan skillfully sliced amongst the trees for a layup. That was the last time they led.  The Warriors, who played last year as Evangelistic Temple, ran away from CGBC and handed them their worst defeat in franchise history.  CGBC's record against this time falls to 0-3.  In 2012 Evangelistic Temple manhandled The Reformers in their season opener and then edged them on Fan Appreciation Night.  This team is completely different, however.  Gone are hall-of-famers Jon Goforth, Ben Skaug, Benji Hutson and Aaron Cline.  All that remains is a team that is searching for its identity, and talent.

Without their three best players, Josh Harbert, Michael Moon, and Matt Garren, it was really no contest from the tip.  "What a disappointment this season is turning out to be" said Lane Hatcher, who has yet to return to his former high school glory.  Iron-man Donny Mathis, fighting through pain, was able to get some open shots, but time after time was denied by the cruel rim.  Thomas Richardson's gritty play was rewarded with the play of the game when he chased down their point guard and rejected his layup attempt in LeBron James fashion.  That is not an accurate description of what happened at all, but since their is no video evidence you will have to believe what this reporter is writing as truth.  Ah, the Power of the Press!

Right before halftime, Richardson was involved in the most gruesome injury in CGBC history.  The blood that poured from his body was gut wrenching.  "It reminded me of the Kevin Ware's injury" said John Miller as the rest of the team took a knee as the halftime whistle blew.  As Richardson's shoe was removed, his toenail came with it.  A torn toenail was the diagnosis and his status is in doubt for the rest of the season.

The statistician was so embarrassed during the game that they decided to not keep stats and could only guess to the amount of points scored by any player.  "Does it really matter?" they asked.  Will Brown, making his first start of the year was able to get some shots to fall in the second half, but it was much too little too late.  "Miller led the team in scoring for the first time this season, we think" said GM Randy Pifer.

There are more games in the season, but like the old saying goes "if a tree falls in the woods does it make any sound?"  So too, "if CGBC loses with no one there to witness, did it really happen?"  Fan support has been pitiful and the team is playing accordingly.  Fan attendance total in three games is five.  FIVE!  Paul and Jordan Lazar, and Rachel, Levi and Samantha Hatcher.  If the CGBCNN is able to personally name every fan that has attended a game there is a problem.  The GM is encouraging all fans to come out and support the team as there are unfortunately seven games left in the season!

Season Totals

9/5 Boxscore

CGBC Drops Second Game in a Row

The second season for the CGBC Fightin' Reformers is off to an inauspicious start.  The return of Josh Harbert and Michael Moon was not enough to hold off a strong St. Andrews Presbyterian squad as your Reformers dropped a closer-than-it-looks 38-73 decision.  The shorthanded CGBC team had to call on some stars from yesteryear to help, and in the early going seemed to be working.  Moon was a solid eight for sixteen from the field for a team leading sixteen points and grabbed eight rebounds but it was not even close to being enough.  Harbert added eleven points and thirteen rebounds but shot the ball very poorly, as did the rest of the team.

The bench was very thin for the Thursday 6:30 pm tip.  With only seven active players, CGBC has playing from behind the eight ball from the beginning.  They were able to keep it close until fatigue started to set in halfway through the second half and St. Andrews pulled away.  Early MVP front-runner Matt Garren was unable to play due to a prior engagement and they were without starting center Gary Davis who was placed on the day-to-day list earlier in the day with a sore back.  Starting forward Lane Hatcher also missed to game for undisclosed reasons.  Justin McDaniel, Thomas Richardson and Brian Henderson also were unavailable for the game.

For the second game in a row, The Fightin' Reformer role players were unable to make anything happen as Donny Mathis, Stephen Donovan, Randy Pifer, Jeremiah Summers and John Miller shot a combined 6 for 39 and were ineffective on both ends of the court.  "We need to work on the Mikan drill because we are all-stars at making cuts, but very much below average at finishing" said Donovan as he missed yet another wide open layup.  "We really miss a guy like Hall-of-Famer Jon Goforth" said Pifer.  "We have no true scorer who can get his shot anytime he wants" he added.

"We knew it would be a rebuilding year, but I don't think any of us were prepared for this" said Mathis as he was entering the locker room.  "This is a player's only meeting" he said as he closed the door.  The CGBCNN tried to get a comment from GM Pifer, but his visible disappointment was enough to scare this reporter off from trying to get a statement.  The next Reformer game will be Tuesday night at 8:15 at Double Springs Baptist.

9/3 Boxscore

2013 CGBC Fightin' Reformers Basketball Schedule

Fightin' Reformers Fall to Pebble Creek

by CGBCNN Staffer Randy Pifer

The Fightin' Reformers were unable to get much offense going as they lost to a much quicker and more athletic Pebble Creek team. Pebble Creek dominated every aspect of the game, and exposed CGBC's weakness at every position. The Reformers lone bright spot, Matt Garren, was able to get inside on numerous plays and led the team with twelve points. John Miller chipped in nine. "We are in a rebuilding year that is evident" said Thomas Richardson who, along with Brian Henderson, displayed ample hustle and gritty determination but were unable to make much of a difference in the final score. "We may not have the talent we had last year, but the comments coming from the bench are much funnier this year" said Justin McDaniel.


Starting center, Gary Davis, was able to make some things happen down low by grabbing numerous big rebounds, but was unable to convert many put backs as the Reformers left too many points on the floor. He finished with four point. Donny Mathis and Stephen Donovan added three points each. Lane Hatcher, who had not touched a basketball in fifteen years, was rusty and ineffective in his return to the court.
With nine games left in the season, CGBC needs to find some offense and quick. The only returning starter from last years team, Randy Pifer, was unable to make anything happen. He went one of five shooting with three points in his season debut. "I need to be more aggressive and look for my shot. If I am not shooting twenty times a game we can't win" he exclaimed.

The schedule for the rest of the year was released and the GM's office will release it to the public in the coming day. Fan Appreciation Night has been tentatively scheduled for October 1st at 7:15 PM at Double Springs Baptist Church. The GM's office released the following statement: "We hope you will make plans now to attend Fan Appreciation Night! We are making early plans to make this the most memorable Fan Appreciation Night in CGBC History."

The Reformers take the court for the second game of the year on Thursday night at 6:30 PM at Double Springs Baptist Church. Come out and support the Fightin' Reformers as they try to right the ship!

Fightin' Reformers Hold First Practice... Kinda

By Randy Pifer

Season number two is about to kick off for the CGBC Fightin' Reformers and GM Randy Pifer is already disappointed in his team. Their first practice was held Wednesday night and the turn-out was less than inspiring. Earlier in the day, starting center Michael Moon quit on his team citing work, school and family obligations as his reasons. Newly acquired stars Lane Hatcher, Justin McDaniel and Gary Davis all thought it not important enough to show up as well as returning stars Donny Mathis and Josh Harbert. Thomas Richardson was the only excused absence.

Brian Henderson and Randy Pifer did show up for the practice, but due to the fact there was no one else there, left after shooting around for just a few minutes. "I think our biggest problem is the lack of a coach" said Henderson. Last years head coach, Zack Blount, will be sorely missed this year. His game management abilities were second to none. "We are also missing our top four scorers from last years team" said Pifer. It is going to be a rebuilding year for sure.

The team did add some talent in hopes to ease the transition. Lane Hatcher, who lead the Travelers Rest High School Devildogs to their best season ever in 1998, was the biggest off season aquisition. He has not, however, touched a basketball since his senior year. He expects it will be just like riding a bicycle and only needs a few layups to knock all the rust off. The addition of defensive stopper Justin McDaniel will be key to help try and replace Aaron Cline who lead the team last year in every defensive category. Gary Davis hopes to play big in the post, something this team has severely lacked this last year.

Randy Pifer has assumed the role of scorer and expect to more than make up for the loss of Jon Goforth and Benji Hutson. "I don't see myself NOT taking at least 30 shots a game" he said. His off season was spent preparing for this new role by playing no basketball.

It is sure to be an incredible year and we encourage everyone to be in attendance for every game! "The schedule should be released in the next few days" said league representative Wayne Fowler. 

Runnin' Reformers Kick Off Cross Country Season

The Inaugural CGBC Runnin' Reformers Track and Field team got off to a "glowing" start as they participated in the "Go Glo 5K".  Team captain Charla Henderson was excited about the event and was just glowing during her interview with the CGBCNN.  "It has been a long time coming, but I am glad that this night is finally here" she said.  Heather Tolbert echoed the sentiment and saw a camaraderie among her teammates that she suggested may have been missing on some of the other teams that CGBC has fielded.  "Track is really all about working together.  There is no one person who is more important than anyone else on this team" she explained.

This race was unique in that it was in a natural environment.  It was held on a nature trail and this was a interesting yet challenging addition to a normal 5K.  Stephanie McDaniel, a seasoned 5K participant noted "this was more enjoyable because we got to experience God's creation first hand while running."  The team was able to walk away without any twisted ankles or trips, two of the most common incidents in this type of a race environment.  Amber Mathis seemed to be most worried about the tree roots which she affectionately nicknamed "ankle breakers", but skillfully avoided every single one with ninja-like ability.  Brian Henderson, Donny Mathis, and Justin McDaniel also participated.

This race is more about the fun and enjoyment of running and being with your team rather than trying to run the race as fast as you can.  It was the perfect warm up to the season as the CGBC Runnin' Reformers prepare for the rest of the summer.

Softball MVP Winner, End of Sports Year One at CGBC

In an almost unanimous decision, Aaron Cline was named the MVP of the softball season in a private ceremony held earlier today.  Cline was the most dominate player, leading the league in home runs with 8 and led the Reformers in batting average by hitting .857.  This marks his first MVP award as a member of the Reformers, but will unfortunately be his last.  He has decided to take his talents elsewhere next season.  We wish him well as he moves on in his career.

Cline received 7 of 9 first place votes.  Benji Hutson and Donny Mathis each received 1 first place vote.  "I'm honored to be selected as the MVP.  I could not have accomplished this without my teammates" he said to the CGBCNN after the ceremony.  "It was a season to remember and I will cherish these memories."

The ceremony also marked the end of the first year of sports at CGBC.  There was a video montage played to mark the highlights and at the end there was not a dry eye in the room.  "We say goodbye to some of the best Reformers in both softball and basketball tonight" said GM Randy Pifer.  Basketball MVP's Benji Hutson and Jon Goforth, Cline, Zack Blount, and Ben Skaug have all completed their contracts and are not expected to resign in the off season.  "But fear not" said Justin McDaniel, "we have some of the prime-time players returning next year!"  The CGBCNN assumes he was talking about Donny Mathis, Lane Hatcher, Randy Pifer, Michael Moon, and Eiji "the Japanese Storm" Fujino.

In what can only be described as an extremely successful first year, The CGBC Fightin' Reformers are looking forward to what the future will hold.  The foundation blocks have been laid, and the whole organization hopes that those who remain will build on what these great players started.

Final Game Box Score and Final Season Stats

Fan Appreciation Night Part Deux Recap

CGBCNN Staff Writer Randy Pifer
Updated on 5/8/13 at 1:00 AM

Fan appreciation night last Friday night was a disappointment on some levels due to the weather.  The General Manager thought it would be a good decision to allow the fans the chance to come out for tonight's game to enjoy some of the benefits that they didn't get to enjoy last game. Thus Fan Appreciation Night: Part Deux was born.  Unfortunately, the beautiful spring weather from earlier in the day turned into a downpour as the game began forcing the droves of fans to their cars to seek cover.

The game started with a bang in the first inning as the Reformers jumped to a quick 5-0 lead and did not look back as they won the game 11-1 to finish their season with a 6-3 record.  "This was the most successful season in CGBC history and I was happy to be witness to their success" said Amber Mathis.  Aaron Cline hit his team leading and single season record eighth home run in the second inning and cemented his place as front runner for the team MVP award.  John Michael Gibson also hit a home run.

Ben Bosworth (3-0), making his third start, pitched a masterful game and allowed a season low one run to end the season on a high note.  Bosworth scattered five hits and was 1-2 at the plate to help his team on both sides of the plate.  Clearview Baptist was never able to get anything going against the powerful righty and the rain was a huge help as well.  The outfield was able to keep their footing and make most of the pop up plays in the outfield.  Eiji Fujino played well in right center.

The season comes to an end and the Reformers say goodbye to some of their beloved players.  The softball team will say goodbye to Benji Hutson, Aaron Cline, John Michael Gibson, Zack Blount, and Rachel Blount.  The Basketball team says goodbye to Jon Goforth, Hutson, Cline, and Blount.  They also want to congratulate them as they are graduating from North Greenville University on Thursday and moving on to the next chapter in their lives.  Hutson and Cline are headed to Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, while Goforth is headed to Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary.  "We wish them well and will be praying for them as they depart.  We love them and will miss them greatly" said GM Randy Pifer.

Most Valuable Player Nominees

As we come upon the last game of the season, Tuesday night, it is time to announce the 3 finalist for the softball MVP award.  The MVP is judged on three criteria: statistical performance, leadership ability, fan appeal.

The three nominees are:


Donny Mathis:
Donny was instrumental in keeping the team together.  He is a leader on and off the field.  Donny is not afraid to yell at another teammate if necessary, even taking it to the point of downright embarrassing someone if it means helping the team.  Said teammate Randy Pifer, "he will yell at you if you make a mistake, and it always embarrassing and hurtful!"  Mathis is also hitting over .600 on the year and has made a strong case for MVP consideration.





Aaron Cline:
Aaron has been the unquestioned leader when it comes to on-field production.  He has a team leading seven home runs on the year and is hitting an unbelievable .846 for the year.  He has had some issues with controlling his temper which will cost him valuable leadership points.  "Whenever we have needed a big hit, Aaron has been the one to take care of business" said Manager Justin McDaniel.






Benji Hutson:
"Benji is the heart and soul of this team" said Zack Blount.  Hutson has been instrumental in keeping the mood light in the clubhouse and making sure that the team is relaxed.  He is great at encouraging his teammates to make sure they play at their best.  He is also hitting over .600 and is second on the team in home runs.

Fan Appreciation Night Game Day Program

CGBC Walks Away a Winner on Fan Appreciation Night!

CGBCNN Staff Writer Randy Pifer
Updated 5/3/13 at 11:58 PM

The weather kept the huge crowds away, but the quality of fan was at an all time high.  The Reformers (5-3) treated their fans to a huge 14-8 win over Praise Cathedral and assured CGBC of its first winning season in any sport in their young history.  Amber Mathis, wife of 3B Donny Mathis, led the crowd in cheers as the festive atmosphere overtook the poor weather and everyone was able to leave with a smile.  Justin McDaniel(1-0) started his first game of the year and was in command from the start.  He was able to paint the corners and made the opposing hitters reach all night long.  McDaniel had the play of the night when a hot shot line drive was hit back up the middle.  Justin threw his arm out and somehow made the incredible catch and threw to first to complete the double play.  Lane Hatcher, making his first start at second base, made every play towards him and kept the opposition from getting runs early, while earning the defensive player of the game award.

C Randy Pifer, who graduated from college earlier in the day, was somehow able to make it to the game and outside of a missed play at home plate, played well.  The error by Pifer was his team leading ninth of the year.  Mathis thought it necessary to berate him for his mistake by shouting "CATCH THE BALL".  Pifer responded to the CGBCNN after the game by saying, "it was a motivational ploy by Donny, and it worked".      Tom Kline said of the confrontation, "I thought Donny was out of line; without Randy's hitting this game was a lot closer tonight!"  Rachel Blount continued her hot hitting streak by going 2 for 3 and played well in right field.  Her husband Zack Blount, who was playing at first tonight, seemed to benefit from hitting behind Pifer, saw a lot of good pitches to hit and went 2 for 3 as well.

"Every time we have one of these Fan Appreciation Nights, I am always surprised and encouraged by the unity CGBC shows" said GM Pifer.  Brian and Charla Henderson took in their first Reformer game and had nothing but positive things to say after the game.  "It was a truly fun and family friendly atmosphere" said Brian before Charla added "I'm glad the weather cleared up and we could enjoy the whole evening".  There were signs in the crowd, noise makers and pom poms to really add to the party like atmosphere.  With only one game left in the season, CGBC could not be in a better frame of mind as they enter the last week.  Tuesday night at 7:30 PM, CGBC will take on new rival Clearview Baptist in their annual end of the year battle.  "Come support the team and say goodbye to the players who will not be returning next year" said Manager McDaniel.  Players who will not be on next years team include, Benji Hutson, Ben Skaug, Aaron Cline, Zack and Rachel Blount, and John Michael Gibson.  CGBC released the following statement "we appreciate all these players have done for this program, and we will miss each one of them.  Our prayers go with them as they seek what the Lord will have them do in the future."

Game 8 Box Score and Updated Season Stats

Updated Season Stats and Game 6 and 7 Boxscore

Reformers get Split in Double Header

The Fightin' Reformers fought a tough double header and walked away with a split.  The first game of the night saw the Reformers drop an 11-7 game against Abundant Life in which the Reformers were playing a few men down.  They had to use a new pitcher Ben Bosworth (1-1), and stat girl Rachel Blount just to have enough to play the game.  Blount and Bosworth both made plays to help the team.  Blount went one for two at the plate and made a great play by catching a throw from Bosworth at the plate and tagging out the runner who was attempting to score.  Bosworth made a few nice plays on balls hit back up the middle along with throwing two strikeouts.  "He was throwing some nasty stuff out there" said Zack Blount.

CGBC dug a 10-2 hole and was almost able to dig themselves out, but fell just short.  "That was a valiant effort.  We have nothing to be ashamed of" said Donny Mathis.  Playing without all-league SS Benji Hutson the Reformers had to settle for a patchwork infield and outside of an incredible unassisted double play by 1B Randy Pifer they saw highlights few and far between in the early innings.  SS Mathis did, however, set a CGBC record by being apart of six double plays in the two gams.  "It should be noted that if it weren't for horrible play by Pifer at first base, there would have been at least two more double plays" said Aaron Cline.

The second game saw things turn around.  Hutson and Zack Blount both were available to play and Cline was ready to put the team on his back.  Cline hit two more home runs to lead the team to a 10-7 win over Washington Baptist.  Hutson struggled in his return game, but was relieved that the team was able to still get the win.  "It's a testament to the other guys on this team.  We have some really talented players out there" he said.

Playing with out Ben Skaug, the team rallied and showed some git and mental toughness during the double header.  "We are ready for the last two games of the year" said Eiji Fujino.  The stands were relatively empty  tonight for The Reformers.  "I hope that fan appreciation night will get the fans out to support the team" said GM Pifer.  Manager Justin McDaniel echoed that sentiment "Washington Baptist had a full crowd out there tonight.  I was embarrassed to have hardly any fans in attendance!"  Fan Appreciation night is set for Friday night at 7:30 PM.  There will be a collectible program given to the first thirty fans in attendance!

Game 5 Box Score and Season Stats

Errors Terrorize Reformers

CGBCNN Staff Writer Randy Pifer
Updated 4/25/13 at 11:45 PM

The Fightin' Reformers defensive third inning was too much to overcome and CGBC lost a heartbreaking 19-23 decision to Marietta First Baptist.  They allowed a historic fourteen runs in the inning and were never able to recover.  The Reformers were not able to get off the field due to errors from just about everyone in the field and P Eiji Fujino(1-1) was unable to get the third out.  "We were bad tonight, but especially in that third inning" said 3B John Michael Gibson, "it's too bad we all seemed to struggle at the same time".  Fujino was pulled after the inning and Stephen Donovan(2-0) came in relief.  The team seemed to settle down and make some defensive plays but it was too little too late.

This loss was an especially tough pill to swallow due to the fact that the stands were full of CGBC faithful.  Amber Mathis, who was attending her first Reformer game, commented on the amount of fans in the stands. "We outnumbered their fans 10-1" she said.  It is worth noting that Reformer fans did in fact outnumber Marietta First fans 10-1, literally.  Tom and Beth Kline both enjoyed their time, but would have liked to see the team win.  Phil Brown also was in attendance and the former professional baseball player sees quite a lot of room for improvement.  "They need to tighten up the defense and get outs" he exclaimed!

CGBC was able to score runs, but a crucial moment in the fourth inning may have cost the team the game.  With two outs and the bases loaded, SS Benji Hutson saw an opportunity to tie the game.  "I tried to kill the ball when I should have been focused on just making solid contact" he said.  Hutson popped up and the inning came to a close.  The Reformers gave up three runs in the top of the fifth inning effectively putting the game out of reach.  "Benji's at-bat isn't why we lost this game; we all contributed to that" said RC Ben Skaug.  2B Donny Mathis, coming off a career game, must have been reading his press clippings all week.  His usually steady fielding showed some cracks, but was still very effective at the plate going 4-4.

The Reformers are off until Tuesday night at 7:30 PM against Abundant Life.  Next Friday night is Fan Appreciation Night and the GM's office is planning some special events for that evening.  "We hope to have a full crowd.  Tonight was a very good start" said C Zack Blount.

CGBC Continues to Roll Right Along

CGBCNN Staff Writer Randy Pifer
Updated at 4/23/2013 at 10:20 PM

The CGBC Fightin' Reformers are rolling.  Aaron Cline hit a walk-off home run (fifth inning mercy rule) to lead CGBC to a 13-4 win.  Ben Skaug also contributed a Grand Slam in the fourth inning and the Reformers cruised to an easy victory.  Eiji Fujino(1-0), making his first start of the season, showed incredible control and poise and confidently walked away with his first win.  Fujino, the self proclaimed "Japanese Storm", did need some incredible plays from 3B Donny Mathis to preserve his gem.  Mathis made play after play including an incredible stab and throw in the third inning that had the crowd in disbelief.  "He had himself a ballgame tonight" said Jeremy Ice and Manager Justin McDaniel praised his work at the plate saying "he hit the ball all over the park".  Mathis was one HR shy of hitting for the the first cycle in CGBC history.

SS Benji Hutson continued his hot streak by going 3-3 on the night.  Cline and Skaug, incredibly, are both still batting 1.000 on the season.  The Reformers are leading the GCL in batting average and the defense is getting better each game.  "It is scary to imagine how good that team can be when they have everything clicking" said league spokesperson Wayne Fowler.  The Reformers are staring down their first championship in history and it appears as though the only thing that can stop them is themselves.  GM Randy Pifer was asked to comment on the potential he sees in this team.  "It is exciting to be here each game and watch this team play" he said as the team was leaving the field.

The strong play from Mathis will make for a difficult decision for McDaniel on Thursday night.  Regular 3B John Michael Gibson missed the game tonight due to a personal situation, but has some asking whether he lost his job by not being in attendance.  "John Michael is our third baseman.  Nothing changed tonight" said Mathis.  If that is just false modesty remains to be seen.  2B Zack Blount was key in turning two double plays and sees incredible improvement week to week.  "It is fun to put this shirt on and go out and play for CGBC" he said.

Fan Appreciation day is less than two weeks away.  The Fightin' Reformers are hoping to have a large group of fans in attendance.  "We may be dominating the league on the field right now, but we are last in the league in fan attendance" said Michael Moon.  The GM's office is planning a press release later this week to encourage fans to be in attendance.  "If basketball season proved anything it showed we have some loyal fans.  I hope the trend continues for softball" said Cline.

Game 4 Box Score and Season Stats

Updated Season Stats

Reformer's Hot Bats Carry Team to Second Win of the Year!

CGBCNN Staff Writer Randy Pifer
Updated: 10:40 PM

The CGBC Fightin' Reformers took the diamond tonight riding an emotional high.  Friday night they secured the first win of the season by beating Praise Cathedral and looked to go on a run against an experienced Highland Baptist squad.  Aaron Cline continued his torrid pace by leading the game off with a home run and the Reformers never looked back cruising to a 20-16 win.  Cline has taken his game to a whole new level and is taking his role as the leader of this team seriously.  "He has been ripping the cover off the ball the last two games" said 3B John Michael Gibson.

P Stephen Donovan (2-0) was shaky but effective   He threw a season high five walks, but was still able to get his second win of the season.  The infield did not help Donovan any with six errors.  1B Randy Pifer, 2B Donny Mathis, and SS Benji Hutson all struggled with two errors each, but were bailed out by the offense.  The Reformers, as a whole, continued their hot streak by hitting six home runs on the night, Cline (2), Benji Hutson, Gibson, Jeremy Ice, and Justin McDaniel all went yard to carry the team to the win.

CGBC has been experimenting with different lineups in the outfield and may have found the perfect combination tonight.  The outfield was a different story from the infield.  Michael Moon, Ice, Cline and McDaniel all made nice plays in the outfield.  "Jeremy made a spectacular catch to end the game, he was the defensive MVP tonight" said Eiji Fujino.  Ice's catch was the play of the night, but perhaps the most heart-stopping was a rocket shot off the left handed bat of Highland's pitcher.  Pifer, who was playing close to the line, was in perfect position to make the play, but wasn't able to get his glove up in time.  The ball hit his glove, but was able to somehow corral the ball to record the out.

The win over Highland sets a record for CGBC.  They are the first team to lose to The Fightin' Reformers in both basketball and softball.  Game number four is Tuesday April 23 at 7:30 P.M.  CGBC will be looking for win number three against Washington Baptist.  The CGBCNN released a reminder today to all the Reformer faithful that May 3rd will be the softball Fan Appreciation night.  The game against Praise Cathedral will be played at 7:30 P.M. and all fans are encouraged to be in attendance.  More details will be released as the game gets closer.

Game 3 Boxscore

A Rebound Win for the Ages

CGBCNN
Staff Writer Randy Pifer
Updated: 4/13/13 1:27 PM

In possibly the greatest rebound game in the history of Church League Softball, The CGBC Fightin' Reformers won their first game of the year by beating Praise Cathedral 23-7.  The win evens their record at 1-1 and sets them up for the rest of the season.  The turnaround was largely in part to six new faces.  Ben Skaug, Stephen Donovan, Thomas Richardson, Lane Hatcher, Jeremy Ice and John Michael Gibson all helped right the ship with big plays both offensively and defensively.  Donovan(1-0), making his first start, was shaky at times, but recorded his first win.  He was backed up by solid defense from the whole team and the Reformers were able to close out a mercy-rule-win in four innings.

In what is sure to be the answer to a trivia question in the future, Benji Huston hit the first home run in Reformer history.  A towering shot in the second inning that got the Reformers rolling and propelled them to a historic fifteen run inning that blew the game wide open.  Not to be outdone, Gibson followed in the fourth inning with a home run of his own.  Aaron Cline hit the first inside-the-park home run in CGBC history as well as showing tremendous patience at the plate by drawing two walks.

"The team came together tonight" said OF Donny Mathis before adding "it is a sign of things to come".  Manager Justin McDaniel was not in attendance for the game due to his 31st birthday celebration, but the team expects him to return Tuesday night for their next game.  1B Skaug showed some rust, but made it clear he will be ready for the rest of the season. "I haven't swung a bat in seven years, but it's like riding a bike."

The next game will be Tuesday night at 7:30 against Highland Baptist.  GM Randy Pifer made a plea to all of CGBC, "we need some fan support.  This is a beautiful park, and the weather has been so nice!  What a great way to spend time with your family and come enjoy some Reformer softball!"  Rachel Hatcher took in the game with her two young children and would recommend the experience to anyone.  "Samantha and Levi seemed to really enjoy watching the Fightin' Reformers win tonight!"  The softball fields are located across the street from Praise Cathedral at 3390 Brushy Creek Rd, Greer, SC 29650.

Updated Season Stats

Game 2 Boxscore

Game 1 Boxscore

Disappointing Start to the Softball Season

Softball season got off to a rough start, and has left The Fightin' Reformers searching for answers.  A 23-2 shallacking was a dissapointing way to begin the season.  Solid infield play from Donny Mathis and Benji Hutson was not enough to make up for the errors that troubled the rest of the team.  Poor outfield play combined with 4 home runs from O'Neal Baptist made for a quick night for the Reformers as the 20 run mercy rule had to be enforced.  "Bad defense and no offense made for a horrible start of the season" said Manager Justin McDaniel.  1B Randy Pifer made a crucial error in the first inning that cost the team 3 runs when he failed to field a throw from 3B Mathis.  It would have been the third out.

The next Reformer game will be Friday night at 8:30.  If there is not some dramatic improvement between now and Friday you can expect another long evening. Michael Moon, Lane Hatcher, Gary Davis, Thomas Richardson, and David Grey were all absent tonight and the Reformers were playing two men down.  It is hard to believe that anyone could have made much of a difference.  "We were outclassed, out toughed, and out played.  It was downright embarrassing" said P Aaron Cline who was visibly upset as he left the diamond.

OF Zack Blount was able to bring some smiles to an otherwise somber audience when he quipped "no autographs please".  "Sometimes you just have to smile and forget about what happened and move on to the next game" said OF Eiji Fujino.  The lack of fan support was a factor as well, but the team is happy there was not an audience to witness that debacle.

Softball Schedule

The schedule for the CGBC Fightin' Reformers inaugural softball team has been released.  All games will be played at the new softball fields across the street from Praise Cathedral. The address is 3390 Brushy Creek Rd Greer, SC 29650.  Fan Appreciation night is tentatively scheduled for Friday May 3, 2013.  All fans are encouraged to come out and support Manager Justin McDaniel and the rest of the Fightin' Reformers as they fight to claim CGBC's illusive first trophy. 

BREAKING NEWS

The CGBCNN is reporting that the CGBC Cake Contest being held on Sunday April 7, 2013 will have some major prizes!  The reliable, yet anonymous, source has told the CGBCNN that each category winner will receive a restaurant gift card, and the overall winner will receive a Kindle Fire!  So make sure you are preparing your ideas now and come ready to celebrate our one year birthday and compete in the cake contest for your chance to win one of these great prizes!

The official announcement from CGBC concerning the Birthday Celebration is posted below:

Our First Birthday is coming on April 8th!

Celebrate Covenant Grace Baptist Church's one year birthday on Sunday, April 7th after the morning service.

Come prepared to share your testimonies about the blessings God has given in the last year to you and to our church.

Please bring a covered dish for the potluck meal.

Every birthday party needs a birthday cake!

Create your best cake in celebration of the church's one year birthday!

Adult cakes and Children's cupcakes will be judged separately and prizes will be awarded in each division for the "Best Taste", "Best Decorated" and "Most Creative".

Softball Roster

Softball Season Starts the week of April 8.  Manager Justin McDaniel released the final roster earlier this afternoon during the Managers' Luncheon.  "We are disappointed that more women didn't sign up for the coed team" said McDaniel before adding, "we are just going to field a men's team this year."

Final Roster

Player/Manager - Justin McDaniel
Tom Davis
Gary Davis
David Grey
Randy Pifer
Lane Hatcher
Donny Mathis Jr.
Tim Riddley
*Thomas Richardson
*Michael Moon
*Benji Hutson
*Aaron Cline
*Jon Goforth
**Ben Skaug
***Brian Henderson


*College Student (will miss 2nd half of season)
**Tends to flake/extremely injury prone
***Emergency Sub

The competition is expected to be fierce, but Manager McDaniel sees no need for practice.  "If we aren't talented enough to roll out of bed and win this league, practice isn't going to help us get any better" reasoned the coach.  The CGBCNN expects this to be his final year as manager.  Superstar talker Donny Mathis Jr. was bold with his predictions once again, apparently having learned no lesson from the basketball season, when he guaranteed a championship this season.

"The biggest challenge this team will face is when the college students leave for summer break.  That means the home stretch and playoffs will be played without four of the better players on the team.  Losing Goforth will not be a significant loss" Lane Hatcher said.  There are also a few questions that need to be answered.  Ben Skaug, former college baseball player, has been noncommittal about his involvement on the team, and the entire roster is starting to question if he can be relied on.  Gary Davis and Tom Davis (no relation), who have acquired the moniker "The Davis Twins" throughout the clubhouse, are expected to add experience and energy to a relatively inexperienced roster.

GM Randy Pifer closed the luncheon by saying, "CGBC is excited for our inaugural softball season to begin. We are expecting it to be something that is talked about for years to come."  The schedule will be released sometime next week.  A press release with the dates and times will be provided to the fans as soon as it is available.

Softball Winter Meeting

Softball season is right around the corner.  The CGBC Fightin' Reformers are looking forward to capturing the trophy that eluded them during their inaugural basketball season.  GM Randy Pifer and Coach Justin McDaniel attended the winter meeting and fielded questions from the media and gave their thoughts on the upcoming season.  "We are looking forward to the season and doing something the basketball team couldn't do" McDaniel said.

Open tryouts will be held, and a final roster will be announced soon.  Preliminary rosters included potential all-stars Amber Mathis, Ben Elting's Mustache, and basketball MVP Benji Hutson.  "I feel if we rely on each others strengths and allow me to win the games for us, we will have a pretty good team" said a confident Mathis.  During an unofficial practice session, Mathis was hitting balls well over the pitchers head.

Highlights of the Media session included the following question/answers:

CGBCNN: Mr. Hutson, what is your prediction for the season?

Benji Hutson: I've never played in the league before, but I feel confident we are the best team.

CGBCNN: Isn't that what you said before the basketball season?

BH: I can't help that my teammates didn't hold up their end of the deal.

CGBCNN: Coach, if things go as planned, will you do something special for the team before the playoffs?

Justin McDaniel: Playoffs?! Don't talk about playoffs! Are you kidding me? Playoffs?! I'm just hoping we can win a game!