A record first pitch in Huntsville
The Huntsville Stars sponsored an attempt at setting the record for the most pre-game “ceremonial first pitches” thrown.
Beginning at 12:01 a.m. and continuing on till game time, with a break for the grounds crew to prepare the field, fans, staff, players from both the Stars and the visiting Carolina Mudcats and even that night’s umpires threw a combined total of 11,689 pitches, shattering the previous record of 8,304 set by Brevard County in the Florida State League. I contributed about 25 of the total, every one of which I could still feel the next day...
The varsity squads played a half of football with Sparkman winning 24-7.
The Senators’ defense played well, allowing one long pass for a touchdown but otherwise shutting down the North Jackson offense.
The Senator offense was led by quarterback Matt Bradford and receiver Jarad Ricks, who put three touchdowns on the board.
Bradford passed for two touchdowns - one to Ricks who had six catches for 111 yards and the second to Cory Farmer.
Justin Pearson scored on a 6-yard run and Zach Hinson drilled a field goal with time running out to complete the scoring.
Sparkman opened their official season last night (Thursday) against Huntsville.
Bob Jones opens their season tonight traveling to face Buckhorn while Madison Academy opens on the road as well against Brewer.
Jim Sandoval can be reached at casandman@aol.com
