There’s nothing like seeing a bunch of Dawgs frolic on a field without a care in the world except enjoying each other’s company.
It’s been a decade since Okotoks Dawgs fans got to see the local collegiate baseball team celebrate a Western Canadian Baseball League title—well actually 11 years, the Dawgpile in 2009 was one done in pretend-style as Okotoks wasn’t awarded the title until it was discovered Melville was using an illegal player (there is no joy in Melville...)
A lot has changed in a decade—hey even the league’s name was different, the Western Major Baseball League.
Okotokians got spoiled those first three years with three straight titles.
We were the New York Yankees of the league — championships became expected.
So in the past 10 years, even though fans continue to come out in droves, some of them, including myself, became cynical, especially after the Dawgs bowed out in the first round, sometimes after having the best regular season record in the league.
Suddenly the Dawgs were the 1990s Atlanta Braves, not the Bronx Bombers.
But maybe Dawgs bench coach Dave Robb was right — it’s kind of ridiculous to sum up a successful season based on a short-series which could be influenced by college students having to go back to school earlier, injuries or just a team with suddenly a hot pitcher or hitter or two.
Robb kind of looked as every year as a celebration, but this one just lasted longer.
He’s right and that is great in theory.
But as a fan, it sure is fun to watch the Dawgs win.
Congratulations to the Dawgs in bringing back the title to the best fans in the league.
