River Dawgs open season with win

The 12U Florida River Dawgs opened the fall season by winning the Labor Day Beach Bash Tournament in Naples.

The River Dawgs went 1-1 in pool play to capture the No. 4 seed in bracket play. The team opened bracket play Sept. 2 with a 17-2 victory over the Collier Knights. Rob Arakel allowed two runs on five hits and Caleb Whitson drove in the winning run, as the River Dawgs combined for 12 hits.

The team followed its win with a 4-2 victory over the Iron Pigs in the semifinals.

Finally, the River Dawgs defeated the Bandits 2-0 to win the championship. Danny Rodriguez threw a one-hit shutout to lead the way for the River Dawgs.

“I was very impressed with our play,” coach Scott Kolbe said. “We have only had one practice together as a team. We have several kids playing football and it is impossible to practice as a team. We are looking forward to a great season”

Championship players include: Anthony Squitieri, Mason Kolbe, Collin Goda, Ian McLean, Caleb Whitson, Danny Rodriguez, John DiPasqua, Hunter Bogumil, Rob Arakel, Camden Sprague, Richie Morales and Caleb Greer.

The River Dawgs return to action later this month in the USSSA September Shootout in Sarasota.