Facilitating successful Hero-transition by creating community relationships through sports
"VICTORY Together!"
After winning back-to-back summer and fall division championships in 2024, the Heroes Thursday Men’s Open team was excited to return to the diamond for 2025. Based on the Heroes’ recent success the team was placed in Thursday Division 2 against many familiar opponents from the previous season.
Week one started off slowly and we lost game 1 by 9 runs and then proceeded to give up 10 runs in the first inning in the second game. But the Heroes battled back and were trailing by 3 going into the last inning when the bats came alive. The Heroes scored 18 runs before making an out and ended up scoring 24 runs overall in the inning to ensure our first win of the season.
With the momentum of that massive Game 2 win, the Heroes swept the double-headers the next two weeks, including a walk-off win in Game 4.
Three out of the 4 games in weeks 4 and 5 were decided by one run and the Heroes split with their opponent each week. After 5 weeks/10 games the Heroes were in first place with a 7-3 record. And then “the rains” came.
There was an unprecedented 4 straight weeks of rainouts.
But thankfully, the month-long layoff didn’t affect the Heroes as we returned to the field with a sweep of the previously second place team. Troy Weatherholz had a walk-off hit to win the first game and we scored 10 runs in the second game to complete the sweep.
Week 6 is a rematch against the Week 1 opponent while Week 7 is another rematch, but also against the new second place team. With only a one game lead, the Heroes will need to win 3 of the 4 remaining games to complete the Heroes Slam – 3 consecutive division titles.
Week 7 is a rematch against the Week 1 opponent while Week 8 is another rematch, but also against the new second place team. With only a one game lead, the Heroes will need to win 3 of the 4 remaining games to complete the Heroes Slam – 3 consecutive division titles.
Week 7 featured the debut of Craig Bolin. Craig is a veteran who showed up at a Heroes Saturday practice looking for a team. As Tyler, our regular first baseman was injured, we invited Craig to play with us. After three rainouts, Craig was finally able to make his Heroes debut.
Unfortunately, the bats were cold for game 1 and the Heroes lost by 7. But we rebounded and went ahead 12-3 in the bottom of the last inning only to allow the opponent to score 9 runs to tie it up. We then went to one pitch and scored 4 in our half of the inning and held the opponent scoreless to win 16-12.
After the week 7 split we were now tied with The Warning at 10-4 and scheduled to play them for the title in Week 8. As we had beaten them twice earlier in the season, we just needed to win one to secure the title.
As visitors in the first game, we scored 2 runs in the first but allowed six in the bottom. Defense ruled the rest of the way as we were down 10-5, going into the top of the 7th. We managed to score 4, but the rally fizzled, and we lost 10-9. So now it was down to one game, “winner take all.”
Game 2 started badly as well as we gave up another 6 runs in the first. We responded with 4 in the bottom, and then the bats went cold. Each team scored just one run each over the next 2.5 innings, so the Heroes were down 7-5 going into the bottom of the 4th. As we were preparing to bat and take the lead, the skies opened; it poured and poured and poured. Within 10 minutes of waiting in the dugout, the field was saturated, and the umpire called the game. Since it wasn’t an official game, a one game makeup was scheduled for July 3. As the makeup was scheduled the day before the 4th of July, The Warning could not field a team and had to forfeit. This left both Heroes and The Warning with identical 11-5 records, but the Heroes had a 3-1 record in head-to-head play to take the division.
With three consecutive division titles, the Heroes expect to be promoted in the summer season to Division 1.
Heroes Athletic Association entered the Spring 2025 Senior Division 1 season with high expectations. Not only did we return the majority of our 2024 squad (minus Patrick who missed the season recovering from triple bypass surgery) but also added 2 new players that we thought would help push us over the line and take the title from the Mud Dawgs. While Brian White and Justin Allen proved to be outstanding additions to the team, both battled injuries (along with a handful of others) throughout the season and missed multiple weeks. The season was also marred by an unusual amount of rainouts that not only prevented the team from really getting in a good rhythm, but also led to a scheduling quirk that saw us playing Team Rage 7 out of our last eight regular season games, and if you count the tournament than the number was raised to 9 out our last 11.
With all that being said, we finished the regular season 8-12 and in 3rd place, but only a half game out of second. However, we finished 8.5 games behind the champs (Mud Dawgs yet again). I will say both Time Bandits and Team Rage improved their team, and the Division remains highly competitive despite the results. Too bad there were not a few more Division 1 teams. As far as the Heroes, we just couldn’t put it all together in a consistent fashion. One night we seemed to hit well but play sloppy defense, while on other nights the defense was superb but the bats were silent. The season started with us going 2-2 (2 splits) before hitting a rough patch for a couple of weeks. In the regular season, we finished playing good ball but could not carry that over to the tournament. In terms of the tournament, we played one of our worst games of the year (both offensively and defensively) in game one against Team Rage and lost 11-5. The teams bounced back in game 2 against the Time Bandits (who were fresh off blowing a 8-run lead in the bottom of the last inning against the Mud Dawgs) which we beat 16-8. That brought us to a rematch with Team Rage. Despite leading 7-0, we dropped a heartbreaker 15-12. And with that, the season was a wrap.
While I would say it was a disappointing season (perhaps I set expectations too high), I think the future is tremendously bright. Most importantly, once again, we did not have to forfeit any games and never failed to have at least 10 guys (though some weeks it was a challenge) show up to play. We also have more flexibility with guys being able to play multiple positions. If I had to give out a Team MVP (luckily I don’t), I would say it would be Chris Mariani for his all-around play. Chip once again led the team in Home Runs. We thought Brian White may give him a run for his money after a 3-homer night early in the season, but that was the it for the most part.
Once again, a huge Thank You to my co-coach Gino!! I could not do this without him, and he helps keep me sane with not being able to play and help this team. A special thanks to our GM Carl for making this all possible. All the guys really appreciate the support. I just wish I could have gotten more of them to order the shorts and bag tags. Lastly, a huge THANKS to all our GENEROUS sponsors who support Heroes Athletic Association.
Since joining the Arlington League in Fall 2021, the Heroes Athletic Association Men’s Softball Team has embodied resilience, camaraderie, and competitive spirit. In what became their final season, the team battled fiercely until the last week of regular play, clinching a playoff spot as the 8th seed. In a stunning upset, they toppled the No. 1 seed, proving that heart and grit can defy expectations. Though their playoff run ended shortly after, the legacy they built goes far beyond the scoreboard.
Over the years, the Heroes evolved from a group of athletes into a true brotherhood—bound not just by the game, but by shared memories, mutual respect, and a chemistry that will endure long after the final pitch. Their story in Arlington may have closed, but the bond they forged will live on.
As the dust settles on the Spring 2025 season, it’s time to reflect on a journey filled with grit, laughter, and just a few pulled hamstrings.
We wrapped up the season with a 6–14 record, which, while not exactly championship material, was a testament to our resilience. And let’s not forget our third-place finish in the end-of-season tournament—a glorious reminder that underdogs bite back!
The season started with a curveball (literally and figuratively) when we lost three starting outfielders just a week before opening day. Add in a few injuries, some scheduling conflicts, and the occasional “I have a work conflict” moments, and you’ve got a recipe for chaos. But through it all, we fielded a competitive team every single week, with close scores and even closer friendships.
What we lacked in wins, we more than made up for in camaraderie, sportsmanship, and post-game storytelling (some of which may have been slightly exaggerated). Whether it was the heroic diving catches, the questionable base running decisions, or the epic debates over base line violations, every moment was a memory worth keeping.
This team is more than just a group of players—it’s a family. A slightly bruised, occasionally limping, but always smiling family.
As we look ahead to the Fall 2025 season, we’re excited to sharpen our skills, stretch a little more before games, and maybe even remember to bring both cleats. With our spirit and determination, we’re ready to get back to our winning ways—and if not, at least we’ll have a blast trying.
Thanks to each one of you, the HAA Board, and all the Sponsors for making this season unforgettable. Let’s keep the laughs coming and the bats swinging.
The Vintage Heroes were moved up a division. The competition was much more challenging, yet, the D2 had some new young players to compete. Freddy Butts proved to be the most valuable new addition with his fabulous speed and hitting prowess reminding the Vintage squad of Troy Weatherholz. With quite a few injuries and an ambitious travel schedule for many of the players, the lineup seemed to change weekly. Regular Dennis K was much improved at third base this season with strong defensive play and a renewed and successful approach at the plate. Unfortunately, the Vintage Heroes finished 6-14 having too many innings of play without a run. Yet, the attitudes remained strong. As the playoffs approached, the team was missing 11 of their 19 regular players and relied on the faithful Heroes Steve Well and Paul Miller. The Vintage Heroes were eliminated by the tournament’s runners-up providing a strong fourth place finish.
Graybeards Fall 2025 – HAA Senior Softball Division 2 Synopsis
Well, the Fall 2025 season is officially in the books—and what a book it was. Unfortunately, it wasn’t exactly a bestseller in the “wins” category. After coming off a strong Spring Tournament run, we stumbled to a 3–10 record this fall. But let’s be honest: if losing six games by just one run were an Olympic sport, we’d be gold medalists.
On the bright side, no serious injuries were sustained—unless you count bruised egos, sore hamstrings, and the occasional dented pride from “creative” base running. And while the scoreboard didn’t always cooperate, our team spirit was undefeated.
Culinary Victories
This season brought some unexpected byproducts of greatness. Alongside our traditional post-game peanuts, chips, and cold beverages, we elevated our game with potluck dinners after late-night matchups. Highlights included:
Frankly, our batting averages may have been questionable, but our potluck averages were outstanding.
Beyond the Diamond
The camaraderie didn’t stop at the field. Some of our crew has already rolled into winter with the Graybeards bowling team. Rumor has it, our gutter balls are just as spectacular as our base running—but the fun times truly have no end.
The Graybeards Way
As always, what we lacked in wins, we more than made up for in:
Remember – “We are more than a team, we’re a family.” A slightly bruised, occasionally limping, but always smiling family.
Looking Ahead
Spring 2026 is just around the corner, and we’re ready to dust off the bats, stretch out the hammies, and get back to the field. With our camaraderie, humor, and maybe a few more potluck recipes, we’ll be unstoppable—or at least unforgettable.
Thanks to each of you, the HAA Board, and our sponsors for making this season one for the memory books. Let’s keep the laughs coming and the bats swinging.
See you on the field in the Spring of 2026!
St. Augustine, Florida Senior Softball Division 2025 Synopsis
It’s with great pride we announce that the Heroes Athletic Association made a great impact on the veteran softball community in St. Augustine, FL in 2025. Over two full seasons, the HAA organization supported the make-up of nine teams each season, directly impacting over 70 Heroes in the local area
The league is made of men and women age 45 and up, many of whom also play travel softball with Florida Half Century teams. The league runs two seasons from April to June and September through November competing over 80 complete games.
St Augustine Senior Softball runs two leagues in Florida’s St. John’s County, the Tuesday Morning Day League and Wednesday Night League (9 teams each season). A big contributor and sponsor for the league is the Heroes’ Athletic Association (HAA). Many of those players (average 40) are Veteran military and first responders. The HAA provides a substantial contribution each season that provides Veterans with financial relief on the league dues. This discount provides more opportunities for Veterans to participate and integrate with their local community, while continuing to provide that team and unit camaraderie they experienced serving the country.
Chris Benoit, the Florida director for HAA, continues to receive numerous laudatory comments from the Veteran benefactors and league leaders. They express their gratitude for the contributions, some relaying it’s the only way they can play and enjoy the community. Much appreciation to the HAA and all the do for our Veteran athletic community.
D1 FALL HEROES ATHLETIC ASSOC 2025 Synopsis
Heroes Athletic Association finished the Fall 2025 Senior Division 1 season in 3rd place with a record of 5-7. Mud Dawgs once again finished in first while Team Rage finished in second. Time bandits and Free Agents finished 4th and 5th, respectively. If I had to come up with a theme for the Fall season, it would be inconsistency. Our fielding was very inconsistent and, on a couple of nights, was not up to par for a Division 1 team. As for our hitting, it was not much better regarding consistent run production. In the second half of the season, the batting improved a little, while the fielding continued to be our Achilles heel.
We were without Chip’s services for the second half of the season which did not help with our “run production.” We identified another strong candidate for the 2026 Spring Season. Richard is a friend of Patrick’s and filled in on the coldest night of the year against the Mud Dawgs. He adds another strong lefty bat, and along with Sam (hopefully he will be joining us in the Spring) will further bolster our lineup for the Spring 2026 season. Once again, I will carry high hopes into the Spring season and fully expect us to give the Mud Dawgs a serious challenge for the Title. I seriously hope we have more than 4 teams in Division 1 for Spring 2026. Hopefully Brian’s back will be better, and he will also be available again.
Once again, we did not have to forfeit any games and never failed to have at least 10 guys (though 1 or 2 weeks it a little iffy) show up to play. Hopefully everyone will use the off-season to rest up and, more importantly, heal up.
Once again, a huge Thank You to my co-coach, Gino, as well as Dave Sphar, who stepped in and coached the last week because Gino and I were absent. Continued thanks to our GM Carl for making this all possible. All the guys really appreciate the support. Lastly, a huge THANKS to all our GENEROUS sponsors who continue to support Heroes Athletic Association. Now we need to reward them with another Title. I think I may have to use my secret weapon and remind the guys in the Spring with have not won a Title since I stopped playing. Shutting me up should be motivation enough to push us past the Mud Dawgs 🙂
D1 FALL HEROES ATHLETIC ASSOC JACKWAGONS 2025 Synopsis
For the Fall 2025 season, the Heroes Jackwagons were placed in Division 2 with all but 2 teams we had played in the past. At first glance it looked to be a fairly well-balanced competitive division.
Week 1 got off to auspicious start as we were scheduled to play late games against a team called the Squeeze. The Heroes were there on time and waited, waited, and finally realized the opponent wasn’t going to show up. We reached out to James, the league VP, who was playing on Field 1, and he checked his email and reported that the other team had folded and not only wouldn’t be playing that night, but not on any night this fall.
Moving on to week 2, we played the aforementioned James and his team Slap A Pitch. The first game continued the strong finish from the summer season and the Heroes won easily with a 26-5 victory. Game 2 was tighter as the Heroes went scoreless in 3 out of the first 4 innings and trailed 8-6. In the top of the 5th, the umpire announced that this would be the last inning and Slap a Pitch scored 5 runs to take a 13-6 lead going in to our last at bats. The team managed to bat around in the order and we scored 7 runs to tie it. We proceeded to 1 pitch and allowed 1 run in the top. Cooper and Jensen led off with hits, Mark hit a sac fly to tie it, and Mike Macrina won it with a walk off hit. It was a good start to the fall season. After the games the team enjoyed a tailgate party in the parking lot with grilled food and a few well earned beverages.
Week 3 had us scheduled against another familiar opponent, One Hit Wonders. Game 1 was very close with both teams scoring 7 runs in the first. The Heroes were trailing 15-14 in the bottom of the last inning. Tuong and Dave were on second and first with one out with Troy and the top of the order coming up so we had dreams of another walk-off victory. Troy hit a soft fly over the shortstop and Tuong took off from second. But unfortunately the shortstop made a miraculous over the shoulder catch and the doubled up Tuong to end the game. Game 2 had Troy pitching and we had two big innings to win a low scoring game 11-4.
Week 4 had the Heroes playing a Division 3 team from the spring that had a sub .500 record that was at least in the spring comprised of Manassas City Police Officers. Well for the fall season it appears that several police officers were upgraded with PW County tournament players. The Heroes lost the first 17-11 with 5 Heroes runs scored in the last inning when they had a player try his hand at pitching. Game 2 was much closer with the game tied 11-11 in the bottom of the last. There were two outs and two on, when one of their ringers hit a bomb over the fence. It the last of several home runs they hit over the course of both games.
Week 5 had us playing the Oppo Oppas, a Korean church team. The first game was fantastic as the Heroes played great both in the field and at the plate. Dave was filling in at SS had a couple nice catches in the outfield. The bats were great too as we built a 19-1 lead before easing up and allowing them to score 6 over the last two innings. I think this made us too over-confident as we could not do anything right in the second game. The defense just fell apart and everyone contributed to the errors as we gave up 7 runs in the 2nd and another 8 in the 4th. We ended up getting run ruled 19-3. Definitely a disappointment after how well we played in game 1.
Weeks 6 and 7 were against Big Flick Energy and The Warning. Big Flick was the team we dominated over the summer, but this was a completely different line-up. They had several D1 caliber players and won the first game easily 16-6. The second game started off badly with the Heroes not scoring and then giving up 8 runs in the first. We managed to get 7 in the third, but they got 7 in the 4th to make it 15-7. It was 15-8 in the top of the 5th when the Heroes had a breakout inning scoring 10, but couldn’t hold them as they responded with 4 to make it 19-18 going in to the last. The Heroes had the top of the lineup due up, but could only manage to get runners on 1st and 2nd before making the last out.
The games against the Warning were even worse as their D1 “subs” were even better than Big Flick’s. We lost the first 20-10 and the second 22-5. This was a completely different team that we went 3-1 against in the spring.
The last two games of the season were position rounds against One Hit Wonders. But heavy rain on Wednesday soaked the fields and the games were canceled. In addition, since it was the last week of the season and the fields were closing in three days, the league did not offer refunds.
So with a final record of 4-8, the fall season was mostly a disappointment. We had a few regular players unable to play for a variety of reasons (work, vacation, coaching, class) so some weeks we had 14 guys and other weeks we had to call in subs to get to 10. But overall the team is solid and everyone gets along and is looking forward to spring of 2026.