BEARCATS BEAT GLENDORA 8-4 TO CLAIM TOURNAMENT TITLE

Home Runs and Good Pitching Bring Down Tartans in Championship Game

March 14 - Just to reach the championship game of this year’s Glendora Tournament was asking a lot. This tournament featured defending CIF Champions Northview, previous CIF Champions Charter Oak and always-tough teams like Bishop Amat, Diamond Ranch, Ayala and host school Glendora. This is one tough tournament to win. But there’s now another team to add to that list; this year’s tournament champions, the Bonita Bearcats.

Using a familiar method, the Bearcats defeated the Glendora Tartans 8-4 Saturday night to claim the tournament title. Bonita pitchers kept their team in the game while also contributing offensively, the Bearcats kept their mistakes to a minimum and Jason Plowman hits at least one home run. On Saturday night, each of those things happened again and the Bearcats are tournament champs as a result.

It started quickly as leadoff hitter Ryan Henley, whose father coaches the opposing Tartans, was hit in his helmet to start the game. The next batter was Corey Hare and he hit one out of the park for a quick two runs. Glendora stayed in the game and led 4-3 after three. But the Bearcat formula kicked in. Pitcher Nico Calderaro hit a big home run to give Bonita the lead. Plowman followed with his 4^th home run of the tournament and the Bearcats were up 6-4 with time running out on Glendora. Terry Paredez pitched the last innings for Bonita and stopped Glendora cold while his teammates added another 2 runs and the Bearcats won the game pulling away.

Evan Highly also had a big night for the Bearcats with three hits. Matt Gelalich, Paredez and Jeff Gelalich also made offensive contributions and a little credit also goes to the coaches and the large group of Bonita fans at each game.

Jason Plowman was named the Tournament MVP with his showcase performance in the tournament that included an offensive power explosion and a dominant pitching performance. Congratulations to Jason on a tremendous tournament.

The Bearcats will enjoy the win but only for a short time. On Tuesday evening at 6:30p, the Bearcats will play at San Dimas in a big game with their biggest rival. There are many other challenges ahead for the Bearcats. But for right now, they are champs and we congratulate the players, coaches and parents. Go Bearcats