It was All-Star weekend across the Twin Cities last weekend as the MYAS All-Star Series and the Rising Stars Showcase were held at multiple locations. In all, over 700 players from 51 communities took part in what has become a destination event for both players and coaches.
“We had a ton of fun” said Ryan Rassett who coached the 15AA Central team at the Andover High School fields. “It was a great way to finish off the season and I could see all the coaches having fun with the kids. Great atmosphere.”
For the record, Rassett’s Central team beat the East team 9-6 in their first game before losing 8-7 to Northwest in the nightcap. Eric Leigh from Champlin smacked a two-run double that sparked Central’s win over East. On the day, Leigh was 2 for 5 with 2 RBI and two walks. Meanwhile it was Anoka’s Marshal Rassett leading the way on the mound for Central, working 3 innings, no hits, 5 strikeouts and a save in the win over East.
Photo by Marilyn Indahl
Of course for Ryan, the day was that much better coaching his son Marshal who had an outstanding day on the mound. “It was a great experience to see him against the other top players in the league. He was up for the challenge which made it more exciting,” he said.
In the 14/15a All-Star Series the West All-Stars posted a pair of victories for head coach Marc Grove. “ It’s a joy to watch players from four teams come together as one team for one day and make new friendships.” And of course winning helps.
In their first game, the West beat the Central All-Stars 8-6 behind the pitching of Jacob Olsen, Will Severson and Logan Day. In game two it was the big bats of Jack Kelsey and Evan Heuer who both tripled as the West rolled over the East 14-4.
“ This is a group of young men who know how to play baseball” said Grove. “ It’s a day the coaches and players will not forget.”
Other 14/15a matchups saw the Northwest All-Stars knock off the East team 11-9 while the Central All-Stars bounced Northwest 14-7. Isaac Daluge(Becker), Gavin Hauth(Zimmerman), JD Stolp(Elk River), Sam Renczykowski(STMA), and Mason Nevala(Becker) pitched 5 straight scoreless innings for the Northwest in their win over the East.
“The best part was just letting the boys have fun with no pressure on winning, and forming new friendships with players they played against during league play” said Northwest coach Aaron Schnitzler.
For Schnitzler and his son Eliot it was a repeat performance having coached and played in the All-Star Series the last couple of years. And it’s something the father-son combo won’t soon forget.
“No matter how he (Eliot) does in the game, I always have great pride in watching him compete as hard as he can in each game and giving it his all.”
Same could be said for 14/15a East Coach Rob Mack who’s team split their two games. It was all about the kids and the all-star experience. “My players were true all stars which made coaching for me a breeze. The best part is always getting to share these experiences with my son.” Mack continued “I would completely recommend a coach to be a part of this experience. Especially if your son is playing.”
The common theme for all-star coaches and players throughout the day? Coach Aaron Schintzler may have said it best “Just a day to play baseball and have fun.”
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