Though the spring season was lost to COVID-19, Fatima didn’t let that damper spirits for too long, and Friday night, the team’s nine seniors were recognized, along with their parents, as the Comets played a double-header scrimmage.

“Overall, I’m surprised they played as well as they did, considering they were shut down for two months,” said Coach Brian Bax. “That just shows they did a lot of individual work while we were off. We had nine practices, and the guys had to juggle work and other things, so it was great to see them play good baseball.”

Lions Field at Westphalia had the feel of a Friday night game against Linn or Blair Oaks, with a lot of people out to watch the scrimmage.

“That was one of the best things about it,” said Bax. “It wasn’t just parents of the payers. There were a lot of people from the community that came out to support the guys, and I know it meant a lot to them. I know the seniors lost their final regular baseball season, but being able to hold a recognition night for them was special.”

Several players took the mound for the JV squad as players vie for starting roles, and Bax was pleased with what he saw.

“We had a few freshmen really throw well against the older kids,” he said. “I believe it shows our strength in years to come.”

Joining Bax for summer ball are coaches Steve Schnieders, TJ Keilholz, Tyler Plassmeyer, Josef Keilholz and Logan Bexten.

“We have a lot of experience with our coaching staff, and they relate well to the players,” said Bax. “It’s been a lot of fun so far.”

Fatima opened the year at Helias Tuesday night, and will face Jefferson City at home Thursday.

Games this summer will be played on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with some home games to be played at Rich Fountain, and others at Westphalia.