LUFKIN, TX (KTRE) -
The crowd went wild as champions from
50 years ago emerged on the Lufkin Panther baseball field.
Friday night's varsity game against
college park also marked the landmark anniversary of the only Lufkin baseball
team to win a state title.
"50 years later they still
remember you they still bring these old codgers out here on the field that what
it means because they still remember," said Mike Mayberry, 1st basemen
1963 Championship team.
16 members of the championship team
were honored at the game, first baseman Mike Mayberry says it was great getting
the team back together, like no time had passed at all.
"Most of us don't remember the
game, every game was exciting, we played from little league all the way
through," said Mayberry.
Before the game the men met with the
current team and gave a few last minute tips.
Head Coach Clay Berry says the
championship team is an example for current players striving to reach the same
goal.
They love seeing these older guys come
back and tell their stories and the things, the experiences they had during the
state tournament and participating in it," said Berry.
Mayberry says before the game the team visited
the field where they used to play and says the sounds and smells are just how
he remembers.
But even though much has changed, Mayberry
believes it still takes determination to become the best.
"There was a lot less
distractions for young people now there so much to do but if you're a baseball
player you've got to be dedicated," said Mayberry.
The 1963 championship team presented
current panthers with a signed baseball for good luck.
While the team is off to a rough start
in district they're hoping to turn it around and follow in the footsteps of
champions.
The game ended around 8:15 with
college park defeating the panthers 10 to 0.
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