July 22, 2009

CRYSTAL LAKE, Ill. - Hey, Illini Fans! This is Bill Charvat writing from Crystal Lake, Ill. I am currently playing for the Crystal Lake Cardinals in the CSBL (Chicago Suburban Baseball League) and the Illinois Metro Collegiate Baseball League.

Playing in both of these leagues allows our team to play every day. We have had a great season so far with a record of 36-11, which is good enough for first place in the Metro League and second place in the CSBL. We already have qualified for our end-of-the-year World Series in Toledo, Ohio.

On a personal note, I have had a good season so far, batting around .333 and playing well in the field. Playing every day has been a great experience because I have gone through hot and cold streaks and have learned how to get out of the cold streaks. I also have gotten the chance to get in my extra work before games, whether in the cages or on the field.

Playing in the CSBL has been a very good experience. Our team consists of only collegiate players, but every team we have played consists of collegiate and older players. The majority of the older players have played in the minor league systems for years. These guys usually come to the games right after work. They may be much older than our team, but they can still play.

Watching these guys play has allowed me to see that age does not restrict you from playing the game of baseball. These players still find ways to be successful in the CSBL by using their experience to their advantage.

I also wanted to congratulate Brandon Wikoff, Dominic Altobelli, and Joe Bonadonna on advancing their careers to the professional level and I want to wish them the best of luck playing for their new teams!

Lastly, I would like to wish all of my fellow teammates good luck on their last couple of weeks of their summer seasons! Hopefully everyone finishes strong so they can carry it into the fall season back at U of I!

Go Illini!
Bill Charvat