Snowhawks, Pukall Lumber Studs entertain a packed crowd with a fun game

The Lake Tomahawk Snowhawks defeated the Pukall Lumber Studs in a 21-1 contest Monday night at Snowshoe park. Despite the runaway score, the game was filled with big hits and exciting moments.

    Todd Hoffman of the Lumber Studs is out at first base during a snowshoe baseball game between the Lake Tomahawk Snowhawks and the Pukall Lumber Studs in Lake Tomahawk Monday, June 30. (Michael Strasburg/Lakeland Times)
  

The packed crowd was brought to life early in the game when the Snowhawks shut down the Lumber Studs in the second inning with a triple play.

“I can’t remember the last time we had a triple play. I know we’ve had them before, but it’s been a long time,” player-coach Jeff Smith said.

The Lumber Studs answered back at the bottom of the second inning with a double play. That momentum would not be sustained, however, as the Snowhawks went on to score run after run in a big-hitting, entertaining contest.

“They came with some pretty good players,” Smith said. “They hit the ball around but just could not get runs across the board — but it was a fun game and they were a good group of guys to play against.”

Big game ahead

On Friday, July 4, the Snowhawks take on the Chicago All-Stars for what is traditionally the season’s most closely-contested game.

“It’s going to be a challenge, we’re going to be the underdog, that’s for sure,” Smith said. “It’s a great rivalry.”

The All-Stars have an increasing pool of young, talented players, Smith said. Last year, the Snowhawks just scraped by with the win by scoring in the bottom of the ninth with a walkoff run.

“That was a very lucky day for us,” Smith said.

The Snowhawks play the Chicago All Stars on Friday, July 4 at Snowshoe Park, followed by fireworks. First pitch is at 7:30 p.m., but attendees should plan on arriving early.

“Get your seats established early on in the morning,” Smith said. “Be prepared for a good game and fireworks afterward. There will be a lot of homemade pies and they’ll probably sell out fast.”

Michael Strasburg may be reached at [email protected].