Tyndall softball team takes 2nd place at tournament

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Veronica McMahon
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
The Nomads, a Tyndall Air Force Base men's softball team, placed second in the United States Specialty Sports Association Military Worlds softball tournament Aug. 15-17 in Kissimmee, Fla. 

Thirteen members participated in the tournament where they played against 22 teams from various military branches. 

"It was a fun time down there," said John Atkinson, 325th Maintenance Operations Squadron flying hour monitor and the Nomads team coach. "They showed heart, got dirty, some got injured and they all came out exhausted. It was hot and rainy, and as far as effort, they put 150 percent in." 

Mr. Atkinson, who has been the team coach for four years, said he was 'tickled happy' over their achievement. He said this was the best an intramural Tyndall team had done in a while. 

"The Air Force represented real well in every division," said Staff Sgt. Chase Adkins, 325th Fighter Wing emergency action controller and Nomads team member, "and the Nomads finishing second was a great representation for Tyndall." 

Their final record was five wins and two losses, putting the Nomads a runner-up to the Diamondback Tactical from Andrews AFB. 

The Nomads were recognized at the tournament's closing ceremony with a 2nd place trophy and all members received t-shirts. 

The Nomad's most valuable player, Staff Sgt. Daniel Daugherty from the 325th Medical Group, was individually recognized for his outstanding efforts, along with four other players who were selected to the all-tournament team. 

"This was the best we've played all year," said Sergeant Adkins, "it was a good tournament in that we finally 'gelled' up and played good ball." 

The Nomads have also participated in at least 14 tournaments and a local Panama City league. 

"The best thing was they played hard," said Mr. Atkinson. "I would gladly take the same team back to the worlds next year." 

The Nomads will continue to participate in the league and tournaments until late November.