LocalSportsJournal.com
MUSKEGON – Muskegon Catholic Central tallied two more Alliance League baseball victories with a twinbill sweep of Wyoming Tri-Unity Christian on Tuesday evening.
The victories also marked the 400th career victory for longtime MCC coach Steve Schuitema.
“The announcer said something and next thing I know, I’m doused with a bucket of ice water,” said Schuitema about the festivities after the game. “There were quite a few people there, maily for the game, but they made a shirt, i’m wearing it right now and I’m still waiting for it to dry out.”
Schuitema’s career record is now at 400-124, which started in 2009.
MCC Coach Steve Schuitema.
“It helps to have multiple coaches that you have confidence in that they’ll teach the right way,” said Schuitema who is assisted by Walt Gawkowski, Jim Gillings, Rick Murry and Chris Martin. “We can do a lot more because of them.”
His teams have definitely done a lot more than win a few ball games. In 2015, the Crusaders won a Division 4 state title. From 2013-15, his teams went an astonishing, 95-5.
“You don’t do that because of great coaching, we had some great talent,” said Schuitema. “I remember thinking, I’m going to get this job and I hope I’m ready for it.”
400 wins later and it’s safe to say Coach Schuitema was ready for the job.
The Crusaders won Tuesday’s doubleheader, 8-2 and 5-3.
Ace Anderson gave up one hit and struck out five batters in the opening game.
Bryan Convertini collected a double and three RBI for the Crusaders’ offense, while Bode Zygmuntowski had two runs and four stolen bases. Jansen Cook reached base in all three of his at-bats and scored two runs.
In the nightcap, Colton Lawson allowed four hits and struck out two batters.
Convertini recorded a hit and two RBI at the plate. Henry Rosema chipped in a single and an RBI.
Muskegon Catholic Central (14-8-1, 10-2) will travel to Tri-Unity Christian to close out the three-game series.
