THE FIGHTING 63RD

"Above and Beyond The Call" In 2001 Ottawa Legion Baseball established the “Go The Distance Award” to recognize “outstanding individual achievement on the field -- and also leadership through exceptional commitment to the team, and winning.” This award is not handed out annually, but only when it is apparent that a player has gone “The Distance”… above and beyond the call in his commitment, loyalty, and demeanor, on and off the field of play. In 2001 the co-winners of the award were Todd Schumaker and Tony Ball. No one has earned the distinction since. On July 26th 2005, prior to the American Legion 1st District All-Star Classic -- with the unanimous, and enthusiastic, approval of the Ottawa Legion Baseball Managers -- The “Go The Distance Award” was presented to Marty Baird. Marty played four years for the Ottawa Legion, and during those four years, he never missed a game -- 150 straight games -- an incredible demonstration of commitment, dedication, and reliability. During those four years Marty has consistently been a team leader at the plate, hitting .369 with 192 hits, 17 homeruns and 132 RBI. On the mound he won 20 games while pitching 232 innings, with a career ERA of 2.52. His sportsmanship and class on and off the field has brought pride to his coaches and managers. Marty has been a credit to American Legion Post 63, his team, and American Legion Baseball. Marty is a 2005 graduate of Van Buren High School where he also excelled in basketball, earning League, District and State recognition. Marty will be playing Baseball at Bowling Green State University -- following the path of other former Post 63 players: Bill Burgei, Aric Christman, and Craig Menke. Dave Yoder GM Dave Kersh Asst GM Ted Miller Head Coach