Front Row left to right:
Kyle Ulriksen, Brittany Corbett, Chelsea Joa, Nicole Haeusler, Jaz Pshebnicki, Sydney Glauser, Katie Wells, Ian Haeusler
The Humboldt Juice Pigs made their mark at the World Series Slow Pitch tournament in Kamloops, BC, bringing home a second-place finish in Division D and plenty of memories to go with it.
“It was a pretty good feeling,” said player-coach Brad Haeusler. “Seven new players this year, so we weren’t knowing what to expect. But yeah, it was a long battle, but coming to second place, we were all pretty happy.”
The finish marks a step up from past years. “Two years ago, we were 4th, so we stepped it up,” Haeusler added.
The team’s determination shone after a tough playoff loss. “We knew it was do or die then,” Brad said. “So just keep on winning or go home.”
Off the field, the team celebrated together at least most of them. “Some had to go home for personal reasons, but the team went out for supper and stuff,” Brad explained with a smile.
The group’s bond helped fuel their success. “Everyone’s always pretty positive. Everyone makes fun of each other and stuff, so that always helps, keeps the momentum going,” Brad said. That bond even came with a few inside jokes, as his cousin Ian chimed in, laughing about nicknames like “Beefcake” making their way through the dugout.
For Brad, the achievement was a proud one, but also motivation to keep going. “Personally, it feels pretty good, but still, we still want that first place finish. So hopefully get back there next year again and try all over again,” he said.
The Haeusler's agreed the atmosphere in Kamloops was something special. “Experience of a lifetime,” Brad said without hesitation. Ian added, “That’s probably the best you’ll ever see out there. It’s phenomenal when you go up there.”
The players were also grateful for the support from back home, with family, friends, and fans following along online. “It’s always nice seeing how many people are tuning in to watch us and stuff and giving us congrats. Always helps and always makes the person feel better,” Brad said.
With memories, laughs, and a strong finish behind them, the Juice Pigs are already looking ahead to next season and the chase for that top spot.
Plus, this weekend there are male and female provincial tournaments in Warman. Good Luck to all the players.