A Night to Remember in Gezer

The significance of Canada's 11-0 win over Cuba at Gezer Field extended far beyond the scoreboard.

Played at a softball oasis otherwise surrounded by desert, Tuesday night's game embodied the essence of what Maccabi is all about. It's about respect, love and honour - for our softball brethren, for the game we play, and especially for our families.

Prior to the game, a moment of silence was held in honour of Howie Osterer, who, after making aliyah, dedicated his life to building the game of baseball in Israel. Howie died suddenly while umpiring the game he loved at Gezer Field on November 11, 2014.

(PHOTO - Left to right: Dan Osterer, Jacob Osterer, Robbie Osterer, Stephen Osterer)

His memory was honoured last night by his four nephews - Stephen, Jacob, Dan and Robbie - who currently play for Team Canada Men's Open team.

One of Howie's brothers, Murray Osterer (father of Stephen and Jacob), was also in attendance at last night's game. Softball certainly runs in the Osterer family; Murray was a member of the Canadian team that took home silver at the 1985 Maccabi Games over 30 years ago.

This game was special. The four Osterer boys were placed one through four at the top of the batting lineup by Head Coach Dan Berlin, a gesture to the first time in our softball program's history that four family members have ever been represented on the same team at a Maccabi Games.

And the Osterer's responded in the only way they know how - by crushing the ball. With the score 1-0 in the third inning, Dan Osterer delivered a grand slam that captured the evening's emotion while ultimately securing the win for his team - and family. Dan's brother, Robbie, and Jacob preceded Dan's home run with their first career Maccabi hits. Just as the sun was setting, Stephen recorded the final out in centre field to seal the victory.

In the end, the Osterer boys provided a beautiful and fitting tribute to their uncle, on a night at Gezer that won't soon be forgotten.