Brakettes Announce 2008 Plans; Continue Fundraising Efforts

February 5, 2008 - The Stratford Brakettes have announced plans for their 2008 season, featuring a July 20th game vs. Team USA, as they hope to capture an unprecedented 29th ASA Women's National Championship.

Despite financial concerns following the death of the Brakettes' long-time sponsor, David "Doc" Carpenter, the team is moving forward with plans for a 62nd year of women's fastpitch softball in Stratford, CT. Carpenter and his wife, Dotty, sponsored the team for 12 seasons, leading a Brakettes' revival that brought five ASA National Championships to Stratford. A passionate supporter of the Brakettes, and a friend of the game of softball, Carpenter passed away last June 22nd. The Brakettes remembered Carpenter's amazing support and generosity by wearing "DOC" patches on their uniform sleeves at the ASA National Tournament in South Bend, IN, last August. The Brakettes surpassed the California Sliders and the rest of the field en route to the team's record 28th title, dedicating the win in Doc's memory.

As Brakettes General Manager Bob Baird reflected back on the Carpenter era, he was clearly emotional. "Carpenter was a great friend to all, and we wouldn’t even be here without him and his family."

Baird remembered some of his fondest moments from the last few seasons, and drew parallels between the current dynasty and Brakettes' teams of years gone by. "The team has won five out of the last six National championships, featured many All-Americans and Olympians, and has done so with class. What we have now in Stratford is as special as ever."

The Brakettes are expected to announce dates with NPF teams, and the Dominican Republic National Team as well. The Brakettes will also host one of the nation's top ASA squads at DeLuca Field, just prior to the Nationals in Amherst, NY. The St. Louis Saints will come to Stratford as a pre-tournament tune-up in early August for four games.

Several other teams from the Northeast have expressed interest in playing the Brakettes, including the Topton (PA) VIP's and Western NY Xtreme. Dates will be announced in the coming weeks.

While the Brakettes continue to raise funds for the season, Baird was confident that there would be magic on the diamond in Stratford this summer.

"We are leading a more proactive advertising push than ever before," noted Baird, as he highlighted the need to continue fundraising efforts. "We are proceeding with the season as planned."

Click for 2008 Season Tickets, or Sponsorship Info, or call Brakettes Softball at (203) 378-7262.