Mike JonesThe University of Tampa baseball team gathered with fans inside the Spartan Club on Friday to celebrate their 2006 National Championship victory. IFC President Steve Martinez and Joe Pronesti coordinated the event, which included video from the National Championship game and a few words from the players and coaches.
Pronesti came up with the idea for the party. He wanted to recognize the team for their accomplishment and have an event where fans could meet with the team and increase school spirit.
Fans got to see some unusual footage at the event. One of the lasting memories will be the antics of coach Joe Urso in the final inning of the game. The players got a good laugh as the normally stoic Urso was shown pacing up and down the dugout and chugging down bottles of water.
Urso addressed the crowd after the game was shown, mainly thanking everyone for coming out and supporting the team.
“This was a really special year for all of us,” Urso said. “The last game showed how much character this team had. It was a great finish to the season.”
Catcher J.R. Hopf is known for being one of the most outspoken players on the team, so it wasn’t surprising when he made some of the most interesting comments of all the players.
“After we started the season 1-2, I told everyone we would suck, but it was a dream season going 54-6. This is the best team I have ever played on. I can’t wait until we get our rings.”
Shortstop Roberto Mena did not speak at the event but had some poignant remarks about the team and the season.
“It was a special team from the first time we got together to work out with Eric [the team trainer] in the off-season,” Mena said.
“I was lucky to be on a team with so many talented and gifted players. It was weird when we were losing in the final game, but everyone knew Rosenbaum would drive in that run. We always had great faith in each other.”
The Spartans look to defend their National Championship this spring. The team will begin the regular season a few weeks after winter break.