The weekend of July 12-13, 2013 was a special one for the friends, family, and team members
of the 2003 Paul Laurence Dunbar Baseball Team as the team hosted a “10 Year Reunion” of
its State Baseball Championship. The weekend was full of activities that brought the team with
the most wins in KHSAA history (41), together for fun and recreation that was long overdue.
On Friday, July 12 all players, fathers, and coaches were invited to a “Boys Night” cookout at the
Dunn Family’s House. Burgers and dogs were plentiful and so were the telling of stories that
were created over 10 years ago, by a team that re-wrote the record books on its way to the
school’s first baseball championship.
Saturday morning there was a golf scramble at Tates Creek Golf Course. The golf was suspect,
but the company was great. In the end, Matt Troop’s long drives and Cory Hager’s deft putting
touch led the team of Troop, Hager, Ward, and Miller to victory. A special shout out to the “Old
Man Group” of Mr. Dunn, Mr. Morrow, Coach Ellis, and Radio Personality Gary Ball. The group
put together a strong performance that was good for second place.
On Saturday evening, July 13, team members, coaches, family, and friends were invited to the
Palomar Clubhouse for a catered meal and fellowship. After dinner, there was a brief program
that Gary Ball was kind enough to moderate. Dustin Morrow, Craig Dunn, and Rob Scott all
spoke on the fond memories of that Championship season. Coach Bart “Rudy” Roetteger was
the last to speak and did a fantastic job, but no one seemed to notice as his young son Davis
stole the show with his huge personality. Davis will definitely be spotted on a baseball diamond
in the near future. Large customized plaques were created for all players and coaches and
presented at the conclusion of the program.
The biggest takeaway of the weekend was the bond that is shared between the teammates,
coaches, and families of this Dunbar Baseball Team. In some cases, years had gone by that
folks had not seen each other, and to a fault, they picked up as if was spring of 2003 all over
again.
Thanks to everyone that came out to support the event. Make your plans now to attend the 20th
anniversary party in 2023!!
