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Hanza, Okinawa Preseason Softball Team - 1963
Photo from John Gillis/Narrative from Ed Marciniak


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This was the original ('63) team that was picked to represent Hanza in the
Air Force league at Kadena. We also took on all-comers from the Army,
Marines or other Navy teams. Not many teams came back for a second try.
Ken Morgan and Mickey McDaniel later joined the team, making it even better.
The team record for all competitions (Kadena, Intra-Service, Exhibitions,
Tournaments) was 58 wins - 6 (or 7) losses. The 1964 team started off
poorly and the coach was removed. The final team record for the 1964 team
was 47 wins - 13 losses.(Half the losses came in the 1st month - hence the
coach had to go). Hanza had a two year record of: 105 wins - 19 (or 20)
losses. Two- ComFltActs Ryukus Championships ('63 & '64). One- ComNavFor
Japan Championship (team not permitted to defend the title in '64 due to
travel restrictions in place during the Vietnam era).

R/ Ed Marciniak



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