When you’ve coached 1,340 games, you realize how fickle one game can be. That’s why the Hall of Famer admitted to a little bit of nerves about Tuesday’s doubleheader against Luther. Most members of Dutch Nation seemed certain that their heroines would win at least the one game required to get Wares to the magical 1,000 mark, but Wares recognized that his team could play well, yet still lose twice to the very talented Norse. Central lost the first game of the doubleheader 4-3, but stormed out to a 6-1 lead in game two, only to see Luther pull within 1 at 6-5 in the bottom of the seventh. That’s when Wares looked to the guy in sky for a little assistance.

“I was thinking all the people that are here – from family, my mom, my dad, my daughters, from my friends, all the alumni. I said, okay, if there’s ever a bargain I can make with you God about softball, let me do it right now. I haven’t asked you for much in terms of softball itself, but let’s finish this one just because of all the people that came.”

That request was answered when senior shortstop Annie Sarcone fielded a Luther ground ball and flipped to junior third baseman Whitney Sowers for the final out of the game, and win number 1,000 was secured for Wares and the Dutch. Afterwards, all of those family members, friends and alumni that made the trip took off sweatshirts and jackets to reveal special “1,000 & Counting” tee shirts to surprise Wares, and the celebration ensued. Wares thanked every one of them for their part in getting to the milestone, and acknowledged that there are literally hundreds of people over these past 30 years who helped make it possible. This broadcaster has been privileged to be a part of the Central softball family for the last 13 years, and to a man that I consider a very good friend – congratulations George!

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