Farewell and huzzah!

Douglas Dutchers Vintage Base Ball Club Captain Matt “Moon Shot” Gritter, right, presents Dave “Dominie” VanDerWiele with a plaque of appreciation for his work with the club on Saturday, July 28, at Beery Field in Douglas. VanDerWiele is leaving his post as pastor at Saugatuck Christian Reformed Church for a new position in Indiana. In the background is Saugatuck City Councilman Henry VanSingel.

State Rep. Bob Genetski, R-Saugatuck, presents a proclamation.

The Douglas Dutchers Vintage Base Ball Club said farewell to one of its longtime players and supporters on Saturday, July 28., at Beery Field in Douglas.

Dave “Dominie” VanDerWiele was given a loud huzzah! and a plaque of appreciation for his work with the club. VanDerWiele is leaving his post as pastor at Saugatuck Christian Reformed Church for a new position in Indiana. Saturday was his last game.

State Rep. Bob Genetski, R-Saugatuck, also presented the team with a state proclamation for its 10 years of playing 1860s-style base ball.

The team plays at home at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 4, against the South Haven Bark Peelers. All games are free.

Dave “Dominie” VanDerWiele plays the National Anthem on his trumpet at the opening of the Douglas Dutchers Vintage Base Ball Club game against the House of David Echoes Base Ball Club on Saturday, July 28, at Beery Field in Douglas