In the Niagara Power’s 2nd season since their return to the Falls, they claimed not only the first-place title of the regular season, but also finished as the NYCBL’s champions. This was the first championship to come to Niagara Falls, New York since 1993. 

The Power, coached last season by Arthur Stenburg, boasted an overall record of 34 wins and 12 losses. The team featured 5 all stars: pitchers Joe Barbario (Canisius College) and Eric Johnson (NCCC), outfielders Eric Wentz (Kent State) and Adam Purdy, and infielder Noah Almond (Barton College). Wentz led the NYCBL in batting average with a .385 and was third in RBI at 28 and triples with 4. Purdy’s .359 batting average was 5^th in the NYCBL. Noah Almond also notably was 5^th in the league in homeruns, with 4 for the season. Max Alers was tied for 2^nd in pitching wins with 4.

The Power’s final win over the Cortland Crush 2 games to none in the championship series on July 27th and 28th sealed a sweet ending to the program’s 2019 campaign and earned them the title of NYCBL Champions, but this was not achieved by just the players alone. A team of 16 Niagara University student interns under the direction of Dr. Patrick Tutka were the operating force behind the championship program. Students ran the show—from concessions, to social media, to ticketing, announcing, scoring, music, cleanup, and promotions.

“The championship was 2 years’ worth of hard work,” Power director, Dr. Patrick Tutka said. “It was fun to watch the players celebrate, but it was just as fun to see the interns get to celebrate and hold the trophy. Most seasons don’t end with a championship, so it’s every bit as valuable to see the interns’ hard work also pay off. It’s what this is all about.”

In addition to their on-field success, the Niagara Power program had a powerful presence in the Niagara Falls community. Lewiston Porter Elementary and Middle School Pep Rallies, Niagara Police Athletic League Kids Free Play Days and the Niagara Falls Memorial Day Parade all were geared towards serving the supporting fans around the team.

On Sunday June 30th, the Niagara Power players and staff visited the Miracle League in Grand Island, NY. This league offers and opportunity for individuals of different abilities and ages to enjoy baseball on an accommodating field. Power players were able to share the game they love with the Miracle League players.

The 2019 NYCBL champions are gearing up for another season at Sal Maglie Stadium and ticket sales are starting now. On June 2^nd, 2020, the Power will return to Sal Maglie for their season opener. The full schedule is available on the Niagara Power Website.

Season tickets to see your Niagara Power this summer are $50 for adults and $20 for seniors and students 13 and older. Family pack tickets are on sale for $100. Kids 12 and under are always free. If you are looking to partner or advertise with Niagara Power Baseball for the 2020 season, contact Dr. Patrick Tutka at (716)286-8653.

Also, check in with the Power on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for information about the upcoming season, player commitments, and everything Niagara Power Baseball.