Seven TSA intramural softball teams from six airports recently competed for agency bragging rights at Kendall Indian Hammocks Park outside Miami International Airport. The victorious team walked away with a trophy symbolizing their skills, athleticism and teamwork.
The Miami Hit Squad hosted the three-day competition featuring the Orlando Thunder from Orlando International Airport, the Tampa Titans from Tampa International Airport, the New York Bombers from John F. Kennedy International Airport, the Puerto Rico Islanders from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport and two Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport teams – the Warriors and the Clippers (no, not the California basketball teams) in the battle for the championship.
The opening ceremony included a message from Miami Federal Security Director Stephen Taber, followed by the national anthem and the Orlando Honor Guard displaying the nation’s colors before the first pitch.
The teams were looking forward to playing over the course of three days, but Mother Nature had other plans. A stormy washout on the last day resulted in this year’s winner being determined by the scores from the tournament’s first two days. Given the weather, it was fitting that the Orlando Thunder took home the trophy.
Orlando went undefeated with a record of 6-0 through the first two days of the abbreviated competition. As their perfect record indicates, they were a force to be reckoned with. Miami Hit Squad, the local favorite, finished in second place with five wins and one loss.
Over the last 21 years, the TSA softball tournament has demonstrated not only athletics and a love of the game but also the camaraderie of shared passions – dedication to teamwork and the TSA mission. Each year, the event serves as a reminder that while the competition on the field is fierce, the real win is the sense of solidarity and friendship that grows throughout the tournament.
“Anytime you have an opportunity to play ball and couple that with TSA participants from varying airports, it makes for an exciting and rewarding teambuilding event,” said Orlando Assistant Federal Security Director for Screening Michael Silata. “It was a pretty amazing feeling to see the number of those who participated, especially the level of dedication throughout the tournament.”
Players and fans alike built connections and lasting friendships over the course of the competition. The Puerto Rico Islanders look forward to hosting the 2025 TSA national softball tournament on their beautiful island home, and the anticipation is palpable.
Laritza Puentes, Talia Montes DeOca and Ingrid Irvin contributed to this story
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