By Jim Newell

Review Editor

The Orion Hawks adaptive softball team came from behind to defeat one of their toughest rivals, the Waterford Sluggers, 15-12 on Thursday and remain undefeated on the season.

With the win against the Sluggers, the Hawks – part of the adaptive softball league for those with development disabilities, with or without physical impairments – have amassed an impressive record over the past six seasons, with only one loss and one tie.

In the spirit that has marked the team – a love of the game and pride in their team – the Hawks were down late in the game but turned up their intensity to come away with the win.

Orion and Waterford always have a competitive rivalry. Last summer, the Hawks only loss came against Waterford, 7-5.

The team plays eight games against area opponents, said Manager Beth Karassy, who’s been helping with the team on and off for 15 seasons.

Several townships in North Oakland County have adaptive softball teams, including Orion, Waterford, Oxford, Rochester and Clarkston, which has two teams.

The league is co-ed with players ranging in age and abilities. Everyone plays, everyone supports one another and everyone has a great time, so everyone wins.

The Hawks next home game is 6:30 p.m. July 25 on field #2 at Orion Twp. Civic Center Park off Joslyn Road. The Hawks final home game of the season is at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 1.

The Orion Township Firefighters Association sponsors the Hawks, who have challenged the firefighters to a friendly game at the end of the season. Details to be announced.

For more photos see July 17 issue of The Lake Orion Review.