The undefeated Monroe County Community College baseball teams of '69 and '89 gathered for a reunion at Blade's Restaurant on Saturday.

Coaches old and new, team players, family and friends came together to celebrate the wins, comradery, and sportsmanship.

Ralph Clap played short stop for the team in ’69. He said the program and coach made a difference in his life, on and off the field. 

“We ran on and off the field, had to dress a certain way,” Clap said. “Make sure our shoes were shined and we loved it. Whenever we get together, we always talk about the good times we had at MCC and what a great experience it was. It was an honor.”

Dave Chamberlain, 84, started the college's baseball program in 1964. He retired in his 33^rd year as head coach for the Tribunes in '97.  The undefeated baseball team players say their head coach is the one to thank for their winning seasons.

“He taught us how to play the game the right way, concentrate on the fundamentals,” Clap continued.

Dave Brust, the team's current head coach, said he contributes the strong program to Chamberlain’s hard work.

"Everybody always talks about how demanding he was,” said Brust. "The thing is, it always comes back to how much he loves and cares about each one of these young guys as young men. Ultimately, the goal is always guys come in as boys and they leave as young men and I think that we all share in that."

Saturday was an opportunity for Chamberlain to reflect on his time. 

“I've had some good players, I've had some great coaches,” said Chamberlain. “Everybody that coached in this program, now that it's 60 years, everyone has played in the program. So, they're getting the same thing they got 50 years ago. You know to see all these guys I haven't seen in years, some of them look like they can go in the field and play today.”

Chamberlain said his secret to success is all about becoming the best you can be and paying it forward.