Thieves Almost Put An End To Tulsa's East Central Girls Softball Season Before It Began

Thieves target a Tulsa school, leaving the softball team with nothing to start the season. The East Central Lady Cardinals didn't know if they'd have bats, balls or even uniforms when it came

Friday, August 25th 2006, 10:33 am

By: News On 6

Thieves target a Tulsa school, leaving the softball team with nothing to start the season. The East Central Lady Cardinals didn't know if they'd have bats, balls or even uniforms when it came time for the first pitch Thursday night.

News on 6 anchor Scott Thompson says when East Central coaches found a shed completely bare earlier this month, they were worried about the season.

Thieves stole everything from concessions, bats, and helmets. With their first game only days away, everyone had their doubts about the season. Word got out and the donations started pouring in. When the Lady Cardinals took the field Thursday night, they were fully prepared.

The players say the communityâ€™s generosity has given them renewed inspiration to play hard.

Hannah Philbeck: "I'm so surprised on how many people care and it's just a great feeling to know those people are there to help out."

Cheyenne Stokes: "we're all really grateful that there's people out there who will help us when we have troubles like this."

Tulsa Police say they're eagerly accepting any information the public may have about the burglary. If you know something that may help them catch the thieves, call Crimestoppers at 596-COPS.

This theft hit the team very hard, because all the equipment stolen was bought through fundraisers the girls worked on themselves.