by Jeffrey Darrion Siler II
On the weekend of October 9ththe White Sharks of Almada showed their prowess by claiming the Portuguese Cup. The White Sharks earned their title as Champions of the Cup of Portugal by winning all games in this round-robin tournament featuring 4 of the best teams in Portuguese Baseball. Each year this tournament is held in Abrantes, in what is the last official competition of the sport for the baseball season. For 2010, this year’s Portuguese Cup saw one team’s decisive dominance.
With three wins in as many games, the Almada White Sharks showed authority in the tournament, demonstrating their continuing bid for top club in Portuguese Baseball. Despite periods of uncharacteristic inclimate weather the tournament was hailed as a success for the Portuguese Baseball Federation, which continues to grow and develop the sport in Portugal. As the Cup progressed, surprising developments arose in competition as Académica Coimbra, the defending National Champions, lost all three games of their Cup race. More surprises came as the Almada White Sharks commanded proceedings with emphatic wins over the University of Aveiro (22-0) and Bravos de Santa Maria da Feira (16-5). The White Sharks also defeated reigning national champs Académica 4-2 in a tight match. For the second time in the club’s history the White Sharks have brought the Cup back to the southern shore of the Tejo River.
Baseball continues to develop in Portugal and this Cup demonstrates the growing level of play for Portuguese Teams. Next year’s season is already highly anticipated as new players and re-invigorated teams will bid for the title of Top Team in National Competition.