Will Haynie (Cotuit Kettleers) receives the Daniel J. Silva Sportsmanship Award
Daniel J. Silva Sportsmanship award. The award is given to one person in the league who best represents strong will and the sportsmanship aspect of the game. It is decided by the umpires and officials who have a connection with players not always seen from the stands.
The award was given to Will Haynie (Alabama), having no clue he was even considered. “It’s a real honor. I actually had no idea I was being presented with that today.” His sportsmanship stems from his respect for the g
ame and respect for the players on the other side.
Director of Officiating, Sol Yas, has been presenting players with the award for 13 years. He claims it’s a terrific way to get the umpires involved and present an award to someone so deserving, “It’s an award highly regarded by the league and by us.” Yaz noted even through Haynie’s struggles, he never lost his ability to play the game the right way and never lost his respect.
