Wilton Democrats 'Kick the Bucket' to Republicans in 45th Annual Softball Game

The Wilton Town Democrats and Republicans celebrated this Independence Day with the traditional Frivolity Bowl, a softball game that took place at the Wilton High School’s softball field.

The Republicans overcame an early Democratic lead, finishing 13-8 and taking home the “Frivolity Bucket.” After the first two innings, the Dems had a 6-3 lead, but were left in the dust by the local elephants stomping up seven unanswered-runs after a mid-innings gain.

“Matt & Joe coached a terrific game” said Al Alper, Chairman of the Wilton Republican Town Committee (RTC).  “From a batting lineup that backed up solid hits with big run scoring swings, to a defensive field that left seven runs answered, RTC members, their children and grandchildren, and Republican townspeople joined in to bring the bucket home."

The 'bucket,' picture attached to this article, is the trophy for this friendly game. According to Alper, the Frivolity Bowl has been around for decades: the first year on the trophy-bucket is 1966; if true, this game marked the 45th Annual Frivolity Bowl.

“The Democrats put runs on the board early, and they continued to score through the first 3 innings.  Thankfully we found our groove on field and at the plate with enough time left to play that we could overcome the early setback.” Alper continued.  “If it had been later in the game, it’s anyone’s guess how it would have ended.  They were formidable competitors.”

“This was a better game than last year where we won 22-0. The Republicans had good hitting and some amazing catches. We Democrats had our share of well hit balls and a couple of catches that surprised even the player who caught the ball.  In the end, the Republicans just had a better day that we did. We will come back in 2012,” said John Kalamarides, Chairman of the Democratic Town Committee.

Hitting highlights included three hits each by Joseph Favarolo, Chris Perry, James Longo, and Craig Knutson. Chris Eidt hit a second-inning homer, while Matt Zeyer, Arthur Dirocco and Joshua Tubb each had two hits.

Defense by the Republicans was anchored by First Selectman Bill Brennan at catchers' position, with Charlie Galardi sending in balls from the pitcher’s mount.  Rounding out the Republican’s offense was Arthur Dirocco, Joshua Tubb, James Longo, Joseph Favarolo, Craig Knutson, Chris Perry, Matt Zeyer and Al Alper. 

Some members of the Dems’ team include Andy Pforzheimer, Tom Burgess, Brian Lilly, Mark Ketley, Walter Briggs, Andy Garfunkel, John Hartwell, Tim Dineen, Mark Bradley, Dan Troph, Joanie Ketley, Cindy Fisher, and Brian Robbins.

Kalamarides said that Robbins was “a great second baseman.”

Information in this article was compiled from a press release sent by Al Alper, from some additional information provided by Alper, and from information obtained from John Kalamarides.

Update 3:57 p.m.: This would be the 45th annual game, not the 55th annual, assuming the first was in 1966. I regret not paying attention in math class. -Ed.