Published: May 09, 2008 12:08 am            

JUSTIN GRAVES: ‘Motorcade heading to Bill Shelton Field early’

I got an interesting phone call Thursday afternoon from a friend of mine who went to Hartselle High.

My buddy didn’t have anything important to say. He just wanted me to know he was coming to town today — and that everyone else in Hartselle was tagging along with him.

When my friend called Thursday afternoon, his exact words were: “The motorcade is leaving Hartselle early Friday afternoon, and it’s coming straight to Cullman High’s School’s baseball field.”

Just like everyone else who attended Hartselle High, my friend loves baseball.

And since the Tigers will be playing Cullman today at 5 p.m. for a spot in the Class 5A state championship series, my friend — just like everyone else in Hartselle — will be at Bill Shelton Field to watch the game.

There shouldn’t be anyone in Cullman surprised by this. After all, Hartselle is their biggest rival.

According to Cullman baseball coach Bryan Bowen, Hartselle-Cullman games are always one of the biggest gates of the year. So when the two programs meet in the playoffs, don’t expect to find a seat if you arrive late.

Hartselle has played a lot of baseball at Cullman over the years, so the Tigers’ fans know how much seating is available at Bill Shelton Field. And since Hartselle is out of school Friday, fans have planned on coming to the stadium a little earlier than usual.

From talking to different people this week, it sounds like this semifinal matchup could be one of the biggest draws in the state.

Everyone that I’ve talked to who is associated with Cullman High said they plan on attending the series.

Everyone that I’ve talked to who is associated with Hartselle High say they plan on attending the series.

I’ve talked to a few people from Cullman County who plan on attending the series, and I’ve talked to a few people from outside Cullman County who plan on attending the series.

Judging from this weekend’s matchups, this may be the best series in the state.

Both teams have tradition, and both teams have strong followings. Cullman and Hartselle both have talent this year, and both teams feel like they can win it all.

This will be a great series. But if you actually want to be able to see it, you better get there early.

        

• Click to discuss this story with other readers on our forums.