The Durham Bulls won its eighth International League Championship and a fourth Triple-A National Championship in franchise history this weekend in Las Vegas. While the former was a display of sheer offensive power against the best team in the league Nashville Sounds, the latter was indicative of the fight the Bulls have shown all season and I wish I had been able to travel there to see it in person.

Down by one run late in Sunday evening’s contest, the Bulls rallied to regain the lead – and add to it – in the ninth inning. Three outs in the bottom half sealed it and commenced yet another champagne soaked celebration by a Durham Bulls team.

Despite starting off at the bottom of the division, manager Brady Williams and his group of players kept clawing their way up the standings and found a groove about midway through the season. Doing so in addition to the usual revolving door of players that often accompanies a major league farm team. Time and time again, when this team was backed against a wall, the players found a way. Whether it be Tristan Gray, Joe Hudson, Rene Pinto, Vidal Brujan, or Bligh Madris. There was a “next man up” mentality to propel the team to victory. It has been incredibly fun to watch.

With that, it’s hard to believe I’ve completed my seventh season with the Durham Bulls. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that the Bulls have won four International League Championships and three Triple-A National Championships since I joined the organization. Just saying. All kidding aside, it has been a tremendous experience being a part of an organization that has always played a role in my life as a born-and-raised Durhamite.

As we celebrate the season that was and turn the page to a new one, I’m always grateful for the opportunity to contribute a small part to the success of this organization. There will, inevitably, be change, from stadium renovations and personnel shifts. Heck, I’m not even sure what the future holds for me. But I will say the past seven years have been some of the best. I cannot even begin to quantify the incredible moments witnessed and lifelong friendships made.

Congrats, champs 💙🧡