The 2024 summer season ended for the Sharks Saturday with an 18-12 loss to the Vermont Mountaineers in the first round of the playoffs.

Each round of the playoffs is a best of three series. Saturday’s defeat followed Thursday night’s 11-1 loss to the Mountaineers, closing the door on a tumultuous season.

The team began the summer in the cellar, starting 0-6 and dismissing their head coach. They then went on a hot streak, winning the next nine games. After an up and down end of the season push they were the final squad to secure a playoff spot, thanks in part to a weather cancellation.

The faithful coming out to the end. — Jonathan Fleischmann

Saturday’s contest was a continuation of Friday night’s play which was postponed due to fog. The Sharks entered Saturday’s game up 4-2 in the second inning and continued to keep it close for the fist six innings. The Mountaineers pulled away in the seventh to win 18-12.

The 30-run game was an offensive showcase and the highest scoring game at the Shark tank this season. Big contributors at the plate were Brayden Martin, Chris Hacopian and Andrew Yu. The three players combined for 8 of the 12 Vineyard runs, an impressive conclusion from the pillars of the Sharks squad.

Despite the final score, head coach Ryan Miller said he considers the season a win.

Bat boys are integral to the summer spirit. — Jonathan Fleischmann

“They could have packed it in early this summer, but you know, they fight. We had really good leadership this summer. We were blessed with a team of great guys and became a full family here. I think that’s the biggest thing.”

The season also tested the will and patience of the fans, but they always showed up.

“It was an absolute blast,” Coach Miller said. “I think the Vineyard is a very special place.”

Sharks general manager Russ Curran agreed.

See you next summer. — Jonathan Fleischmann

“I told the guys standing on the field after the game they are Sharks for life and thanked them for fighting until the end,” he said. “We would not be who we are without our fan support. Our growth as an organization is because of our fans and host families.”’

Coach Will Flanders also tipped his hat to a heartfelt season.

“The last parting thing that I would say is a big thank you to Russ and Danielle Curran for everything that they have done and everybody involved with the organization,” says coach Will Flanders.