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It’s not how you start but how you finish.

After starting the season 1-9, the North Branch American Legion squad fought back, winning three of their last six games to finish the season 4-12 overall. All three of those losses came against Chisago Lakes, including two last week in the sub-districts playoffs.

“We had a really good attitude going into the games against Chisago,” said Brandon Trampe, North Branch Legion co-head coach. “We were confident that we could play with them, and we did play with them in the first game. In the second game, we basically just ran out of pitchers.

“We certainly improved a lot throughout the year,” continued Trampe. “A lot of the younger guys started to play better. Defensively we played pretty well, and our pitching was a bright spot.”

Leading the way on the mound and at the plate for the Vikings was Jeremy Anderson who played his final Legion game last Wednesday. In addition, Ed Meier, Matt Warren, and Nick Aaland were also singled out for their efforts this summer.

“Jeremy Anderson pitched well and stepped up big. Eddie Meier played great defense and provided a lot at the top of the order,” explained Trampe. “Also, Matt Warren and Nick Aaland stood out. Matt had a solid summer. He hit the ball well and pitched well for us.”

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