Legendary high school basketball coach and former softball and baseball player Charles "Chuck" Mackey, and former softball manager Russell Franks, were honored with a celebration this weekend by the Batelco Radars softball team. Both men are ailing from sickness and the event was to honor their legacies.
The famous Batelco team that dominated the 1970s and 1980s in organized softball in The Bahamas hosted a reunion to bring back the old players, but more importantly give the two legends their respect while they are still living.
The event was organized by former manager of the team Keith "Muggins" Archer, Anthony "Boots" Weech, Audley Williams and Brian "Boldie" Gibson.
It was a very emotional time, because many in attendance had not seen Mackey or Franks since the two have been sick. Franks flew in from Freeport just for the occasion and was overcome by the outpouring of love from the many people in attendance.
"We just couldn't pass up the occasion to say thanks to Russell for all the things that he did for us back in those days", said former teammate Archer.
"We owe him so much because we didn't have time to get into anything because of him. He would pick us up on Friday and we didn't see our families again until Sunday night. He was disciplined but more importantly he cared for us like family."
Legendary high school coach Chuck Mackey was a catcher on the Batelco Radars that was formed in 1972. Mackey was an important part of that team, although he fought for time as a catcher with Winston Sherman and Lester "Slick" Gardiner.
Mackey went on to become a teacher, coach and administrator in the local high schools following his return from Mankato State University.
"We were an outstanding team during those years", said event organizer Weech. "We didn't lose a single game during a three-year period until Scotiabank finally beat us. But we were good and we thought that it was a fitting time that we come together and show our appreciation for our team, but most importantly for Russell and Mackey who are both ailing and not doing very well right now".
The original Batelco team was honored at the reception, where certificates of appreciation were handed out to the members who are still around, and those who have passed were remembered.

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