Bolen will be missed as Capahas manager

America's oldest amateur baseball team returns this summer for an extra-special season in Capaha Park.

Manager Jess Bolen has led the Capahas over the past 50 years. The decorated baseball man recently announced that this summer is his last as the team's skipper. Bolen's son Tom will take over as manager next year.

Managing the Capahas has been a lifelong project for Bolen and his wife, Mary. The couple invested much of their lives at the field and raised the needed funds so the team can compete in tournaments. The team played in 34 consecutive National Baseball Congress World Series tournaments.

Bolen has a record of 1,499-406 with the Capahas.

The history of the Capahas goes beyond the Bolen family. The team began in 1894. Many talented players have been in the program, some local and others who played for Southeast Missouri State University during the summer.

Several local sponsors have helped fund the operations. Burger King recently signed a two-year sponsorship. Plaza Tire and Kohfeld Distributing each sponsored the team for more than 10 years. Other sponsors over the years included McDowell South and McDowell Ford. The Craftsman Union also supported the team for a few years.

Last year was a transition year for the Capahas. Plaza Tire, along with a few local donors, helped keep the team going until a new sponsor was secured.

To all those who sponsored or donated at the auction each year to keep the Capahas going, thank you. Summer baseball is a wonderful tradition. Capahas baseball is rich with history and great play.

We wish Jess and Mary Bolen well as they enjoy their final season managing the team.