SOAP LAKE - It's not always about wins and losses. Sometimes the learning experience carries more value. Such was the case when Bridgeport traveled to Soap Lake to take on the Eagles in doubleheader action Saturday.

It's been years since the Mustangs fielded a team, and as one might think, Bridgeport had trouble with the basic fundamentals of the game. But the team never gave up despite losing both games by lopsided margins, 25-0 and 22-0.

"Their pitchers really had trouble throwing strikes," coach Tom Beierman said. "But we weren't trying to run up the score, and in fact, quit trying to run on them mid-way though the first game.

Both coaches met before the start of the twin bill and agreed to try and make the games more of a learning experience than a competition as Soap Lake didn't field a team last year either, so neither coach knew what to expect.

Each team's roster is full of eight graders with little experience at this level.

"Baseball is supposed to be a fun game," Beierman said. "We really wanted to avoid anyone hanging their heads afterward."

The Eagles only had four kids interested in playing ball last season, but this year 12 committed to the program.

"The kids have a good attitude and are excited to be on the field this year ... especially our two seniors who are really glad baseball is back," Beierman said. "My dream ... our goal ... is to play well enough to get back to state.

The Eagles were there two years ago, so its possible to return the program to the big stage, but it will take a lot of hard work and dedication to get there.

Soap Lake is on the road to take on Bridgeport again Thursday.