The Georgian Bay Giants were victorious in the 49th annual First Ward Falcon Club Tournament held last weekend in Dunkirk. Submitted Photo

The 49th annual First Ward Falcon Club Tournament concluded Sunday with the Georgian Bay Giants defeating the Niagara Snappers 3-1 in the championship game.

Winning pitcher Andres Gonzo threw the complete game, allowing five hits and one earned run while striking out 11. The Giants were led at the plate by Adam Buchner, who was 2 for 3 with an RBI. Greg Thede and Matej Rysavy each had a hit and an RBI.

Dale Schewyer was the losing pitcher for the Niagara Snappers.

The Giants had a perfect 6-0 tournament while allowing just three runs. Aiden Yarde was the round-robin Most Valuable Player, going 7 for 10 with three home runs Saturday.

Third place went to Dunkirk Fastpitch and Weavers of Rochester. Dunkirk was led by Ty Buck’s strong pitching all weekend, great team play, and Ethan Brunner, who was lights-out at second base.

Dunkirk Lakeside also made the playoffs Sunday.

Tournament Director Tim “Dopey” Wdowiasz thanked the First Ward Falcon Club for its work at the food/beverage stand all weekend, John Sliwa and all umpires for their service, the City of Dunkirk Parks and Recreation Department for their hard work preparing and maintaining the fields, and all the fans that came out to support their favorite teams.

Over the years, the tournament has been a staple of the summer with 2025 marking the 50th year of the tournament. Over 100 teams and thousands of players have competed in Dunkirk since the tournament was created in 1975 by Mike “Harvey” Tofil and James “Tails” Fafinski. Next year’s tournament will take place July 18-20.