Quentin’s “Resident versus Correctional Staff” exhibition softball game the resident defeated the staff 13-6. Despite the loss, Warden Chance Andes said that he enthusiastically supported the healthy rivalry.
“I’m loving it,” Andes said. “The first game was a huge success, and I’m happy with the forward progress made here as we build camaraderie. The vibe is great; the music playing to an upbeat crowd who’s cheering. We have good players on both sides, but I want a “W” for the staff.”
The residents overwhelmed the officers’ team so quickly that the game instituted the “7 Run Rule” in the fourth inning.
“It was cool to see everyone coming together as players, where other labels do not define us,” said resident and third baseman Kolby Southwood.
Correctional Officers and staff valiantly tried to come back, but the game was ended. Following game one, participants played a mixed game. Administration and residents joined forces for game two.
SQRC Health Program Manager III, Tonia W., scored after she led an inning with a sharp single to the outfield. She credited her skills when she played at San Francisco’s Lincoln High and City College.
“It was amazing even though we got the pants beat off of us,” she said. “I called the residents professionals and enjoyed playing against them — that included when we mixed the teams together.”
Resident Lou Bernabei added, what mattered more was not who won but the game itself.
“As promised, the Warden kept his word to produce a monthly softball against the staff and incarcerated to promote the California Model,” said Bernabei. “In the past, it was not often administration would even attempt to keep their word.”
The games are part of the Reimagining San Quentin initiative, which aims to strengthen relationships between staff and incarcerated people through sports.
For the residents, the score was not indicative of the improved relationships between staff and residents.
“I feel it’s great to see the whole camaraderie coming under one in the institution,” said Correctional Officer B. Hart. “All work and no play is not so good, so having fun in a healthy way, like today, improves the moods of everyone. These events keep the spirits up so that hopefully no one feels down, especially with myself working in mental health. Everyone’s health starts with the mental.”
SQRC Public Information Officer, Lt. G. Berry, shared in the positive energy of the event.
“It’s exciting and I’m glad it’s the second softball exhibition game,” said Berry. “The vibe is different and it’s great to see the smiling faces and interactions happening between both sides. We are now able to see that more participation and understanding improves overall communication and helps break down barriers.”
Lower Yard Correctional Officer, E. Gonzalez, said he believed in the initiative.
“I think it’s working and good to see us moving forward by making prison more humane,” Gonzalez said. “When I first started, it was a different environment, so seeing the change firsthand in events like today allows us to progress towards a better future for all.”
―Marcus Casillas Contributed to this story
