Ode to Beaver Nation
- Info CBC
- Jun 18
- 3 min read
By Mark Garland
I’m not going to dwell on the outcomes or the circumstances that led to this extraordinary season. Instead, I want to express my most humble gratitude for the opportunity I’ve been blessed with to cover the game I love, and the team that has meant so much in my life.
Words will never express how much it has meant to be able to see a team that has overcome each obstacle with dignity, grace, and a tenacity that a mongoose would envy. This season, I have been able to see a team of young men grow, becoming better leaders, students, and community members.
The orange and black will forever be a part of me and all of them. Of the 300-plus schools I cover in Division 1 Baseball, no matter who I’m covering, the fans of Oregon State continue to make me feel at home. Whether it is on the road thousands of miles away, or back in Corvallis at Goss Stadium, you make me feel grounded.
I am blessed for the people that come up and thank me for my coverage, want to discuss college baseball, or ask questions about these unbelievable individuals. Hopefully, this season I was able to provide more people the chance to see the greatness and humility this place holds. That is just some of what makes up Beaver Nation.
There is something special about this place, and those who have spent even the smallest amount of time around these people can attest to that. I’m a bit emotional as I write this, but I know I can be open and honest with this fan base. I truly appreciate all the staff, players, parents, and fans that make Corvallis a one-of-a-kind destination for college baseball. Seeing all those who have given so much of themselves, while continuing to donate time, effort, money, blood, sweat, and tears; I’m privileged to say I know a lot of these tremendous people, and I am damn proud to be one of the many!
Despite many rumors (LOL), I do not collect a paycheck from this. I do it to provide the best coverage I can for this game. I love this game and will always love Beaver Nation, which has supported me from day one. It is something I do not take lightly, and my wife Rivka is the best partner and person, fully supporting my traveling and going to games. She continues to show me support--emotionally, mentally, and yes, even airline miles, so I can continue providing this coverage! Rivka constantly challenges me to be the best version of myself and encourages me to keep mentoring others. To my friends and family who support my passion and provide encouraging words, thank you more than I can say.
The people I’d like to specifically thank this year are very special:
>Scott Amerman, for donating time to come on my podcast, and always having a seat for me at Goss.
>Angie Machado and Jake Hedberg, for allowing me to come onto the Dam Podcast and share my baseball knowledge with so many Beaver fans.
>To Coach Mitch Canham, for always being a leader and an example for myself and the next generation of Beavers.
>Coaches Rich Dorman, Ryan Gipson, Joey Wong, and Brady Kasper, for the words of support and conversations about this game, their passion for the game, and smiles welcoming me to the ball park.
>The Support Staff Ryan Gorton, Zak Taylor, Brad Brown, and Hank Hager, for helping me provide the best coverage I can.
>To all the players and parents of players, thank you for allowing me into your world with open arms and a full heart. I have made a personal connection with so many of you and for that, I am blessed.
>And of course a special thanks again to all of you in Beaver Nation. I will never be able to put adequately into words what your support and following means to me.
The season may be over, but I want you all to know that this fan base and team is more than just the wins and losses. It is the community of people that continues to inspire me to be better and encourage all our student athletes. You are second to none, Oregon State, continue to hold your head high, as each of you are winners in my book. I can’t wait to see you all again next season.
*****
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