In the early 1980's, the Cook Inlet Bucs began play in the Anchorage Adult League, and would post several dominating seasons prior to the admission into the ABL (Alaska Baseball League). Several years later, they switched their name to the Anchorage Bucs, where they became a household name amongst the baseball community.

In the mid 1980's, one time ABL commissioner, Emmitt Wilson began an amateur baseball club, the 49ers. Their game plan was simple, stock their club with the top players from Alaska, and provide a college type program and atmosphere. They had no problem securing this talent, providing an extended schedule of 50+ games each summer, and a fair amount against ABL competition. After several years as an independent club, the 49ers began recruiting outside talent, and mixing it with Alaska's best. The team experienced only moderate success in the ABL, but did provide players from Alaska with an excellent opportunity for playing team, against top notch competition.

In 1991, the Pirates defended their state title, and repeated as State champions of Alaska. Led by some of the for mentioned players, the Pirates received solid contributions from shortstop, Wade Reuther and outfielder, Royce Mason.

It was during the 1991 season, that some dissention first began to settle in on the club. Some of the players were unhappy with playing time, always a problem when you stack your roster with talent, while others were unhappy with the coaching. Following the 1991 season, Pat Dolan left the team and joined the Crown Royals.

In 1992, the Crown Royals were much like the 1989 Pirates. In addition to several solid players like Dolan, and Trent Taylor, they also recruited a few younger players that would contribute, including former East Anchorage hurler, Clayton LaJoie.

In 1992, Mike Dapcevich sold the Pirates to Bob Yeomans, who became head coach. The Pirates overcame the loss of Dolan and defeated the Crown Royals for the State Title, played on Growden Field in Fairbanks. Following the 1992 season, most of the remaining stars from the Pirates jumped ship and either joined the Crown Royals, or other teams. The Pirates of old were gutted and left with a skeleton roster, never again to experience the success they once had. The Crown Royals changed their name to the Video City Studs, and began a saga that would last nearly a decade.

Studs Timeline

Video City Record Book