Messenger photo by Britt Kudla: Senior Maggie Elsbecker of Fort Dodge steals second base during the regular season at Rogers Park.

The natural tendency is to assume there is some sort of unspoken “rivalry” within our city limits between Fort Dodge and St. Edmond.

I’ve honestly always believed the narrative is driven more by adults than kids, and isn’t nearly as prevalent as its perception. I think back to my time as a Dodger athlete, and all of the friends I had who were Gaels. Many are still buddies of mine to this day. We played ball together growing up, and didn’t really worry about each other’s backgrounds or where we would someday be competing as high schoolers.

There is, of course, always going to be a desire to “one up” your neighbor. Nothing wrong with that, especially in sports. Friendly competition is much better — and more productive — than toxic banter.

I’ve used this column space before to encourage Fort Dodge and St. Edmond to play each other in as many sports as possible, sans football and wrestling. Yes, the Dodgers defeated the Gaels earlier this summer in softball. My takeaway? At least it happened. Too many of these girls know each other both on and off the field to let that opportunity pass.

When Fort Dodge played its Class 4A regional championship game last Tuesday, St. Edmond’s entire team was watching from the bleachers behind home plate. That’s a big win for the community in my book. This is a softball town. There should be as many Gaels as possible at the Dodgers’ state quarterfinal contest at 3:30 p.m. Monday, with FDSH hopefully returning the favor on Tuesday at 5.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla: St. Edmond senior Anna Kolacia gets a hit at Rogers Park during the regular season.

This is a special and unique experience for the two programs, who are state tournament co-hosts for just the third time in history — joining the 2006 and 2015 squads.

I think about Availa Bank Senior Loan Officer Craig Schlienz. Craig was my catcher during our Teener youth baseball years. I remember always checking to see how he did as a St. Edmond high school athlete after our athletic careers went their separate ways back in the day.

Craig and I both graduated in 1996. We attended Iowa Central Community College, where we had classes together. We both made our personal and professional homes in Fort Dodge after college. His child is, naturally, a Gael; my kids are Dodgers.

We always stayed in touch. I never thought of Craig as anything other than a good friend. It wasn’t about school colors or allegiances. He wants what is best for our town, just like me.

I’ve noticed Craig attending multiple Fort Dodge softball games this summer and cheering on the program. He’ll wear some combination of St. Edmond and FDSH attire, even if it doesn’t necessarily match.

I’m sure if Craig is able to leave work a little early on Monday, he’ll be at Rogers Park to support the Dodgers yet again. His daughter, Sophia, will then play for the Gaels in the 1A quarterfinals on Tuesday.

Take a cue from my friend. This week, we are all Dodgers and Gaels. There is already a mutual respect between the players, coaches and programs. Let’s spread the same sentiment throughout the community and lay those divisive stereotypes to rest.

Eric Pratt is Sports Editor at The Messenger. Contact him via email at sports@messengernews.net, or on Twitter @ByEricPratt