Announcement
2010 Opening Day... A Home Run
We want to thank everyone coming out for our 2010 Opening Day and helping to make it one of the most successful and fun ones in the long history of New Milford Little League. We estimate that close to 1,500 players, siblings, parents, friends and family members, as well as leaders and residents of our community came throughout the day and early evening to help us kick off our 2010 season.
It all started with our traditional parade down River Road to Connelly Field, led by Mayor Frank DeBari, Police Chief Frank Papapietro, and members of the New Milford Council and NMLL Board of Directors. Right behind them was Scooter, the mascot of the Staten Island Yankees, who are doing a NMLL Family Night in July, and they were followed by over 300 players ranging from ages 5-12 who were excited to get this season underway.
Once we arrived at Connelly Field, some of the parents enjoyed free coffee handed out by new league sponsors SmartWorld Coffee who will be opening their doors next month. NMLL President John Lignos introduced everyone to the players who lined up around the infield, and the parents and spectators there to catch the festivities. After New Milford Elks Exalted Ruler Ron Sabrezi presented the flag that will be flown this season, New Milford High School Juniors Meredith McCann and Shanen Munes opened it up with a great rendition of our National Anthem, Minor League player William Kelleher gave the Pledge of Allegiance, and Clinic players Evan Davis and Jack Heuer recited the Little League Pledge.
John Lignos presented awards of appreciation to our great 2010 Concession Stand Managers, as well as a "Family Award" to The McElroys, Service awards to past Board Members Bill Moskal and Rob Reis, snack stand manager Debbie O'Brien and longtime coach and volunteer, Tom Schreck. Also, a very special award was given to Joe Armeli for over 15 years of service to NMLL. The trophy for the 2009 Major League World Series was officially presented to team manager Victor Barrera of the Athletics for a 17-0 season and team sponsors Mary and Martin McElroy of Graphic Builders. Also, the winners of the Kevin O'Brien Memorial Award were announced — Victor Barrera (Jr.) and Nicholas Gallo. Congrats to all of our Honorees.
To end it all, New Milford Mayor Frank DeBari threw a perfect strike for our ceremonial first pitch and the 2010 Season was officially underway with all 26 teams in action throughout the day.
Thank you to all of the volunteers, sponsors, players, parents and attendees who made this a very special day.
Check out our album of photos HERE with more to come...
