Camden – When it comes to traditional, community events celebrating their own, few do it better than Camden, New York. That spirit was on full display at Camden Yards on Saturday, May 7th, when “The Queen Village” of Oneida County hosted opening day ceremonies for it’s Little League Baseball and Softball programs.
The day began at 9:00 a.m. when each and every player and coach marched from the Camden Elementary School to Camden Yards, where they fanned out on one of the manicured ball diamonds for introductions, recognitions and awards.
Members of the JF Construction Softball Team had a blast Saturday morning at Camden Yards. (Photo By Jeff Pexton – Perfect Game Imaging)
Hundreds of family, friends and baseball fans lined the perimeter of the field, snapping photos of their kids, adorned in an array of colorful uniforms.
Geoff Ciani, League President, acted as the MC Saturday morning, while a steady stream of coaches introduced all-star teams from the 2015 season, as well as every player in Camden this season.
Camden won NY District 9 Championships at the 9-10, 11-12 and Senior League All-Star levels in 2015.
Members of the 2015 Camden Pirates Senior League Team returned to receive their District 9 Championship Awards. (Photo By- Jeff Pexton – Perfect Game Imaging)
Twenty two teams, ranging in age groups from 4 to 16 years of age, will take part in Camden’s Little League program, with more than 200 kids playing tee ball, baseball and softball from now thru the Fall.
John Gerber, with sons Riley and Mason by his side, tosses out the ceremonial first pitch to open the Little League season in Camden. (Photo By – Jeff Pexton – Perfect Game Imaging)
John Gerber, owner of Camden Collision, one of the oldest sponsors of Camden Little League, along with his sons, Riley and Mason, tossed out the ceremonial first pitch for Saturday’s baseball program, followed by a benediction and then the annual reading of “Mighty Casey at the Bat” by local baseball aficionado, Fred Carpenter, clad in his circa 19th century attire.
Fred Carpenter recites “Mighty Casey at The Bat”
Local twin sisters, Deshae and Devin Jones, veterans of Camden Little League Softball and current high school standouts at Altmar -Parish – Williamstown, threw out the ceremonial first pitch for the softball program.
Kaylee Turner, the 2016 Camden High School Valedictorian (three sport athlete, actress and musician) once again gave of her time to sing the National Anthem, much to the pleasure of all in attendance.
The Griffith Energy Minor League team is ready to play ball! (Photo by – Jeff Pexton – Perfect Game Imaging)
With one of the very best concession stands at any ball park anywhere buzzing at capacity, the teams took to the beautiful fields all around Camden Yards for official opening day action in multiple divisions.
Congratulations to Camden Little League on another very well done opening ceremony, which is a truly great way to open the season of America’s pastime.
Good luck to all players and coaches from The Mid-York Sports Report as you embark on the 2016 season.
