MIDDLEBORO — Two little words meant a lot to those who attended Battis Field on April 21st.
“The match begins!''
The message was delivered by the enthusiastic voices of the players on the T-ball team, marking the start of the Middleboro Youth Softball League's spring season.
These classic spring words were preceded by a parade where all teams entered the field. The girls were then introduced by team, followed by a team photo.
A total of 180 players from 14 teams will play until June.He said the league has been in existence for at least 40 years. Stephanie Hewins, Middleboro Youth Softball League Field Improvement Committee Chair. The age range of players is from 5 to 18 years old.
Erin Maher, wife of league president Matt Maher, said Opening Day will allow the girls to gather at the beginning of the season.
She said she develops her skills through league participation, not just hits and home runs.
“We’re teaching our kids a work ethic and coming together as a community,” she said. “They learn to be leaders.”
Skills such as “teamwork, camaraderie and support” will help them far beyond the basics as they move into the future, she said.
The MVPs of the day may have been the many volunteer parents who helped out in a variety of roles, including helping with the snack shacks that provided food for the children and supported the league. Mr. Hewins credited his parents with “giving the kids something to do.”
Seeing the energetic smile on my wife's face, the kids knew this day was a home run.
“I’m excited because it’s the first day,” Eva Cotti said. She said she was especially excited about the “bouncy house” that was brought in for the day.
Peyton Talish, 7, said she is looking forward to being a pitcher and catcher this year.
But the batter's box also appeals to her. “I like hitting the ball,” she said.
