It’s ‘play ball’ time in Valley Stream

Last Saturday, starting their 72nd year of baseball, the Valley Stream Baseball League watched the skies clear in the early morning as the day blossomed for opening day ceremonies and games that began under perfect weather conditions.

With more than 400 players participating in the league, VSBL fans packed the stands, as they usually do every year, while league president Bob Inzerillo opened the ceremonies for the seventh consecutive year. He thanked everyone for attending, and introduced and thanked the dignitaries that were in attendance. He also presented the 2013 Player of the Year award to Theo Franks, and urged all players to practice hard to attempt to succeed as Theo did.

Inzerillo also thanked the VSBL board and coaches for the efforts they put into achieving results that demonstrate what an advanced baseball league can accomplish.

A number of the coaches played college baseball, and another coach played minor league baseball. VSBL believes in attempting to recruit experienced baseball personnel, as teaching is the most important part of the game, for as the players learn the game properly, they can excel in their accomplishments in the future.

Mayor Ed Fare threw the first pitch to Henry Reneius of the Yankees, and singer Tony Kateridge of “Tony K and the Boardwalk” performed.

VSBL expects to have another tremendous season, and its members look forward to watching the players develop into what is to be considered advanced players. Inzerillo ended the ceremonies and invited everyone to enjoy the hundreds of hot dogs, drinks and snacks that were available to everyone.