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A Few Clouds Valley Stream Baseball League celebrates successes
Wearing custom championship T-shirts, players from the Valley Stream Baseball League’s top two teams were honored at the annual awards dinner last Saturday night at the VFW hall.
The Rays won the David Wright Division, for players ages 9 and 10, beating the Orioles 12-10 in the final game. They were coached by Jamie Lewin, Tom Marten and John Doncell.
“The kids really worked hard all year long,” Lewin said. “They love the game of baseball.” He added that the team is like “one big family,” and the children play very well together.
Capturing the Derek Jeter Division championship, for players ages 11 and 12, was the Marlins. In a rematch from last year, the Marlins beat its biggest rival, the Hawks, to win the division title. Coach Matt Roth, who has been leading the team for the past three years, said the players did what it took to win. “They practiced hard, played hard,” he said. “It’s been three years in the making.”
Players from both championship teams received trophies. Additionally, each child was given a T-shirt with the names of the players and coaches.
The Baseball League also recognized some of its top players and contributors. Darius Badger was named the Player of the Year from the Wright Division. The 10-year-old who attends Wheeler Avenue School played catcher for the Cubs this past season. He has been in the league for four years and said he always helps his teammates to become better ballplayers.
Patrick Loftus, 12, was the Player of the Year from the Jeter Division. He attends the Kellenberg Latin School and has been in the Baseball League for eight years. This past year, he played first base for the Angels.
He was recognized not only for his play on the field, but for his other contributions to the league. Patrick has helped with registration at Firemen’s Field and set up for the annual Opening Day festivities.
League President Bob Inzerillo described Darius and Patrick as two “very special kids.” He said the award goes to players who have good baseball skills, are good team players and show a dedication to the league.
