Sun shines bright on baseball season in Wantagh

The Wantagh Little League’s Opening Day parade neared Wantagh Elementary School last Saturday morning, where a ceremony followed at Ciminelli Field.

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Siblings Maggie, 7, and James Kurz, 5, were excited for the start of the new baseball season.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

The Wantagh Little League held its opening-day parade and ceremony last Saturday morning, with many players dressing like the pros, including Drew Cafiso, Ryan Dunbar, Andrew Bonanno and Mark Russo of the Mets.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

Yankee Liam Casey who threw out the ceremonial first pitch in honor of his late grandfather.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

James Tullo and Shane Russo represented their team in the Opening Day parade.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

Wantagh High School student Lindsay Whiteman sang the National Anthem.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

Ed Ciminielli, left, spoke about Bob Grempel, at right, who was honored for his work maintaining the Wantagh Little League’s fields. Also pictured are County Legislator Steve Rhoads, Town Councilwoman Erin King Sweeney and State Assemblyman Devid McDonough.

Andrew Hackmack/Herald

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It was perfect baseball weather as Wantagh Little Leaguers took the field for the first time of the spring 2016 season last Saturday.

Before the games got under way that afternoon, players, their parents and coaches marched through town for the Little League’s Opening Day parade, which ended at Ciminelli Field behind Wantagh Elementary School. A ceremony followed, which included greetings from Assemblyman David McDonough, County Legislator Steve Rhoads and Town Councilwoman Erin King Sweeney. Wantagh School District officials were also on hand.

Wantagh High School sophomore Lindsay Whiteman sang the National Anthem. The league honored Bill Stroub, Bob Grempel and Mike Migliaro for their volunteer work with the organization. Liam Casey, grandson of past league President Marty Kelly, threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

There are 550 players on close to 50 teams this year, according to league President Ray Whitaker. The season runs through June 24, which is the World Series and Awards Day.