As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, young baseball fans across the Island are starting the count-down to opening day. But in this case, the Mets and the Yankees aren’t the ones stepping up to the plate. On April 5th, hundreds of kids across Staten Island will be dusting off their cleats in anticipation of Little League’s 75th annual opening day.
America’s Favorite Pastime
To me, joining a Little League team (or any other youth sport organization, for that matter) is a great way for families to have fun together and connect with their community, all while participating in an activity that is both healthy and teaches life-long skills.
But there is something about Little League that seems to make it stand out from other sports. Perhaps it is the fact that baseball is one of America’s favorite pastimes and favorite games. Maybe it is the fact Little League Baseball was one of the first youth sports organizations to be founded. Or, it could be that Little League and baseball conjure up fond memories of family and community.
Needless to say, if you plan on joining a Staten Island Little League team, you’re also going to be welcomed into a whole new family and community. Little League is a sport where parent and family participation is encouraged, and perhaps in some leagues, is mandatory. Most teams will require parents to dedicate at least a small portion of their time on the field in preparation for opening day, helping at the concession stands, keeping score, or with closing things up at the end of the season.
No matter what your level of involvement, you’re sure to spend countless hours at the field. Little League offers families with a way to connect and gives kids a place to play America’s favorite game. It is also a great way for local businesses to support the youth of their community by sponsoring such a worthwhile program.
Staten Island Teams
On Staten Island, the Little League team organization you register for is based on your home address. If you’re interested in enrolling for this year, there may still be availability on your local team. Below is a list of some of the Staten Island Little League programs:
- East Shore Little League
- Great Kills Little League
- Mid Island Little League: Mid Island is celebrating their 50th anniversary of being Little League World Series Champions this year!
- South Shore Little League
- Snug Harbor Little League
- Westerleigh Little Guys and Gals
- West Shore Little League
“Take me out to the Ball Game…”
While we’re on the subject, don’t forget about Staten Island’s “Baby Bombers,” the Staten Island Yankees, set to take the field this June. Celebrating their 15th season this year, Richmond County Bank Ballpark has even more to offer this year, with the addition of a 6-foot high by 189-foot long LED video display, which will provide fans with an even more unique entertainment experience during games.
I hope that you’ll take advantage of the many opportunities to support Staten Island youth programs this spring by heading out to a ball game. They’re free, fun, entertaining, and best of all, a great way to enjoy springtime on Staten Island.
If you are looking to buy a home on Staten Island and want to know more, please don’t hesitate to contact me on Facebook or Twitter. Even better, my website is full of helpful information about the different North Shore neighborhoods, local businesses, news and events. Don’t forget to check out North Shore Buzz for video interviews and home-buying tips.
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I hope to meet up with you soon!