On Saturday, Ashland Little League held their opening day events before starting their 2024 season of baseball.
The day started with their annual parade where the players and coaches march up Centre Street led by first responders from the Ashland Fire Department and Ambulance.
The parade follows Centre Street to 17th Street which follows to the Little League Field at Eureeka Park.
This year's opening ceremony emceed by Ty Wartman included several memorable moments.
Along with recognizing this year's players and last year's graduating players, a special moment of silence was held for John Hood, the league's treasurer who passed away suddenly over the winter months.
Nico Capone was given this year's Mark Trautman Sportsmanship Award.
The Mark Trautman Sportsmanship award is an award given to the 12-year-old graduating player from the Ashland Little League who best exemplifies the attributes of character, integrity, and sportsmanship. The selection of this player is done by his/her peers (league players) without any input from coaches, parents or other players.The Farm League field was dedicated to Pete Kenenitz. a longtime coach and umpire. (Read more through the story below).
League supporter, Mike Stepanchick had the honor of throwing out this year's first pitch.
The Ashland American Legion Color Guard and Keira Blozousky helped by singing the National Anthem.
