Johnston Little League held its Opening Day ceremonies last Friday night at Memorial Park after the original date was rained out the previous weekend.
Typically, JLL has a parade that begins at the high school and wraps up at Kennedy Field. This year, the league adjusted the route to take place entirely in the park. The new format was a hit as players, parents and local dignitaries made the trip to welcome the new season.
“It was something different but something the parents thought was unique. We were glad to try something new,” said JLL president Joe Splendorio, who returns for his third year at the helm. “It’s very exciting. We have such a longstanding tradition in Johnston Little League. This time of year, everyone gets a little antsy but is happy to be back with their Little League family after hibernating all winter.”
JLL has enjoyed a steady rise in numbers the past three seasons and is approaching 220 players overall. The boost in numbers has allowed it to add two more minor league teams and one more junior/senior team.
The league has worked hard over the past year to improve its facility and Kennedy Field. Between items such as new scoreboards, a new sound system and flags and banners throughout the complex, Splendorio and the JLL board of directors feel that locals are starting to take notice of the facelift which has helped attract more players.
“We’ve added walk up music, we’ve dressed up the ballpark with flags, new scoreboards. The things that may not seem like a big deal to parents, they are to kids. It makes them feel like pros,” said Splendorio. “The parents like to be entertained, too, and it’s like a night out for them.”
As always, Mayor Joseph Polisena was in attendance and threw the ceremonial first pitch. Splendorio thanked Polisena for his commitment to the town’s youth sports scene, specifically JLL.
“Johnston Little League is very grateful to Mayor Polisena and for his efforts. He knows that we are growing and has been trying to help us out, especially with our fields. We’re very appreciative of that,” said Splendorio.
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