One by one, a few hundred kids had their names called out before they each ran from third base to home plate on Callen Field in Vallejo. Although touching home plate is the end process in America’s National Pastime, the day was all about new beginnings.

After many repairs to the field on Amador Street, the 2024 Little League season kicked off with an Opening Day Ceremony featuring nearly 200 players running the bases, having their picture taken and waving to their loved ones in the stands. No games were played on the soaked fields, but fans still filled the stands with joy and anticipation for the new season.

“The biggest part for me today is the kids,” Vallejo Little League President Jason Davis said. “The community coming out and showing support and showing that Vallejo has good in it still, because it’s been a struggle in this town. The kids’ smiles shows we are putting on a good program.”

Davis said the number of kids participating in Little League is slightly down from the 200 last year, but he hopes that the younger kids will enjoy this season and then their younger siblings will also want to play.

“The hardest part is getting people to realize that we have a league,” Davis said. “For a while after COVID we had about 50 kids. This year it’s a little down, but it’s coming up. We’re moving in the right direction.”

Nick Andrews, a Vallejo High School coach who also coaches the Monstars Little League team, said he was thrilled to attend Opening Day. His son has gone through Little League and now he’s coaching his grandson.

“He got up really early for this today. He couldn’t wait to put on his uniform,” Andrews said, with a laugh. “It’s a struggle to get him up for school, but today was easy. Coaches have a big impact on these kids’ lives, so you want to teach them some structure and how to show up on time for things.”

Players get excited as their teams are announced during opening day for Vallejo Little League on Saturday. (Chris Riley/Times-Herald)

Vallejo Little League Vice President Steve Pressley applauded all the parents that came out during a day in which there wouldn’t even be one game played. While lining up, players searched frantically for their family members in the stands, waving frantically upon making eye contact.

“I played Little League here about 60 years ago ago and it’s great to have a continuing tradition and support from the Greater Vallejo Recreation District,” Pressley said. “It’s a process each year to put this league together and as soon as weather permits there are people working out here to make the fields better. It’s a big responsibility, but I think Jason and the league are doing a wonderful job.

Also on hand to give a speech to the players and crowd was Vallejo Mayor Robert McConnell, who urged the players to say a big, “Thank you” to their families for signing them up.

“As you touch home plate today, remember that you’re home and Vallejo is your home,” McConnell said. “Take advantage of this time and enjoy playing the game.

“To the parents, enjoy this,” McConnell continued. “Try to come out here as often as possible because you’ll blink and this time will be over. Thanks for coming out and making Vallejo such a wonderful place to be. With that, play ball.”

ORIGINAL SOURCE via Times Herald - Please Support w/ Subscriptions.