Baseball season is special in Grove City, regardless of your level of participation in the sport. All are invited to enjoy some family fun the first weekend of May in Windsor Park, 4408 Broadway. The annual Friday Night Grand Slam is 6 to 9 p.m. on May 3; followed by Opening Day events beginning at 8:30 a.m., Saturday, May 4.
The Friday Night Grand Slam, a community celebration that honors the many members of the community who have contributed to the exceptional legacy of baseball in Grove City, kicks off with a parade through Windsor Park of current players representing Buddy Ball and all levels of Little League. Following the parade, all will gather at the Wall of Fame where teams will be announced, players will receive pins and join Mayor Richard “Ike” Stage for photos before proceeding to Barry Babbert Field. The mayor will then lead the assembled players in the recitation of the Little League Pledge.
Following the pledge, members of the community nominated for their dedicated time and effort to local youth baseball, are honored as their names are unveiled at the Wall of Fame in the heart of Windsor Park. This year’s inductees are Mike Stokes (umpire) and Pete Kazmierczak (coach).
“I am honored to be part of this tribute to individuals and sponsors who have provided so much support to our youth baseball program,” said Stage. “We are proud of the support the community has given to youth baseball for nearly seven decades.”
After the induction ceremony, players and visitors can enjoy a variety of sports skills competitions, bounce houses and entertainment.
The next morning, Grove City’s Little League baseball season begins with the traditional Saturday Opening Day. The honor guard presents the colors at 8:45 a.m., followed by the season’s first playing of the national anthem. The Wall of Fame inductees will then throw out the first pitches of the season before teams hit the diamonds to start the 2019 season at 9 a.m.
For information on Grove City Parks and Recreation offerings including Little League baseball, visit GroveCityOhio.gov or call 614-277-3050. Weather-related cancellation information is available at the Grove City website, Facebook and Twitter pages or call 614-277-3060 the day of the event.
