Spencerport Junior Baseball & Softball Celebrates Opening Day Parade, Field Dedication, Grant Announcement, and Scholarships
On Saturday, May 9, Pineway Ponds Park was abuzz with excitement as Spencerport Junior Baseball & Softball (SJB&S) kicked off its Opening Day festivities. The event brought together players, families, and community leaders to celebrate the start of the season and honor the program’s rich history and bright future. The event started with the annual parade of baseball and softball players marching in their uniforms around the park. The parade was led by a truck and firefighters from the Spencerport Fire District, flag bearers from Cub Scout Pack 92, and the Spencerport High School Drum Corps. The parade ended at the field where players and coaches were welcomed by Spenceport’s Varsity Baseball Team.
Field Dedication to Tony Pisa
A highlight of the day was the heartfelt dedication of a field to Tony Pisa, a long-time commissioner of the SJB&S program. Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale spoke of Pisa’s decades of service and unwavering commitment to youth sports in Spencerport that has left an indelible mark on the community. The newly named “Tony Pisa Field” stands as a testament to his dedication and the countless hours he has spent fostering a love of baseball and softball among local youth.
$18,000 Grant for Equipment Shed Renovation
Another exciting announcement came in the form of an $18,000 grant from the Rochester Area Community Foundation, made possible through its partnership with the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation (RCWJF). The funds will be used to renovate the program’s equipment shed, ensuring that players and coaches have access to safe, up-to-date facilities.
The RCWJF, established after the sale of the Buffalo Bills by founder Ralph C. Wilson Jr. and his wife, Mary, is dedicated to supporting youth sports and community development, particularly in smaller towns across Western New York. By partnering with community foundations such as the Rochester Area Community Foundation, the RCWJF channels resources to areas where they can have the greatest impact. This grant reflects their commitment to empowering youth and strengthening local sports programs.
Scholarship Awards
The day also celebrated the achievements of two outstanding young student athletes, Brody Kwoka and Ella Newell, who were each awarded a $250 scholarship from SJB&S. The Steven Schockow scholarships recognize the students’ commitment to leadership, sportsmanship, and community involvement.
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