Parading through the streets as if it was their own “Canyon of Heroes,” Queens Little Leaguers waved at onlookers and beamed with smiles as they opened their season.
Junior sluggers took to the streets as the Ridgewood-Glendale-Middle Village-Maspeth (RGMVM) Little League season kicked off with a parade down Myrtle Avenue in Glendale on Saturday, April 3.
As the oldest Little League in Queens, RGMVM emphasizes teamwork and sportsmanship while keeping children engaged in physical activities and away from the bad influences of idle afternoons.
Assemblymember Mike Miller, who played in the league as a child, remembers the positives experiences and long time friendships gained from his summers on the field of play.
“I had a great time playing in this league,” said Miller. “Not only was it a good time playing, but it also gave me a sense of purpose and that is very important to our young people.”
Crediting the organizers of the league, Miller stressed the overall importance of giving children something to do in the spring and summer.
“They [organizers] are out there everyday working with the kids,” said Miller. “It’s a lifetime of dedication and these people do it for nothing.”
Al Erdmann, vice president of the league, said that Little League provides children with a measure of pride that comes with working together as a team. This teamwork, according to Erdmann, builds friendships and forms bonds that have the potential to last a lifetime.
“I have been with the league for 33 years, so I’ve seen kids grow up and become parents,” said Erdmann. “It teaches them about the importance of friendships; it’s an influence that stays with them for the rest of their lives.”
RGMVM not only boasts the longest active streak of any other league in Queens, it also was the starting point for major league pitcher Allen Watson. The Middle Village product started with the league before playing ball at Christ the King Regional High School. He eventually moved on to the majors and won a World Series ring with the Yankees in 2000.
“Imagine that,” said Erdmann. “A kid from Queens plays Little League and ends up winning a World Series.”
Coaches, parents and Little League administrators who would like to see their kids’ names, pictures and stats in The Courier are encouraged to email the sports editor at smosco@queenscourier.com or call him at 718-2245863, Ext. 225.
