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VIDEO: Ball season begins in the Langleys

Humboldt players remembered as hundreds attend opening events

The skies were dry and cloudy as hundreds of players, parents and volunteers, along with members of both Langley councils, launched the 2018 ball season on Saturday morning, with opening ceremonies held at Noel Booth Park, City Park and Walnut Grove Community Park.

“We didn’t think we’d get a break on the weather, so we’re very, very happy about that, ” Langley Fastball Association (LFA) President Jeff Clegg said at Noel Booth park.

Celgg said said the LFA continues to grow at an “absolutely fantastic” pace, with 10 more minor players added to bring the total in that category to 420.

Ryan Leakey was recognized as volunteer of the year at the event, and Langley City mayor Ted Schaffer and Langley Township mayor Jack Froese pitched two balls simultaneously to open the season .

Schaffer, a former president of the association, referred to the Humboldt Broncos hockey team tragedy in his remarks.

“When you reflect back on what happened just over a week ago in Saskatchewan , and you take a look at your children, (we are) not unlike the families and the parents of those children,” Schaffer said.

Froese, a former soccer coach, led a cheer for the volunteers who keep the LFA going.

“It’s because of you that this happens,” Froese said.

“Have a lot of fun and stay safe.”

READ MORE: GALLERY: Ball diamond produces four champs

At City Park, the Broncos were acknowledged by Langley Baseball at the opening ceremonies with a pair of hockey sticks placed behind home plate where a group flag bearers stood as players, coaches and parents took the field.

READ MORE: Langley team wins Selects game

At Walnut Grove, enthusiastic players got the 2018 North Langley Diamond Sports season off to a fast start , sprinting on to the field as the ceremonies took place.

READ MORE: Tournament celebrated ‘true Little Leaguer’



dan.ferguson@langleytimes.com

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The Trappers take the field at the North Langley Diamond Sports season opener at Walnut Grove Community Park Saturday. Dan Ferguson Langley Times
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Players of all sizes took part in the official season opener of Langley Baseball at City Park Saturday. Dan Ferguson Langley Times
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The Ball Stars take the field at the official opening of the season for Langley Fastball at Noel Booth Park. Dan Ferguson Langley Times
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Ryan Leakey was recognized as volunteer of the year Saturday at the official start of the season for Langley Fastball at Noel Booth Park. Dan Ferguson Langley Times
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Two hockey sticks to honour the victims of the Humboldt tragedy were placed behind home plate at the official opening of the season for Langley Baseball at City Park. Dan Ferguson Langley Times
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A reminder in Walnut Grove Community Park. Dan Ferguson Langley Times


Dan Ferguson

About the Author: Dan Ferguson

Best recognized for my resemblance to St. Nick, I’m the guy you’ll often see out at community events and happenings around town.
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