Opening day ceremonies started with a parade of teams around the baseball field, led by none other than Paws, the Detroit Tigers mascot. Paws played with the kids, signed mitts and caps, and posed for many pictures.
You'll never guess who absolutely loved Paws.
After the parade, a local celebrity sang the National Anthem and the mayor through out the first pitch. All in all, a very cute event and not too shabby for a small league of 5 t-ball and 5 coach pitch teams!
The first game went pretty well. Jeff and I were both a little concerned that they would have a tough time playing each others' teams. However, it was pretty much a non-event. Both boys got several base hits. Ben made two great plays in a row at first base - fielding the ball and tagging the base for outs. Just as important, they both had a great time and the t-ball season is on. Like many sports for young kids, they these days they don't keep score in this league, so everyone was a winner. My game shots are not great because I was taking pictures through a chain link fence, but here are a few that aren't too bad.
Dylan posing for his individual picture
Dylan running to first base
Ben hitting the ball
Dylan on base while Ben was playing second
I did manage to get a few cute pictures of Lily during the games. We are very lucky that there are at least four other kids on the team with 2-3 year old sisters. So, Lily is in very good company during the games. One of the other parents very thoughtfully brought a ton of popcorn to the game to keep the little ones occupied. This allowed me to see 3/4 of the game before Lily wanted to go play at the park.
For some reason, Lily wanted to carry this backpack full of books around. She wore it for at least 45 minutes and it is heavy!
Eating popcorn and hanging with the girls
Overall, a very memorable opening day and first game. We are looking forward to the rest of the season.
