The big parade on West McGraw Street marked the opening of this year’s Magnolia Little League season.
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With perfect weather for the parade, the Ballard High School marching band led 40 fastpitch and baseball teams through The Village from Westmont Way West. to 32nd Ave West.
The parade lasted for about half an hour and ended at the field behind the Magnolia Community Center where the opening ceremony took place.
“It was fun throwing candies,” said the 7-year-old Emily Lantz who participated in the opening parade for the first time.
The games will officially start the second week of April and will last until August. Coaches and players have been longing for their first games of the season.
“I feel really good about the team,” said Todd Hyatt, the coach of the Magnolia boy’s senior baseball team. “We are combining with Queen Anne this year and it is the first time we have a senior team in four or five years.”
Many others shared Hyatt’s feelings. A lot of the coaches said their teams are in good shape and have been practicing for three week.
Bill Kounellas, who is the coach of our very own Magnolia Voice fastpitch team, described his players as excited and hardworking.
Judging from the enthusiasm expressed by the community, the Little League is indeed something more than a contest for championship. It also serves as a social opportunity for young athletes.
Carolyn Kounellas said her favorite part about softball is hitting the ball while her teammate Zoe Seeman expressed that she has fun playing with friends.
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“It is so nice to have the community out,” said resident Beth Noble. “This is such a great example of our community celebrating its spirits.”
