By Dave Ryan

CAMBRIDGE – A spring tradition took place on Saturday, as Cambridge Little League held its Opening Day parade, ceremonies and games. Volunteers spent extra time preparing the field, soggy after recent heavy rains, for the action to be offered by nearly 200 young athletes on 16 teams.

Families began gathering at Long Wharf in the morning, getting their sluggers ready for the parade’s departure at 10 a.m. Trucks driven by moms and dads towed trailers hauling the excited kids through town, until the turn off Race Street to Pliescott Park.

In the parade were teams sponsored by Care and Share, Perez Home Improvements, The Learning Center, Tri-Gas, Harvey’s Electric, Roy Bradshaw’s Body Shop, Meredith Landscaping, Cabin Fever, Horseman Enterprises, Craig’s Pharmacy, Rescue Fire Company, Megan Holotik Insurance, Mid-Shore Graphics, Rotary, Bobby Bell Construction and Elks.

All the fun and excitement wouldn’t have been possible without substantial support from local businesses and individuals.

“We have lots of businesses that reach out to help us,” said Steve Twilley, who is leading the league this season.

And while the city and county didn’t contribute cash, Mr. Twilley said, “I want to give a shout-out to Mike Diaz and Recreation and Parks,” two of whose workers came out on their own time to help get the fields ready. “Without everybody’s support, we wouldn’t be able to do what we’ve done.”

Not least of those who work to ensure the children have a fulfilling sports experience are the members of the Little League Board: President Steve Twilley, Vice President of Baseball Clint Moxey, Vice President of Softball Brittany Mowbray, Treasurer Nikki Short, Secretary Heather Harrington, Player Agent J.R. Bloom, and Members Jayson Bleyer, Keith Gray, Stephanie Moxey, Denny Proffitt, Erin Scheele, Roger Short, Jason Shorter and Rusty Mowbray.

The 2022 season was dedicated to the memory of former Board Member Calvin Stack, as well as Philip Wayne Todd, Jacob Frego and Gordy Jones. Mr. Stack’s son Steve threw out the ceremonial first pitch, caught by player Wyatt Harrington.