CNBNews

By Chris Concannon

Gloucester City News

  A nearly cloudless and warm late morning greeted the 2012 Opening Day ceremonies, for both Bellmawr Baseball and Softball, April 14.

  Both Garrity Field on Warren Avenue, along with the “Little League” facilities on Essex Avenue, were abuzz with parents and players following the parade from the St. Joachim (Annunciation) School lot at noon.

  With the Little League running for over 50 years, and their cross-town counterparts nearing that milestone, temperatures were expected to reach the mid 70s by the end of the afternoon.

  As opening ceremonies got underway at Charles Koehler Field (Essex Avenue), a moment of silence was observed for the late Nolan Rozzelle, who passed away earlier this year following a courageous battle with diabetes.

  Rozzelle was a long-time member of Bellmawr Little League, elected to its Hall of Fame, and instrumental in many of the aspects followed to this day.

  Although officially known as Bellmawr Baseball, Little League baseball has transcended time and distance, with leagues and teams all over the world, culminating in the annual Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA.

  A team of 14-15 year-olds managed to garner a Tri-Town Championship in 2009 in the Babe Ruth League.

  Other local, sectional and regional tourneys have been won over the many years of this successful program.

  Council President Lou De Angelo, who, along with Councilman Steve Sauter, threw out the ceremonial first pitches, said that these leagues would not exist were it not for the dedication of all the parents and volunteers.

  Consult the respective league’s websites for official game dates and times.

  Every player and team looks forward to another great season on Bellmawr baseball and softball.