CL Little League holds Opening Ceremonies

BY Aprile McKinnon

Kids of all ages and divisions gather in the outfield after being introduced at the Canyon Lake Little League Open Ceremonies Saturday at Gault Field. Photo by Aprile DeAnne McKinnon

Sports play a significant role in bringing people together, and in Canyon Lake, the love for sports came to life on a sunny Saturday at Gault Field.

Saturday was Opening Ceremonies for Canyon Lake Little League, a traditional nod to the first of spring where nostalgia reigns supreme. The day brought families together to celebrate another new season of youth baseball.

With the addition of eight new T-Ball teams, event coordinator Ashley Bandaruk told the crowd of her excitement to see the growing number of players and new families. The event was not only about baseball, but it was also an opportunity for families to come together and enjoy various activities that were planned for the day. One of the most celebrated traditions of the opening day is the National Anthem. This year, Leslie Standard, a 38-year-old Canyon Lake resident was given the honor of singing a beautiful rendition of the anthem.

Kids parade their team names and uniforms for opening day. Photo by Aprile DeAnne McKinnon

Leslie was chosen to sing the anthem after she won a competition that was judged by a panel of the Canyon Lake Little League executive board members. Many people entered for the opportunity to sing the anthem. Her soulful voice left the audience in awe, and her performance set the tone for the day.

The executive staff of the Canyon Lake Little League took it upon themselves to ensure that everyone was well fed during the event. They cooked and served the pancake breakfast to the participants and spectators.

The first pitches were thrown and the various league teams were introduced after which they ran around the bases to show off their uniforms. It was an exciting moment for the kids and families who cheered as they celebrated their loved ones who took to the field.

Photo by Aprile DeAnne McKinnon

Many Southern California baseball leagues were not able to have their opening ceremonies on schedule due to the rain that had muddied their fields.

Because of Canyon Lake’s committed volunteers, sponsors and families who worked hard to prep the fields, the Open Ceremonies were able to take place in Canyon Lake on Saturday. Sponsors Boyer Plumbing, TCM Construction and Bassett Building were three local businesses who came to help save the day.