Embassy Events

Little League 2009: Embassy Helps Open the Baseball Season in Slovakia

Charge Keith Eddins encourages the new baseball teams in Devinska Nova Ves. Photo: Thomas Johnson.

Charge d’ Affaires Keith Eddins threw out the ceremonial “first pitch” on May 1 to open the baseball season in Slovakia. Little League baseball teams, the Angels and Mustangs, began a third season in Devinska Nova Ves, sponsored by GoodSports International Slovensko in partnership with the Slovak Baseball Federation team, Fighting Flies. This year marks the introduction of a T-ball program, allowing children ages 5-8 years to learn basic baseball skills, while children 9-13 years will participate as players for the two teams. Volunteer coaches, parents and invited guests gathered under the blue sky and shared thoughts about baseball, the value of teamwork, and working together on behalf of kids. In the first contest of the season, the Angels won a six-inning contest 9-3, but everyone went away happy, courtesy of the weather, hot dogs, family, friends and the volunteer coaches.