Stars Shine in Stamford
Youth league joins varsity programs to celebrate softball
More than 300 players, coaches and family members associated with the Stamford Stars showed up at Troy Field I at Cove Island Park Tuesday for a “Celebration of City Youth Softball.”
Present players watched and cheered on members of the Stamford and Westhill high school softball teams, many of whom are alumni of the league associated with Babe Ruth. It was the first time the Stars program hosted the high school rivalry.
Each of the Stars, representing 24 teams, were introduced, lining up on the foul lines, then went to the outfield for the National Anthem, several younger players standing next to this year’s varsity high school team members.
“It was a great night for all the girls involved, and so much fun to see the very young girls watch the varsity athletes compete while knowing, that not too long ago, those same varsity players were playing in the same youth league,” stated Bryan Fox Stars Vice President.
The high school game itself, part of the City Cup Challenge, was won 12-0 by Stamford, which was powered by a towering home run from Samantha Albert and a shut out pitching performance from Kim Saunders. Stamford improved to 9-4. Westhill is 7-6.
To celebrate city youth softball, the Stamford Stars League inspired all twenty-four teams to show up in their team jerseys and join the high school athletes, most former Stars alumni, on the field for the national anthem. Rippowam team won a team pizza party for rallying the most players.
To ignite the field and spirit of youth softball back into Stamford, the snack bar has been reinvented as The Star Bar and all proceeds were donated back to support the league.
“This event showcased Stamford coming together at many levels, the Parks and Recreation, and all the work they put in, The High School ADs and players, and The Stamford Stars Players who all contributed to make a great night of Softball possible for Stamford,” said Michael Orgera, Stars President.