LAFAYETTE, La. – The Lafayette Parks and Recreation Department’s Greater Lafayette Little League season kicked off on Saturday with an opening ceremony at Brown Park.
The Lafayette Consolidated Government (LCG) Parks and Recreation Department formed the Greater Lafayette Little League, expanding baseball and softball opportunities for youth in Lafayette and nearby parishes.
"Our goal with creating the Greater Lafayette Little League is to provide additional opportunities for families and children in our area," Lafayette Mayor-President Josh Guillory said.
The Greater Lafayette Little League is the second chartered league in Lafayette. The first, Lafayette Little League, was formed in 1972. Each league can draw players from their respective boundaries.
Lafayette City Councilman for District 1 Patrick Lewis was at the opening ceremony Saturday, and said the league is a great way for kids in the area of Brown Park to get out and enjoy doing something productive, especially during the summer or after school.
Echoing the sentiment was Mayor-President Guillory, also in attendance, who said officials are working to create anything positive for Lafayette's children to keep them off the streets and productive in a positive atmosphere.
"The boundaries of the Greater Lafayette Little League reach beyond Lafayette Parish, giving more boys and girls the opportunity to play in the world's largest youth sports organization," said Lafayette Parks and Recreation Athletic Supervisor Walter Guillory. Ultimately, it gives them a shot to play in the Little League World Series, the pinnacle of Little League Baseball."
The Greater Lafayette Little League encompasses the following areas:
· West to Acadia Parish, including Crowley, Rayne, and surrounding areas
· North to St. Landry Parish, including Opelousas, Sunset, Grand Coteau, and surrounding areas
· East to St. Martin Parish, including Breaux Bridge, Arnaudville, Cecilia, and surrounding areas.
705 baseball and softball players are signed up to play with the league.
Lafayette's Parks and Rec Department is on a good trajectory, said Mayor-President Guillory, adding that the department is looking to expand the entire baseball experience. It's not just about playing ball, he said, but also for kids who are interested in things like coaching or even announcing a game.
And the baseball experience is for everyone.
"It's not just for the kids, it's for the family," said Lewis. "It's a good outing for the community."
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