Columbia American Little League celebrates Opening Day

By Chris Yow

COLUMBIA — When the decision was made to play the 2020 Columbia American Little League season, there was certainly some hesitancy on the part of some parents and league organizers.

With the success of the season, however, there was never a doubt the 2021 season would not only be played, but be played as normally as possible.

“Starting on time this season is such a big deal for our kids,” CALL president-elect Jason Cox said Monday, as the league held its opening day ceremonies. “We are excited to be out at the ballpark in April.”

Cox said there are more than 200 kids participating in the league this season, a number much closer to the 2019 season than last.

“We are so excited to see this many kids out this year,” he said. “Having these teams out tonight is awesome.”

Sunny Quinn, grandson of longtime CALL supporter and coach Freddy Bray, tossed the ceremonial first pitch.

Last year, the league decided not to offer traditional concessions, but opted for food trucks in the parking lots. Cox said that would continue in 2021 at the request of parents. The league makes up for the concession stand revenue by charging the food trucks a fee.

“The parents and kids love it because it’s a bigger variety of food, and the trucks love it because there are a lot of people out here on game nights,” Cox said.

Cox added that without the support of the league and team sponsors, there would not be a season.

“We couldn’t do this without the corporate sponsors, and we want to make sure they know how much we appreciate what they bring to Little League,” he said.

Photos by Chris Yow / SM-TN Sports

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