Opening Day -Saturday, May 7, 2005

Seven 9 - 10 year old teams and six 7 - 8 year old teams assembled at 11:45 a.m. on the newly renovated Fenway field at the Athens City West State Street ball park. A welcome message was announced by Sandlot Vice President Keith McGrath, the announcer for the day's ceremonies.

Acknowledgment of all the professional builders who donated their time, material, and equipment and helped to construct the three renovated fields. All teams were announced alphabetically with the players and coaches lining up at third base and around the infield.

At 12:30 the Presentation of Colors was made by Lt. Colonel Chase and the Ohio University Army R.O.T.C. Color Guard. Hannah Anderson sang the National Anthem a cappella.

Acknowledgment of all sponsors and donators followed. The ceremonial First Pitch was thrown by Sergeant First Class Jim Schagel. SFC Schagel returned home approximately two and a half months ago from a one-year tour of duty in Iraq.