Why Alhambra American Little League means so much to so many

By Daniel A. Perez

Some of my earliest childhood memories take place at Granada Park, playing on the baseball diamonds. Honing their athletic abilities, making friends, eating junk food from the snack bar – these memories are common among the thousands of children who have participated in the Alhambra American Little League since its inception in 1953. Now, 70 years later, the program continues to provide a low-cost baseball, softball, and T-ball program for hundreds of families each year.

We’ll be celebrating the 70th anniversary of the league with a big Opening Day Carnival on Saturday March 4 at Granada Park, and the entire community is welcome. Our annual team fundraising booths will provide food and activities for all ages.

Inflatables, city resources, performances, raffes, and more will add to the fun. Hank Canale, long-time board member and past league president will be recognized for his service to the community, and special guests will toss out the first pitch and lead the pledge of allegiance.

I take pride in being an AALL alum and knowing our league is an Alhambra institution; it’s why I’ve served on the all-volunteer board of directors for 14 years after participating for eight years as a player. Our program helps kids not just be more physically active, but also learn teamwork, good sportsmanship, self-con dence, and so much more. Let’s look forward to another 70 years of developing young athletes that bring pride to Alhambra.