Our Community Written by Holly Stupak
Batter Up! It’s Baseball Season in Marple
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pring is here, and it’s not just for cleaning, vacationing and relaxing. It’s also for baseball! Home to two little league organizations, Marple Township Little League (MTLL) and South Marple Little League (SMLL), Marple offers children ages 4-12 the opportunity to learn life lessons, make new friends and develop a love of the game. Run by dedicated volunteers and chartered members of Little League Baseball, these two leagues provide a healthy environment to play ball and to build self-confidence and self-esteem. Each league requires residency or attendance at a school within the league borders.
looking to start their children in organized sports at a younger age,” said Brian. “We were so glad we could welcome kids as young as four and see them already making lifelong friends.” Last season the MTLL also installed brand new turf batting cages at the Marple complex, allowing players more opportunities to improve their swing and technique. Their snack bar got an upgrade too. After a fire damaged the facility, Brian said local businesses and community members stepped in and remodeled the snack bar at no cost to the league. “This community is incredible,” said Brian, who is serving his third year as president. “It’s such a tight-knit Little League and we all support each other. Everyone involved puts a lot of dedication and time into making it a great season. The reward is getting to see all the players out on the field having fun.”
Umpire Tom Kauffman with Mike Noonan and his sons ( L - R ) Owen, Mikey and Finn Noonan Photo courtesy of Mike Noonan
MTLL was founded in 1951 and serves boys and girls of the Marple Newtown area. Its goal is to encourage participation, develop character and discipline and promote teamwork. “We provide quality instruction in developing baseball skills while also fostering a love of the game,” said longtime board member Mike Noonan. MTLL sponsors divisions from tee-ball to the more competitive majors and minors divisions as well as tournament teams. The 2022 season kicked off on April 2 with its annual opening day parade. “It was really special this year because for the past two years we were unable to have the parade due to the pandemic,” explained MTLL President Brian McCollum. “It was so great to see all of our players and families get to celebrate this year. It really gets everyone excited for the upcoming season.” The 2021 season brought some new changes to MTLL. They added a 4-year-old tee-ball division, which was very well received by families in the community. “Many parents are 28 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together
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