OTHELLO – With their ball caps on and mitts at the ready, youth baseball and softball teams kicked off the 2018 season with an opening day parade and ceremony Saturday.

A police escort led the path as each team made their way from Pioneer Park to Lions Park, with supportive fans cheering them along the way.

Amy Hurlbut, Parks and Recreation Coordinator, served as emcee for the ceremony, announcing each team in the league this year. Miss Rodeo Othello, Sarah Wilson, was also on hand to carry the American Flag during the National Anthem.

Longtime participant and supporter of the youth league, Sally McFarlin, was also recognized during the opening ceremony. MacFarlin also threw out the ceremonial first pitch for both baseball and softball.

“We honored her because in 1972, one of our coaches played on her team,” said Hurlbut.

That coach was Oscar Casados, who now coaches his grandson on The Giants with the help of his son-in-law.

That is just one example of the many generations that have participated in the youth program Hurlbut explained.

Hurlbut believes that it is important to remember and honor those who, like McFarlin, have contributed and taken part in making the youth program possible.

“We don’t spend enough time looking back and appreciating the people who made it possible,” said Hurlbut.

Hurlbut also explained that in 1972 there were only 12 teams. Now, there are 42 teams in the league and the program continues to grow.

Game times for the 2018 season are Monday through Friday beginning at 5 p.m., and Saturday’s beginning at 9 a.m.