Westchester Babe Ruth, one of the longest running organizations in the community, is returning to its original home at LMU to celebrate its milestone 60th anniversary. With over 7,200 alumni, 1,600 games, and several national championships under its belt, this local organization has touched the lives of many families in our community, and across the country.
Participation in Babe Ruth Baseball is for 13-15 year old baseball players who have graduated from their Little League experience and are interested playing more competitively. Unlike Little League, Babe Ruth games take place on regulation baseball fields and adhere to the same rules as college and pro baseball. In fact, Westchester Babe Ruth got its start by having its games and practices on the LMU’s Sullivan Field!
Chris Lynch, the Director of Westchester Babe Ruth and former player, explains that the Westchester league differentiates itself from other programs through its mission of providing any players a baseball opportunity. “We focus on skill development, teaming, and teaching some life skills along the way. We use the challenges of playing baseball as a tool to teach players to learn to deal with adversity. Strategies include mental focus, team commitment, and community awareness.” Lynch also pointed out that 90 percent of the volunteer coaching staff is made up by non-parent community members.
The Westchester program has enjoyed some fantastic seasons recently. Since 2008, the league made it to the World Series five times. In 2013, the 14 year-old and under team won the Babe Ruth World Championships. Another huge win for the league came just last year when the 15 year-old and under team won the World Championships.
In addition to its recent accomplishments, Westchester Babe Ruth also boasts of some notable alumni, including Robby Piccilo, Roy Smalley, and Royce Clayton, all of whom have enjoyed significant Major League Baseball Careers. And Robert Gsellman, a ’11 Westchester High School is current pitching for the NY Mets AA affiliate and should be called up to the Major League Club by the season’s end.
In celebration of the program’s 60 years, Westchester Babe Ruth will return to LMU on June 4th for an exciting double header at Page Stadium.
Regarding the upcoming celebration, Lynch adds, “I have many fond memories of playing at Sullivan Field (precursor to Page Stadium) and I’m thrilled for the opportunity afforded our 2016 players. It will be quite memorable for them.”
The community is invited to join us for this celebration of Westchester Babe Ruth Baseball on Saturday, June 4th. The first game starts at 11:00am with a second game beginning at 2:30pm.
