Throwing out the commemorative first pitch was 17-year-old Stephon Nelson of Apollo Beach. Nelson is an athlete in the Challenger Division at East Bay. Chere Simmons photos.
East Bay Youth Athletics opened the season with fanfare on Friday, Feb. 27, at Vance Vogel Park in Gibsonton.
More than 700 baseball and softball players, along with managers, coaches and administrators, crowded the Major Division field on Friday night for the official start to another season at East Bay Youth Athletics. Games are played at Vance Vogel Park, 13012 Bullfrog Creek Road, Gibsonton, and occasional interlocking games at neighboring ballparks.
The Riverview High School JROTC Color Guard displays the flags for the Pledge of Allegiance and national anthem.
The Storm, an 8U softball team, was among the 700-plus athletes on the field during opening ceremonies.
4 Heart Harmony members Kelly Coultas, Taylyn Olney, Shelby O’Brien and Kassidy Gavagan entertained the crowd and led the national anthem.
Vendors, food trucks and a bounce house were on hand to occupy visitors awaiting the official start to the 2015 baseball and softball season at East Bay Youth Athletics.
