‘Road to Regionals’ begin at Tan Ko

The 2008 Junior League District Tournament kicked off yesterday with simple rites at the Francisco M. Palacios Baseball Field in Oleai.

The opening ceremony was delayed for 30 minutes because of the onset of rain, but it was all clear skies and smooth sailing when it finally started, especially for the hosts which defeated Tinian in the first two games, 17-1 and 19-6.

After the Major, Senior, and Big League all-star teams followed by the respective Junior All-Star teams of Tinian and Saipan took their places on the field, the opening ceremony began with an invocation delivered by Saipan Community Church pastor Roger Abe, who prayed for safety and fair play for and among the participants of the event.

District Administrator James Ada then stepped up to podium and welcomed everyone in attendance to the 2008 Junior League District Tournament. He also thanked the presidents of both island’s Little League programs—Ike Aquiningoc of Tinian and Juan I. Tenorio of Saipan.

The 2008 qualifier, which Ada said is also called the ‘Road to the Regionals,’ marks the third time that Tinian is participating since the island’s Little League program was chartered in 1997.

Ada added that the two-day tournament will serve as a qualifier for the Asia-Pacific Regional Tournament set also on Saipan from June 26 to July 4.

House Speaker Arnold Palacios, meanwhile, gave kudos to the Little League program of the CNMI.

“That we are standing here today is a testament to the community effort from our parents, from the coaches, and from the many volunteers, especially to you, [the baseball players]. It’s a testament to the success of the Little League program not only on Saipan but the whole Commonwealth.”

Palacios added that the program is more than a sport. “It’s not just about playing baseball. It really ends up giving lifelong lessons and that’s why we’re here today to instill these values to our youth.”

Rep. Ramon Tebuteb, for his part, emphasized sportsmanship all throughout the event. He also thanked the sponsors, organizers, and supporters of Little League program.

Saipan Little League Baseball Association vice present Mike Borja, who also serves as tournament director, extended his gratitude to the organizing committee and volunteers.

He told the Saipan and Tinian Junior All-Stars to play hard baseball but not to forget sportsmanship during the two-day tournament.

The opening ceremony was also attended by Department of Community and Cultural Affairs Secretary Melvin Faisao and Saipan Mayor’s Office information officer Tony Benevente. KSPN2 news director Bob Coldeen was the emcee.