The Coaster

By TOM CARDINALE

Coaster Photo by Tom Cardinale Daniel Drum (red hat) is joined by his 2007 Ocean South All Star teammates as he prepares to throw out the seasons first pitch.

A crowd of hundreds braved the cold to officially open the 57th season Ocean Township Little League with their annual opening ceremonies on Tues., March 25.

Among those in attendance were Mayor William Larkin and Senator Sean Kean who both reminisced about their days playing in the Ocean Township Little League.

“This is always an exciting time for the little league and the town,” Larkin said. “I played little league in the 50’s so I guess I remember about all of the 57 years.”

Kean recounted his final memory of his little league career when he made a throwing error on his final play. Still, he said over time that memory has become a good one.

“I played here 20 years ago and I’ll never forget it,” he said. “Just always have fun.”

The highlight of the festivities for many was former league member Daniel Drum throwing out the first pitch.

Drum was joined by his 2007 Ocean South 12 year old All Star teammates on the mound before throwing out the first strike of the season to his former catcher.

It was while pitching for the Ocean South All Star team last summer that Drum was struck in the face by a comebacker, fracturing his orbital bone and requiring reconstructive surgery.

League President Bud Messner said Drum was an easy choice to throw out the first pitch.

“He was a real trooper,” Messner said. “He came
back to see the rest of the tournament after he was released from the hospital. Never complained or anything.”

Drum was also the first ever recipient of the Michael Apicelli Courage Award, which Messner said is only given in extremely worthy cases.

“It’s the kind of thing we give when the situation warrants it. It’s not an annual thing,” he said.

Since his injury Drum has returned to baseball and currently plays for the Ocean Township Intermediate School team.

“He’s really a good athlete,” Messner added. “He’s a really nice kid.”

After all the festivities the season got underway, as the Tigers defeated the Marlins, 15-3, in the first game of 2008.

Win or lose, though, it was clear; the teams were ready to play ball.
Contact Tom Cardinale at tom@thecoaster.net

Coaster Photo by Tom Cardinale While it didnt feel like baseball weather, the Marlins and Tigers played the seasons first game Tuesday night.

Coaster Photo by Tom Cardinale The Marlins threatened to score throughout the game but the Tigers were able to hold onto their lead for a seasoning opening win, 15-3.

Coaster Photo by Tom Cardinale Drum was injured while pitching for the Ocean South All Stars last year and required reconstructive surgery after being struck by a batted ball. He now plays for Ocean Township Intermediate School.

Coaster Photo by Tom Cardinale The Tigers excellent defense was a big reason for their success against the Marlins.

Coaster Photo by Tom Cardinale The Tigers were victorious, 15-3. Starting pitcher Richard Thornton got the win.

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