For the past two years I have been managing a New Hyde Park Little League baseball team. Little league baseball, like all team sports, is the opportunity for all who play to learn teamwork, camaraderie, patience and discipline and most of all to remember that this is a game for kids, let them have fun and let them learn by their mistakes.

Let me just say thanks to a few of the men I owe a debt of gratitude. First, all the members of the New Hyde Park Little League Board including: Bob Cicalo, Richard Coppola, Mark Farina, president, Mark Klett, Camille Schaumburg, Donna Sonnenberg and Al Weinman. Former board members Steve Andreuzzi, Fred Boehmcke, former president, Bob Johnson and Sonia Tempone.

A special thanks to Richard Coppola, who taught me the importance of becoming a good manager and for his continual support for me during my first year of managing. For Jeff Hammer, my partner and coach for always being there during my first year in the Minor Division. Finally, Al Weinman. I considered him my mentor. I have spent five years watching him managing and teaching our youngsters the game of baseball. I acquired many of my managerial skills from him.

Also, thanks go out to all the other coaches: Lou Devito, Sal Mercandate, Jim Ficht, Greg Depowski and Lucky Andali. Many thanks, too, to all the parents who allowed me to spend the spring with their youngsters. Finally, I would like to thank my wife, Fay and my boys Christopher and Nicholas for all their support during these past two years.

I almost forgot, a very big thank you goes to all the players that I had fun with. Also I would like to congratulate them on being the Minor Division Champs for two consecutive years.

The 1996 team, sponsored by New Hyde Park Stationery, achieved first place and the team included: Frank Bongiovanni, Sal Cottone, Billy Coscino, Michael Depowski, Joseph DeVita, Ryan Hammer, Nicholas Lew, Zach Mercandante, Paul Schuble, Bryce Schweitzer, Richard Shammah, Kristin Sheedy and Brian Sheridan.

The 1997 team, also sponsored by New Hyde Park Stationery, also first place winners and that team included: Marc Ambadjes, Joseph Andali, Ryan Campson, Alex Chow, Eric Costantino, Michael Depowski, Kevin Ficht, Nicholas Lew, Joseph Marrano, Zachary McBride and Thomas Spano.

On May 2, as the New Hyde Park Little League Parade and festivities come to a close, at Nuzzi Field, we can only say to all those involved, have a great season and now, play ball!