Montville begins its Little League baseball season as one team

A merger of two leagues has left the town with only one Little League for the first time in more than 50 years.

The Montville Little League is now the only game going in town for youngsters interested in baseball, according to player agent Manuela Vasquez.

The town previously had two separate leagues - the Nationals and Americans - before developing one league this year. Already, Vasquez said that the league has reached capacity, with about 330 players signed up for the season and practices already underway.

The league is made up of 10 Tiny Tee Ball teams, which feature 4-year-olds. Vasquez said this was the first year children of that age have been allowed to participate.

The Montville Little League also has six "farm" teams, made up of 6- and 7-year-olds, and six "minor league" teams, of 8- through 12-year-olds.

Six "major league" teams also exist, with children ages 9 through 12 playing making up those squads.

"Every year kids get picked by the managers to be in majors," Vasquez said. "It's a big deal."

Softball for girls ages 13 through 15 is also offered by the Montville Little League, which is now holding monthly meetings. Starting in April, the monthly meetings will be held at 7 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month at the clubhouse at the Old Colchester Road Facility.

The league is looking for volunteers to help with scheduling, concessions and several other tasks. Those interested in volunteering should contact Vasquez (vasquez5180@sbcglobal.net) or League President John Guetens (theguetens4@yahoo.com).

jeff.johnson@theday.com