Staten Island Little League opens season under new president at Dongan Hills complex (68 photos)

It’s one of the rites of spring for Little Leaguers across the country. Players and coaches get to ring in the new season with a parade and season-opening ceremonies.

That was the case Saturday morning at Staten Island Little League in Dongan Hills, where hundreds of baseball and softball players took centerstage as they ushered in a new season.

It was one of three Little League opening days around the Island on Saturday. South Shore and Great Kills also conducted opening ceremonies.

As for Saturday, it was the 72nd opening day for Staten Island LL and the first under new president Chris Bruno, who played at Staten Island LL as a young boy.

And why does the league mean so much to Bruno?

“Well, I played here a long time ago and I have three children playing in three divisions in softball and baseball so I’m really invested in the league,” he said. “This is a place I grew up and learned and loved the game of baseball and I hoping for the same for my children.”

Bruno thanked politicians NYC Councilman David Carr and State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton as well as Mark Russo for their support of the loop.

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