Following the sports pattern set by most of the nation on Memorial Day, Meriden's Little League opened its third season with a pair of slick Pee-Wee baseball games before 750 fans at Falcon Park.
Marked with suitable ceremonies that included two official inaugural pitches, one by White Sox immortal, Big Ed Walsh, and the other by Falcons president Charles Machnik. Big Ed opened the Pee Wee division named after him by tossing out the first pitch and young Fran Tracy followed with a seven-hit victory for the Moose Club. The defending champion Moose Club edged the Guernsey Chevies 7-6 in Ed Walsh League action and the Pembek Oilers blanked the Falcons 2-0 in Jack Barry League action. Ralph Musto pitched a four-hitter and struck out 14 as the Oilers defeated the Falcons.

Regular season Little League games were played at Falcon Park, Columbus Park, and Washington Park. "Little League Stadium", located on the corner of Britannia Street and Tremont Street, was originally scheduled to open for the 1951 season, but construction problems delayed the opening till mid 1952.

The 1951 Meriden Little League Championship was won by Pembek Oil of the Jack Barry League.

Members of the Pembek Oil team were: Sammy Kalmanowitz, Ralph Musto, Marty Tempe, Ken Mango, Ralph McKenna, Phil L'Heureux, Ted Maguder, Harry Burgess, Robert Chevrotiere, Joe Kinel, Iwanicki, and Terry McGovern. They were managed by Donald Caley.

Pembeks Cop Little Loop Title
With more than 600 fans watching from the sidelines, the Pembek Oilers of the Jack Barry League proved themselves Pee Wee champs of the city with a rousing 6-2 victory over the stubborn Eagles, Wednesday August 29, 1951, at Falcon Park. Joe Kinel was the winning pitcher and Mike Mancano took the lose. Ted Maguder went 1 for 3 at the plate with two key RBI's for the Oilers.

District 4 Tournament Play
Meriden Little League sends two All Star teams to play in the District 4 tournament. The Big Ed Walsh All Stars receive a first round bye, while the Jack Barry All Stars play in the opening round against the Wallingford All Stars. The regular season was put on hold to accommodate tournament play.

Playing before a packed house at New Haven's Greist Field the Jack Barry All Stars win their opening round game with a 4-3 victory over Wallingford on July 23,1951 behind the strong arm of Ralph Musto and the timely hitting by Bill Schafrick and Dennis Gaffney.

In the district semi-finals, the Ed Walsh All Stars were eliminates by Milford 9-3 on July 24,1951 before 2,300 fans at New Haven's Greist Field. In a loosing effort Ed Jakiela, unbeaten in regular Little League games this year, couldn't contain the strong Milford lineup.

The Jack Barry All Stars were ousted from tournament play by the West Haven All Stars 14-12 on July 25,1951 before 2,200 hysterical fans at New Haven's Greist Field. Trailing 9-0 the Barry All Stars clawed their way back to take the lead 10-9 with a sensational 10-run uprising in the fourth session. Regarded by many as one of the most amazing rallies in Little League History, the Jack Barry All Stars earned a standing ovation from the crowd after scoring 10 times in the fourth. West Haven, however, fought back to claim the victory 14-12 with a two run homer in the bottom of the sixth by Johnny Wezenski. For the Barry All Stars Walt Mierzejewski smashed a homer that traveled 265 feet and Joe Sargalski hit two homers, both in the 10 run fourth inning.

1951 Jack Barry League All-Stars
Walt Mierzejewski, Sammy Kalmanowitz, Ken Salka, Ralph Musto, Dennis Gaffney, Eddie Kowalski, Marty Tempe, Jimmy Scanlon, Billy Schafrick, Billy Janesko, Sal Paotto, Nick Roberts, Artie DeChamplain, and Joe Sargalski. Coached by Johnny Patzke and Donald Caley.

1951 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
Edward Jakiela, Mike Mancano, Francis Tracy, Danny Stevens, Mike Abeloff, Dave Thornton, Bob Petrella, Wayne Vumback, Jimmy Gaffney, Dick O'Neil, Johnny Martancik, Jimmy Levasseur, Bobby Grossman, and Peter Dunlop. Coached by Caroll Custy and Gene Gilmartin.

The first Little League established outside the US is in British Columbia, Canada..776 programs are now in existance. Stamford Connecticut wins the Little League World Series and becomes the first Connecticut teams to win a World Series titles.

Meriden Little League launched its fourth baseball season May 30,1952 at Ceppa Field with more than 600 fans on hand to watch the ceremonies and the Memorial Day doubleheader. The pee wee circuit opened its schedule in big league style as "Big Ed" Walsh, pitching immortal of the Chicago White Sox, and member of baseball's Hall of Fame, fired the inaugural pitch to catcher Police Chief Michael Carroll substituting for Mayor William Cahill. Warren Stephan, popular radio and television singing star acted as master of ceremonies for the occasion and sang the Star Spangled Banner. Reverend James F. McGrath of St. Joseph's Church delivered the invocation.

In the opening game the Elks Club edged the Malerba Royal Masters 9-8 and the Guernsey Chevrolets nipped the Moose Club nine 2-1.

A gallon of ice cream and a carton of Coca Cola, donated by local concerns, were awarded to the youngest player to hit the first home run. Elks Tom Gormley won the prize with a two run homer in the third inning.

"Little League Stadium" located on the corner of Britannia Street and Tremont Street officially opened on July 29,1952. The field opened for play when the Jack Barry All Stars faced the Guilford Shore Line League All Stars in the opening game of the 1952 District 4 tournament.
With seating facilities of 1,150 fans, the Little League Field represented the combined efforts of people from all walks of life.

Regular season Little League games were played at Falcon Park, Columbus Park, Washington Park, Bronson Avenue Field, and "Little League Stadium".

The 1952 Meriden Little League Championship was won by Pembek Oil of the Jack Barry League.

Members of the Pembek Oil team were: Sammy Kalmanowitz, Ralph Musto, Hainies, Bruce Gardinier, Jim Graham, Marty Tempe, Garlock, Harry Burgees, Ralph McKenna, Phil L'Heureux, Burns, Oischefski,, Ted Maguder, Rogez, Cardillo, and McCullum They were managed by Donald Caley.

Pembeks Win Pee-Wee City Title Again
Harry Burgees pitched a two hitter as the Pembek Oilers of the Jack Barry Division won their second consecutive city championship with a 6-1 victory over Guernsey Chevrolets of the Ed Walsh Division , on Sunday August 30,1952. In the first game of the best of two, Ralph Musto pitched a no-hitter as Pembek won 13-0. Sammy Kalmanowitz went 2-3 in the opener with a home run to lead the victors.

District 4 Tournament Play
Meriden Little League sent two All Star teams to play in the 1952 District 4 tournament. Meriden Little League hosted its first District Tournament, July 29,1952, at the brand new "Little League Stadium" located on the corner of Britannia Street and Tremont Street. Following a brief but colorful ceremony Ralph Musto hurled the Jack Barry All-Stars to a 5-2 victory over the visiting Gilford All-Stars in the opening round of the District 4 playoffs of the state Little League tourney before 1,700 fans at the new Little League Stadium. Musto gave up only 2 hits and struck out 13 in his six innings on the mound. Sam Kalmanowitz and Marty Tempe provided the offensive power for the Barry nine with 2 hits and 2 RBI's apiece.
It was only fitting that the Meriden Jack Barry All-Stars should win the opening game and first ever game played at the North End Little League Stadium. Breathtaking in its baseball beauty the field was the result of long weeks and months of effort by dozens of hard working Meriden citizens.

More than 1,200 fans packed the new North End Little League Field as the Wallingford All-Stars blanked the Ed Walsh All-Stars 8-0 on July 30,1952. Dave Barillaro, Tommy Tenza, Wayne Vumback, and Patsey Papandrea played well for the Ed Walsh nine.

The Jack Barry All-Stars were eliminated from tourney play on August 3,1952 by the New Haven National All-Stars 10-1. The loss ended the Jack Barry All-Stars hope to play in the District 4 finals, as they fell before a record breaking crowd of 1,800 fans. Dick Klinski, Meriden's shortstop, came through with a trio of eye-opening defensive plays that won him the plaudits of the crowd.
Mrs. Lou Gehrig, mother of the immortal Lou Gehrig, was a surprise visitor as the district four playoff moved toward completion. The mother of the famed Yankee first baseman was as impressed as the 1,800 fans who saw young Pat DeMaio of New Haven handcuffed the Barry Stars, allowing only 1 run on 2 hits and hitting 2 home runs.

1952 Jack Barry League All-Stars
Walt Mierzejewski, Sammy Kalmanowitz, Ken Salka, Ralph Musto, Dick Marcantonio, Artie DeChamplain, Garry Leslie, Harry Burgess, Bill Dontigney, Phil L'Heureux, John Knowles, Marty Tempe, Jack Clancy, Dick Klinski and Mike Anziano. Coached by Dick Machnik and Donald Caley.

1952 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
Peter Dunlop, Tommy Tenza, Wayne Vumback, Patsey Papandrea, Terry Hoffman, Joe Zangari, Dave Barillaro, Paul Iwanicki, Danny Stevens, Dick Spencer, Bruce Hiland, Jim Berardino, Chris Decker, and Al Kwolek. Coached by Johnny Berardino and Henry Lapuc.

Baseball Legend Connie Mack makes a visit to the World Series, and the league now encompasses more than 1,500 programs. Connecticut's Norwalk Nationals win the World Series title in 1952. This marks the second consecutive year a Connecticut team wins the title.

Members of the Moose Club team were: Dave Barillaro, Fred Link, Bobby Bob Salka, Tommy Borkowski, Bobby Otfinoski, Bruce Molloy, R.Petit, P. Lupac, Stohr, Havey, Acabchuck, and Terry Hoffman. They were managed by Henry and George Lapuc .

Moose Club Wins LL City Title
The Moose Club of the Ed Walsh Division romped to a 4-0 win over Pembek Oil of the Jack Barry Division on Sunday September 1,1953, before 450 fans at Little League Stadium. Southpaw Dave Barillaro manufactured a slick two-hitter, fanning six and walking one to post his 12th win against one lose this year. Dave Barillaro, Tommy Borkowski, and Terry Hoffman played well in the field and at the plate for the winners. Big Ed Walsh, former major league pitching great was a guest in the pressbox during the game and delivered an inspiring address during the trophy presentations.

District 5 Tournament Play
Meriden Little League sends three All Star teams to play in the District 5 tournament. It marked Meriden's fifth straight season of participation in the Nutmeg State All-Star tournament competition, its first in District 5. The Jack Barry All-Stars faced the Ed Walsh All-Stars in the opening round while the Connie Mack Stars received a first round bye.

With 12-year old Dave Barillaro manufacturing a jim-dandy five-hitter and turning in a 11 strikeout pitching performance, and Terry Hoffman driving in four runs, the Big Ed Walsh All-Stars eliminated the Jack Barry All-Stars 11-2 before 800 spectators at Little League Stadium in Meriden. Jack Clancy went two for two at the plate for the Barry Stars.

New tournament and regular season rules for this year states that a pitcher cannot pitch in two successive games and can only hurl 12 innings during a calendar week (Monday through Sunday).

A magnificent two-hitter, 15 strikeout pitching performance by easy-going Dick Spencer and the blazing bat of Patsy Papandrea carried the high-stepping Ed Walsh Little League All-Stars to a solid 6-1 triumph over the Connie Mack Stars in the local finals of the District 5 tournament before 650 fans on Saturday afternoon, August 2,1953, at Little League Stadium. Supplying the heavy artillery for the victors was Patsy Papandrea, who homered, drove in two runs, and went three-for-three at the plate. Bob Szydlo scored the lone Mack run and collected one hit for the losers. An oddity of the game was that the Walsh defense didn't come up with a single assist.

Led on by a tremendous three-run homer run blast by slugging Patsy Papandrea, the high-riding Meriden Big Ed Walsh All-Stars moved into the finals of the District 5 tournament as the defeated the powerful Waterbury Nationals 8-3, before 600 fans at Ansonia's Pratt Field. Dave Barillaro struck out four batters for the victory and Dick Spencer, Chris Decker, Patsy Papandrea, Dave Barillaro, and Terry Hoffman provided the offensive power.

The Ansonia All-Stars applied a 10-0 whitewashing upon the Meriden Big Ed Walsh All-Stars to capture the District 5 Little League tournament championship at Pratt Field in Ansonia before 1,100 fans. Dick Spencer pitched a strong game for the Meridenites but ran into trouble as the defense committed 4 costly errors. Wayne Vumback and Dick Spencer had one hit apiece for the Walsh Stars.

1953 Jack Barry League All-Stars
Bill Roberts, Frank "Skipper" Cammarata, Tommy O'Brien, Bruce Gardinier, Don Prigitano, John Garlock, Phil Olschefski, Dick Olschefski, Jack Clancy, Bob Davis, Nick Azzolina, Harry Burgess, Phil L'Heureux, Walt Gumkowski, Ronnie Haines, Dave Barlett, and Jay Muli. Coached by Phil Olschefski and Dan Caley.

More than 400 fans turned out to witness the official opening of Meriden's sixth Little League season on May 30,1954, at Little League Stadium. Sundays openers were impressively presented to the large turnout as the local VFW Post five-man color guard led the traditional parade to the flag pole. More than 200 dignitaries, Little League officials and approximately 180 uniformed small fry players doffed their hats and baseball caps as the Washington Park Drum Corps played the national anthem.

Big Ed Walsh, Hall of Fame immortal and one of the game's greatest pitchers, lauded the purpose of Little League in his main address. "I wouldn't miss coming to this opening day for anything in the world," said the famous White Sox mound ace. He advised everyone to support Little League and to "attend as many games as possible" to encourage the youngsters on the field.

William Gleason served as master of ceremonies and Rev. Herbert R. Peterson lead the assembled crowd in the invocation. James "Jimmy" Burns, one of the city's most popular sports personalities and former semi-pro star, got the season underway as he tossed out the first pitch. The former infielder in the old Connecticut League, Burns enjoyed many successful years as a coach of amateur clubs in town. He served as instructor for many years at Columbus Park. A Little League Championship Trophy was named in the honor of James Burns when Meriden Little League got its first taste of Little League in 1949. The Burns Trophy was permanently retired last year when the Moose Club nailed down the third "leg" in city series competition. The only other small fry team to hold the trophy was the Pembek Oilers, ex-city champs, winning twice. Joseph Noonan, acting Mayor in the absence of Henry Altobello, recuperating from an operation, and Fred Manderville praised the efforts of Little League.

In opening day action, the mighty Moose Club, defending city champions, thundered to an 11-1 victory over the Eagles Club in a Big Ed Walsh contest. In the second game of the inaugural doubleheader, the Hamrah Ruggers defeated the Meriden Savings Bank entry 5-3. Terry Hoffman and Bruce Molloy combined their talents in pitching a one-hitter. Molloy aided his own cause with a double and a pair of singles. Dave Osborne, Hamrah's hurler, spun a slick two-hitter in going the distance. His opponent, Billy Roberts, fired a creditable four-hitter and struck out eight. Bobby Szydlo had two doubles and three RBI's for the winners.

Regular season Little League games were played at Falcon Park, Columbus Park, Washington Park, Bronson Avenue Field, and "Little League Stadium".

There was no 1954 Meriden Little League Championship. Because of a national ruling from Little League headquarters, there was no city series in 1954. The ruling allowed local playoffs to resume for the 1955 season.

District 1 Tournament Play
Meriden enters its sixth straight season of participation in the Nutmeg State All-Star tournament competition, its first in District 1.

The Connie Mack All-Stars, riding high on a smart no-hit no-run game by fireballing Phil Massicotte, defeated the Berlin All-Stars 18-0 before a large crowd in East Berlin on July 27,1954. It marked the first ever victory for the Connie Mack League, now in its second year of play. Twelve-year old Phil Massicotte struck out 17 of the 18 batters he faced and walked four batters. Phil Kopcza and Massicotte homered for the Mack nine. Tommy DeMonte went 3-4 while Jim Petroske, Bob Szydle, Tom Martin, and Fred Hobson collected two hits each.

Meriden's Jack Barry All-Stars dropped a 10-6 game to the Middletown Moose League array before 600 fans at Meriden's Little League Stadium, July 27,1954. Neal McCollom slammed a two run homer to give the Barry's a short-lived 2-1 lead in the first frame. Ronnie Haines, collected two hits and played well in the field for the Barry nine.

In a rain shortened four-inning contest, the Connie Mack All-Stars fell to the Bristol McCabe-Waters All-Stars 5-1 at Meriden's Little League Stadium. Tommy Martin pitched well and hit a home run for the Mack Stars.

The Plainville All-Stars came from behind to defeat the Ed Walsh All-Stars 4-1, before 400 fans, in Plainville. The game was resumed in the top of the fourth as a result of a postponement caused by rain, with Ed Walsh leading 1-0. Terry Hoffman, Steve Dynder, Wayne Vumback, Paul Lapuc, and Frank Rudini played well for the Walsh nine.

1954 Jack Barry League All-Stars
Carter Nelson, Joel Rategan, Tom Sargalski, Jay Muli, Nick Azzolina, Neal McCollom, Ronnie Haines, Phil L'Heuruex, Tommy Steves, Dick Olschefski, Wally Gumkowski, Charlie Kelly, Tom O;Brien, Ronnie Nalbandian, Albin "Butch" Lis, and Bob Michalski. Co-Coached by Jimmy Ullman and Frank Cammarta.

1954 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
Bruce Molley, Mike Milewski, Frank Rudini, Terry Hoffman, Peter Havey, Wayne Vumback, Barry Booth, Bobby Salka, Jimmy Kennedy, Jack Acabchuk, Steve Dynder, Dick Crane, Kenny Bell, Jim Neville, Henry Simmons, and Paul Lapuc. Co-Coached by Dave Wodatch, and Henry "Hank" Simmons, with James Fuda as assistant coach.

Blessed with perfect weather, the Meriden Little League ushered in its seventh successive campaign on Sunday, May 30,1955, as over 500 fans were on hand. Big Ed Walsh, Hall of Fame pitcher, who got out of a sick bed with a bad case of arthritis, delivered a stirring address in the role of principal speaker, was accorded a standing ovation as he headed home immediately following the pre-game ceremonies.

Others who gave fine talks were Mayor Henry D. Altobello, Police Sgt. Amos Matteucci representing the Police Department, City Recreation Superintendent Fred Mandeville Jr., William Malerba, Carl Johnson, and William Krock. Rabbi Albert N. Troy rendered the invocation. Joe Coffey served as the master of ceremonies. The Washington Park Junior Combination Corps. and the Veterans of Foreign Wars color guard of Commander Bob Gillette, Harry Levine, Robert Koozmitch, Hugo Hunt, and Carl Peruti participated in the parade march to the flag pole along with the uniformed pee-wee teams, coaches, and officials.

In opening day action, Meriden Welding posted a 11-4 triumph over Guernsey Chevrolet. Jim Neville was the winning, as he pitched four-hit ball and struck out six batters. Joe Tomassietti (Guernsey) and Frank Rudini (Welders) hit home runs. In the second game, a slick seven-hit pitching performance by Tommy O'Brien along with some heavy hitting stickwork on the parts of Tim Stevens (2-3, 1- HR), Tommy Myers (1-4), and O'Brien (2-3) saw Pembek Oil trip CIO by a 9 to 6 score.

Members of the Gilmartin Motor Rams team were: Paul Danials, Pomian, Terry Wanat, Allan Wieland, Bill Wiegert, Dick Chmura, Gibbons, Jack Lamarine, Smith, Galucci, Gumprecht, Fritz, and Tommy Tupay. They were coached by Chet Chmura

Gilmartin Rams Cop City Little Loop Title
The Gilmartin Rams, Connie Mack division titlist, captured the city Little League Championship by whipping CIO, 4-1 Monday September 5,1956 before a big gallery at Little League Stadium. Bill Wiegert beat the Jack Barry entry by tossing a five-hitter, striking out nine and walking only two. Bill Wiegert, Pomian, and Tommy Tupay had hits for the winners. Dick Gumkowski allowed only three hits in taking the lose.

District 1 Tournament Play
Meriden Little League sends three All-Star teams to play in the District 1 Tournament. Fifteen teams are entered in the 1955 District 1 Tournament. A new rule calls for towns with more than one league operating in their community to play a one-game elimination in order to decide a city finalist to enter the second round competition.

Using a 6 run first inning, the Big Ed Walsh All-Stars eliminated the Connie Mack All-Stars from District Number 1 play, 7 to 4, before a large crowd at Little League Stadium. Mike Siavrakas, Gene Jarvis, Pete Havey, Joe Tomassetti, Hank Simmons, and Bob Fajkowski provided the offensive power. Paul Daniels had two hits for the Mack Stars. Bruce Molloy and Bob Chester turned in the top fielding plays of the game.

The Ed Walsh All-Stars smashed out a whopping total of five home runs to sink the Jack Barry All-Stars, 11 to 7, and cop the local playoffs in the State District No. 1 Tournament before 500 fans at Little League Stadium. Bruce Molloy struck out 10 in going the distance for the Walsh nine. Wally Gumkowski hit two home runs and Tommy O'Brien one for the Barry nine. Joe Tomassetti, Mike Stavrakas, Norm Fontaine, Hank Simmons, and Dick Petit hit home runs for Ed Walsh.

The Deep River-Essex All-Stars defeated the Ed Walsh All-Stars 1-0 to eliminate the Walsh nine from District 1 Tournament play. Catcher Frank Rudin was forced to leave the game in the second inning with a broken finger on his right hand. A foul tip caught him squarely on the third finger. Rudin was the top Walsh hitter with a .630 average. Bill Kurtz struck out nine for the Walsh Stars. Henry "Hank" Simmons had two of the five Ed Walsh hits.

1955 Jack Barry League All-Stars
Tom O'Brien, Tim Stevens, Frank "Skipper" Cammarati, John Burkhardt, Tom Meyers, Ronnie Nalbandian, Bob Miehalski, Don McKenna, Carter Nelson, Don Savago, Jim Williams, Wally Gumkowski, Dick Gumkowski, and Dick Olschefski. Phil Olschefski CIO coach and former well-known semi-pro baseball standout and Frank Cammarata of the Pembek Oilers were the coaches.

1955 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
Bruce Molley, Peter Harey, Dick Petit, Jimmie Neville, Mike Stavrakas, Frank Rudini, Bob Fajkowski, Gene Jarvis, Norm Fontaine, Joe Tomassetti, Henry "Hank" Simmons, Bill Kurtz, Ronnie Salka, Eddie Sodel, and Bob Greenberg. Coached by Jim Fuda and Dave Wodatch.

Local Little League opened its eighth season with a colorful ceremony as pitching immortal "Big Ed" Walsh of the Chicago White Sox and member of the Baseball's Hall of Fame was on hand to deliver the main address. Also making short talks were Mayor Henry Altobello, Chief of Police Michael B. Carroll, Phil Olschefski chairman of the Little League Board of Directors, and Chet Chmura Connecticut Little League District 1 Director. Herb Habershon league scorer was on hand and Rev. George Battle delivered the invocation

Over 600 fans turned out to see the Gilmartin Rams and the Elks Club post opening day victories. In the opener, Richie Chmura hit two home runs and Jimmie Gibbons struck out 12 batters in the Rams 8-1 victory. In the second game, Ward Redman struck out 10 in leading the Elks Club to a 6-2 win over the Malerba Royal Masters.

With over 400 spectators on hand, the South Meriden Art Hills League opened its first year with colorful pre-game ceremonies on May 29,1956. "Big Ed" Walsh delivered the key address. Four players presented Mrs., Louise Hills, widow of the beloved Art Hills, with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Other guests were Jimmy Burns, an old-time Meriden baseball great, Phil Olschefski chairman of the Meriden Little League Board of Directors, Joe Budwitz, Bill Gleason, and the Rev. Alfred Jaenicke of Holy Angels Church. Art Hills was a one time baseball player and coach for the old South Meriden Majors.

In the first game of opening day, Barney's Oil eked out a 15 to 14 victory over Muirson Label. In the second game the Majors defeated Bailey's Laundry 24-22. Games were played at the Meadow Street Field, in South Meriden.

Regular season Meriden Little League games were played at Falcon Park, Columbus Park, Washington Park, Bronson Avenue Field, and "Little League Stadium".

The 1956 Meriden Little League Championship was won by the C.I.O. of the Jack Barry Little League.

Members of the C.I.O team were:Bill Krock, Peter McKenna, Frank Krystock, George Budzinack, Dick Gumkowski, Jack Dillmuth, Dave Mulanaphy, Richie Roberts, Ron Roberts, Fleming, Stopko, Al St John, and Bobby Ingras. Coached by Phil Olschefski and Al "Lefty" St John.

C.I.O. Cops Pee Wee Title for Jack Barry
George Budzinack's superb one-hit pitching performance behind a 15-hit attack by CIO helped the Jack Barry Division win the City Little League Championship by a 18-1 margin. Frank Krystock went 4-4 with his third home run of the city series to pace the winners. Peter McKenna, George Budzinack, Dick Gumkowski, and Jack Dillmuth chimed in with a pair of base blows.

Meriden Little League opened its 9th season of competition Saturday May 18,1957. On hand for the pre game ceremony was John "Whitey" Prurek, Brooklyn Dodgers baseball scout and ex-Insilco star, Mayor Henry Altobello, Fred Mandeville, city recreation superintendent, Chet Chmura, state District 4 director, and Police Lieut. Amos Matteucci. The Rev Maurice Soucy, assistant pastor of the St. Laurent Church gave the innovation.

In opening day action, Bobby Horozy pitched a two hitter, and struck out 16 batters as the Elks Club blanked the Malerba Royal Masters 6-0. In the second game, Danny Driscoll fashioned six-hit ball and whiffed 10 as the Gilmartin Rams defeated Hamrah Rug 11-3.

The Art Hills League completed its second year of league play on August 21,1957 as Bailey's Laundry defeated Barney's Oil 4-3. George Falis pitched six-hit ball for the winners. Losing pitcher Jim Watson pitched a five-hitter in taking the loss. Bobby Benjamin scored the winning run in the bottom of the sixth after doubling, advancing to third on an infield out, and scoring on a passed ball.

Regular season Meriden Little League games were played at Falcon Park, Columbus Park, Washington Park, Bronson Avenue Field, and "Little League Stadium".

The 1957 Meriden Little League Championship was won by the Moose Club of the Big Ed Walsh League.

Members of the Moose Club team were: John Billingsiea, Dick Busa, Don DeVito, Dick Correll, Paul Zajac, Peter Lapuc, Jim Fuda, Frank Ruzycki, Jagoda, Lemkewich, Hank Bundock, and John Stewart. Coached by Jim Fuda.

Moose Wins City Little League Championship
Flashing splendid form, fight-hander John Billingsiea hurled a three-hitter and smashed across a pair of runs with a double as the Moose Club of the Ed Walsh Division tipped the Elk's Club 4-2, before 300 fans at Little League Stadium. Bob Horozy pitched a five-hitter for Jack Barry and took the lose. Paul Zajac collected three of the five Moose hits with a trio of singles, while Jim Fuda turned in a strong game on defense.

District 1 Tournament Play
Meriden Little League did not send All Star teams to play in the District 1 tournament. Reason...unknown!

1957 Jack Barry League All-Stars
None

1957 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
None

1957 Connie Mack All-Stars
None

The first non-American team to win the World Series is one from Monterrey Mexico. Angel Macias pitches the first perfect game in a World Series championship.

Meriden Little League opened its 10th season as Rev. Bernard Butcher, pastor of St. Mary's Church delivered the invocation. Speakers included Police Lieutenant Amos Matteucci, District 5 Little League Director Chet Chmura and G. William Malerba, member of the Park-Recreation Board. The VFW Post performed the color guard and Bill Knock was the master of ceremonies. The Kensington St. Paul Corps and the Yalesville Ancient's Junior Drum and Fife Corps paraded the grounds.

Eddie Robinson of Meriden Welding pitched a no-hit, no-run, game in the season opener over the Moose Club, 9-0. Robinson struck out 15 batters, fanning 10 of the first 11 he faced. A steady drizzle limited the crowd turnout to about 200, on May 12,1958. In the nightcap, CIO defeated the Pembek Oil nine, 9-4. Pitcher Steve Elkins went the distance for CIO.

Bailey's Laundry captured the Art Hills League crown for the second year in a row with a 15-0 win over Muirson Label behind a no-hit, no-run, hurling of Bob Benjamin. Benjamin struck out nine batters and also hit a home run.

Regular season Little League games were played at Falcon Park, Columbus Park, Washington Park, Bronson Avenue Field, and "Little League Stadium".

The 1958 Meriden Little League Championship was won by the Eagles Club of the Big Ed Walsh League.

Members of the Eagles Club team were:John Gurtowski, Billy Soroka, Ronnie Soroka, Bill Huntley, Dick Katz, Howie Ridley, Ronnie Rosadini, Lenny Cheerman, John Mik, Joe Martinell, Roger Keene, Jimmie Hessel, and John Vikinetz. Coached by Tom Tempe and John Gurtowski.

Eagles Capture City Little League Crown
Twelve year old John Gurtowski of the Eagles stopped the Meriden Savings Bank of the Connie Mack division, 5-1 before a good turnout at Little League Stadium, Thursday August 7,1958. Gurtowski was in control all the way as he spun a two-hitter while striking out six. John Mik hit a solo home run, his fifth of the year, and Gurtowski had a single and a double for the winners. Shortstop Pet Grupe accounted for the lone Bankers run.

District 5 Tournament Play
After a two year absence, Meriden Little League sends three All Star teams to play in the District 5 tournament.

The Connie Mack All-Stars crashed through with a heart-stopping 1 to 0 victory in extra innings over the Thomaston All-Stars. Over 600 fans were on hand at Little League Stadium, July 22,1958. Meriden's lone tally came when Ralph Mazzocchi doubled to center, Paul Nakos drilled a single moving Ralph to third, and Mark Cohen infield grounder scored Mazzocchi. Pitcher Dale Dunlop fanned 7 in going the distance for the Mack Stars.

On July 27,1958, Berlin All-Stars defeated the Mack Stars 9-6, Bristol McCabe-Waters blanked the Jack Barry All-Stars 4-0, and Southington defeated the Ed Walsh All-Stars 3-2, eliminating all 3 locals from tournament play. John Donnelly was the only Barry player to get a hit as Bristol's Jim Paviec fanned 13 while giving up only one hit. Jimmy Oatis hit a home run for the Walsh Stars to account for the two Walsh runs.

1958 Jack Barry League All-Stars
Tommy Mason, Joe Barber, Butch Jagoda, John Donnelly, Steve Elkins, John Lemkewich, Fran Gagne, Tom Jarboe, and Pete McGuiness. Coached by Fred Cavallo and Art Mason.

1958 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
Eddie Robinson, Bill Soroka, Jimmie Oatis, John Mik, Bob Sokolowski, Don DiVito, John Gurtowski, Frank Ruzycki, and Lenny Cheerman. Coached by Nick Anziano and Tommy Tempe.

1958 Connie Mack All-Stars
Danny Grabowski, Charlie Agli, Eddie Zelek, Bob Swiatek, Ralph Hillburn, Dale Dunlop, Ralph Mazzocchi, Grupe, Paul Nakos, Mark Cohen, Bill Loiko, Charlie Millsback, and John Popieniek. Coached by Eddie Stevens and Chet Dunlop.

Monterrey Mexico, strikes again, making their team the first one to win consecutive World Series titles. Hector Torres, who later would play in the majors, played for Monterrey, and Rick Wise, who would also later play major league ball, is on the Portland, Ore., team.

Southpaw Jim Grodzicki fanned 14 and permitted only two hits, May 16,1959, as he pitched the Lyons Tool and Die teammates to a 5-1 victory over the Eagles Club in the opening game of the eleventh season of Little League Baseball in Meriden before 400 fans at Little League Stadium. Larry Pollens and Tommy Satler belted home runs to lead the Lyons team to victory. Teammates Peter Smith and Richie Altieri chipped in with two hits each. In the second game, Meriden Roofing defeated Roman Oil 8 to 6. Dale Dunlop led the Roofers and Larry David hit a two-run homer for the losers.

Joe Coffey, who served as first president of the local "kid" loop in 1949, acted as master of ceremonies at the opening day program, read good luck telegrams from Ted William's, Joey Jay, Big Ed Walsh, and Jack Barry, coach of the Holy Cross nine and former member of the Philadelphia Athletics' "million dollar infield."
The Rev. August Lutz of Liberty Street Baptist Church delivered the invocation. The V.F.W. was furnished the color guard. Also on hand were Chet Chmura, State District 5 Little League Director, the Rev Robert Keating, Fred Mandville Jr., city recreation superintendent, Police Lt. Amos Matteucci, and Fred Cavallo, chairman of the LL Board of Directors.

1959 Art Hills LL Championship goes to Barney's Oil
Barney's Oil beat defending champion Bailey's Laundry 1-0 to win the 1959 Art Hills Little League Championship game. Jim Frederick pitched a no-hit, no-run game for Barney's. Wayne Talbot took the lose for the laundrymen. Carl Bongiovanni scored the games only run in the bottom of the sixth inning. Wayne Wright, Jack Killeen, Terry Bongiovanni, Mark Stevens, Carl Bongiovani, Jim Frederick, and Tom Livingston played well for the winners. Barney's Oil was coached by Norb Wruck.

Regular season Little League games were played at Falcon Park, Columbus Park, Washington Park, Bronson Avenue Field, and "Little League Stadium".

The 1959 Meriden Little League Championship was won by the Meriden Roofing of the Connie Mack League.

Members of the Meriden Roofing team were: Dale Dunlop, Paul Nakos, Ronnie Amundson, Bruce Allen, Paul Nakos, Elvin Jimenez, Larry Misorski, John Pronnvost, John Zolnick, Jack Shorr, Mike Mickowski, Mark Zagorski, Dick Zipoli, Lee Spear, Micky Rochette, and Bob Bobrowski. Coached by Chet Dunlop and Manual Moranti.

Roofers Nip Kiwanis 7-6, for City Pee-Wee Crown
Mike Micowski ripped a line single to right off Lanny David with one out in the final inning to knock in the tying and wining run as Meriden Roofing of the Connie Mack League scored a thrilling 7-6 victory over the Kiwanis Club of the Ed Walsh League. Over 250 spectators were on hand at Little League Stadium August 26,1959. After the Kiwanis scored three in the top of the sixth to take a 6-4 lead, Chet Dunlop's Roofers stormed back with three in their half of the sixth for the win. Bruce Allen, Paul Nakos, Mike Mickowski, Larry Misorski, and Dick Zipoli had hits for the winners.

District 5 Tournament Play
Meriden Little League sends three All Star teams to play in the District 5 tournament.

Wolcott All-Stars tied the game in the bottom of the sixth with a Stan Knapic two-run homer and sent the winning run across in the seventh to take a 3-2 victory and oust the Jack Barry All-Stars from State Tournament play before 400 fans at Little League Stadium. It was a tough pill for Meriden and Butch Jagoda to swallow. Butch turned "switch" pitcher on three occasions. He pitched right-handed the first three frames, giving up two singles and fanning five. He then turned to southpaw twirling until one away in the seventh and racked up nine more via the strikeout and one hit, Knapic two-run homer. In the seventh he switched back to right-handed style with one out. Second baseman Wint Filipek thrilled the crowd with a solo home run in the fifth inning.

Ralph Hillburn hit two whopping home runs and drove in all of his teams runs as Connie Mack All-Stars defeated Wallingford Nationals 6 to 2. Dale Dunlop hurled a sparkling three-hitter as he hung up nine strike outs while walking only three. Both of Hillburn's home runs carried some 250 feet and he missed hitting a third that was caught just short of the 175 foot wall.

Joe Morello struck out 14 batters and allowed only three hits as the Ed Walsh All-Stars blanked New Britain's Brunson-Heights All-Stars 5-0. Don DeVito hit his twelfth home run of the year over the centerfield wall and Larry Pollens also added a two-run shot to right field.

Errors were costly to the Connie Mack All-Stars as they dropped a 3 to 1 decision to Plainville, at Norton Park in Plainville. Meriden led 1-0 till the fifth inning where Plainville scored three runs to take a 3-1 lead. Dan Grabowski pitched well for the Mack Stars giving up only four hits while striking out three.

Jimmy Grodzicki allowed only three hits and fanned 13 and Don DeVito hit a pair of crushing homers as the Ed Walsh All-Stars defeated the Wallingford American All-Stars before 400 fans at Little League Stadium. DeViti's home runs marked the third in two tournament games and 14th of the year.

Don DeVito's electrifying 15th home run of the season and clutch pitching by Joe Morello propelled the Big Ed Walsh All-Stars into the District 5 finals as they defeated the Southington All-Stars 5 to 3 before over 600 fans at Pexto Field in Southington. Morello gave up six hits, walked one, and struck out seven. DeVito's two-run homer traveled 50 feet over the 175 foot leftfield fence in the third to give the Walsh Stars a 4-0 lead.

The Meriden Big Ed Walsh All-Stars defeated the McCabe-Waters All-Stars from Bristol 6-1 to win the State District Five Little League Tournament title before 700 fans at Little League Stadium, in Meriden. Not since 1950 has a Meriden All-Star team taken a district crown. That was the year the Jack Barry All-Stars beat Wallingford for the title and reached the Connecticut finals to lose to Bridgeport 2-0 before 10,000 fans at Middletowns Memorial Field. Jim Grodzicki posted his second tournament win as he scattered six hits, fanned eight, and issued one pass. Jim is the cousin of ex-St. Louis Cardinals Right-hander, Johnny Grodzicki, who also coached in the Cards chain. Don DeVito homered again for the locals, his 16th of the season and fifth of the tournament. Jack David, Lanny David, Bob Sokolowski, Bob Wisnewski, and Jim Grodzicki had hits for the Walsh Stars.

State Tournament Play
Tommy Slater and Lanny David supported Joe Morello's stout pitching with some solid hitting as the Big Ed Walsh All-Stars defeated the Milford Americans 6 to 1, before 350 fans at Ralph Clarkson Field in Milford. Slater rocketed a two-run homer and Lanny David produced a pair of RBI singles for the victors. Morello handcuffed the Milford team with five hits, struck out twelve, and walked only one for his third tournament win. Danny Cook, Larry Pollens, and Tommy Slater also had hits for the Walsh Stars.

The Big Ed Walsh All-Stars made it six in a row as they turned back the Seymour George Hummel All-Stars, 7 to 3, in the quarter final round before over 600 fans at Casagrand Stadium in Seymour. Jim Grodzicki broke a 3-3 tie with a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth. The Walsh Stars hit a total of four homers. Belting home runs along with Grodzicki were, Don DeVito, Tommy Slater, and Danny Cook. Don DeVito hit his sixth home run in as many tournament games, 17th of the year, and hiked his RBIs total to 11 in tournament play. Jim Grodzicki fanned three, walked one, and gave up four hits for his third tournament win.

The Bridgeport North-End All-Stars defeated the Ed Walsh All-Stars 12-3 in the semi-final district game at Machines Field in Bridgeport. A crowd of 1,100 saw Park City North Enders, District Two Champions, win and move to the final against Waterford. Larry Pollens and Jim Grodzicki were the only Walsh players to get a hit. The Walsh nine jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the third, however, it was short lasted as the Bridgeport team pushed across eight runs in the top of the fourth and never looked back.

1959 Jack Barry League All-Stars
Bill Salka, Dave DeMauro, Sonny Williams, Johnny Bafuma, Wint Filipek, Steve Rogalski, Orlando "Butch" Jagoda, Bob Gibney, Steve Adamczyk, Charley Driscoll, Whit McGuiness, Mike Faeth, Steve Rafferty, Steve Elkins, Ray Pomian, and Joe Palzuszewski. Coached by Art Mason and Joe Jagota.

1959 Connie Mack All-Stars
Dale Dunlop, Paul Nakos, Ronnie Amundson, Bruce Allen, Bob Swiatek, Dan Grabowski, Charlie Agli, Ralph Hillburn, Larry David, Tommy Havrilla, Chris Siavrakas, John Dominello, Denny Girard, Neal Orsini, Tom Popieniek, and Jimmy Knell. Coached by Chet Dunlop and Manual Moranti.

Dr. Creighton J. Hale, the then Director of Safety Research for Little League Baseball, developed what we know as today's protective helmet. The league has more than 5,000 leagues.

1949....The Moose Club............Meriden LL
1950....The Moose Club..........Ed Walsh LL
1951....Pembek Oil................Jack Barry LL
1952....Pembek Oil................Jack Barry LL
1953....The Moose Club..........Ed Walsh LL
1954....No Series
1955....Gilmartin Rams.....Connie Mack LL
1956....C.I.O.........................Jack Barry LL
1957....The Moose Club..........Ed Walsh LL
1958....Eagles Club.................Ed Walsh LL
1959....Meriden Roofing....Connie Mack LL

Meriden Little League District Championships 1949-1959