Led by the Washington Park Drum and Bugle Corps, the Jack Barry Little League opened its 21st Little League season on Sunday, May 3,1970. Ed Carr, president of the League was the speaker and Reverend Perry Miller, Pastor of All Saints Episcopal Church gave the invocation. The first ball was thrown out by Sgt. Harry Foster of the Meriden Police Department.

The Jack Barry Little League A. Gawitt Fieldhouse,
over looking Carter Field, as it looked in 1970.
Photo courtesy Mrs. Carter-Pugh.

The Jack Barry Little League opening day 1970.
Photo courtesy Mrs. Carter-Pugh.

The highlight of the opening day ceremony was the dedication of little league field in the memory of John Carter, who served as president and held many positions with the league over a great number of years. A bronze plaque inscribed "To the memory of John Carter" was presented to his widow, Mrs. Mildred Carter. The Plaque was permanently attached to the little league fieldhouse as a lasting memory to Crater's efforts in behalf of the youths of the City of Meriden. The field has always been known as "Little League Stadium" since being built by volunteers in 1951~1952. The first game ever played on this field was between the Jack Barry All-Stars and the Guilford All-Stars on July 29, 1952, a game won by Jack Barry, 5-2.
In opening day action, the Elks Club defeated Aresco's 7-4 and Pembek Oil downed Guida's Dairy 7-5. In the second game, Pembek Oil took the lead in the first inning and never let go. Gary Gardner, Harrold Wagner, and Lloyd Brown all stole home for the winners. Lloyd and Brown each hit doubles and winning pitcher George Siering struck out 11 and walked five.

The Ed Walsh Little League opened its 21st season on May 4,1970 at Civitan Field. In the pre game ceremonies, trophies were presented to last years championship teams. Biestek Insurance won the league championship and Kevin Rogalski captured the batting title last year with a .477 batting average.
In opening day action, Zula's Golf nipped Kiwanis 2-1. Allen Craig was the hitting star for the winners as he banged out two hits and scored both runs. Kiwanis pitcher Jeff Rider hurled outstanding ball for the losers, striking out 13 batters in six innings.

The Connie Mack Little League opened their season on May 10,1970 as they honored their President Joseph Ingeno and Rev. Robert Angelo of the St. Joseph's Church provided the invocation.
In opening day action, Dick's Auto beat Roman Oil, 12-4, behind the five-hit pitching of Robert Dupuis and the batting of Paul Wisnionshi and Dupuis who each collected three hits. Oilman Tom Gostyla hit the leagues first home run.

With brief opening day ceremonies, the Art Hills Little League of South Meriden opened its season on May 11,1970.
In opening day action, the Somer Club, last years league and city champion, defeated Barney's Oil 13-0 at Habershon Field. Phil Wielock hurled a three-hitter and fanned nine over six innings of work. Bill David had a 4-for-4 night at bat which included two home runs, one a grand slam. John Mixey also had two hits for the winners. Paul Crone and Jack Haggett shared the pitching duties for Barney's.

Regular season Little League games were played at Civitan Club Field, Unison Club Field, Somer Stadium, and Carter Field

The 1970 Meriden Little League Championship was won by Hancock Pharmacy of the Big Ed Walsh Little League.

Members of the Hancock Pharmacy team were: Mark Phillips, Fred Hettrick, Andres Reyes, Pat Kenny, Paul Marut, Tom Spermer, Alvin Salgado, Pete, Stevens, Pete Toucey, Mike Marut, Herb Kenny, Luis Reyes, and Bob Sternberg. They were coached by Edwin Biestek and Frank Stevens.

Ed Walsh Wins City LL Title
Hancock's Pharmacy captured the Little League Championship on August 6,1970 by defeating the Somer Club 4-3 at Somer Stadium. The victory gave Hancock's the city title with a 3-0 record in the double elimination tournament. Bob Sternberg, a no-hit pitcher in the District 5 Tournament, allowed just one hit while fanning eight batters to lead the victors. Bill David of the Somer's club fanned 13 as he suffered his first lose in 3 years in a Somer Club uniform. Fred Hettrick and Sternberg led the winning attack, with Hettrick clouting two doubles and Sternberg hitting a two-run homer.

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

John Mongillo pitched a six-hitter as the Southington North All-Stars defeated the Jack Barry Stars 5-3 at Southington's Memorial Park. Lloyd Brown and Bob Veneziano collected two hits each in leading the Barry Stars. Also hitting safely for the Barry nine were Bill Bergeron, and George D'Annible.

Bill David hurled a no-hit, no-run ballgame as the Art Hills Little League All-Star team posted a 5-0 victory over Wolcott in the District 5 Tournament, July 22,1970. David faced only 19 batters in his six inning performance, striking out 10 and walking one. Hitting stars were Dan McInnus 2-for-4 with 2 RBI's, Phil Wielock a double with 1 RBI, Joe Dupuis one hit one RBI, and Cliff Schedler a solo home run. Joe Dupuis provided a superb defensive play in the fifth to secure the no-hitter.

The Ed Walsh Little League rode the two-hit pitching of Bob Sternberg to a District 5 Tournament victory over New Britain, 6-3, July 22,1970. Sternberg was touched for one run, struck out eight and walked just two in six innings. Mark Victor crashed a home run to lead the offense and Pete Toucey went 3-for-4 for the winners. Mike Marut also doubled and drove in two RBI's for the winners.

The Connie Mack Little League were defeated by the defending New England Champion, Southington South All-Stars, by a score of 11-6 at Unison Field, July 22,1970. Tom Miller hit a two-run homer for the locals and Mark Yule had one hit and one RBI.

The Ed Walsh All-Stars defeated the Prospect All-Stars 12-5, July 26,1970. Bob Sternberg 4-5, Pete Toucey 3-4 & 3 RBI's, Mike Marut 2-3, Dick Analowski 3-3 & 4 RBI's, and Mark Victor 2-4 lead a balanced offensive attack for the locals.

The Art Hills Little League All-Stars were eliminated from District 5 competition by Plainville in a 7-6 extra-inning contest. The South Meriden team saw a 6-2 lead disappear in the last half of the sixth inning and a sacrifice fly in the seventh by Plainville's Dave Higgins won it for the Plainville Stars. Harland Williamson hit a two-run homer, and Cliff Schaedler went 3-4 with 4 RBI's for the Hills nine.

Big Bobby Sternberg fashioned a no-hitter and struck out 15 batters to lead the Ed Walsh League All-Stars to a 6-0 win over Southington Southern at Civitan Field, July 27,1970. Rightfielder Gary Uhlman saved Sternberg's no-hitter in the final inning with a fantastic diving catch. Mark Victor hit a tremendous three run homer over the center field fence and Mike Marut and Gary Jakiela both collected two hits for the winners.

The Ed Walsh Little League captured the District 5 Championship, July 29,1970, with a run in the last of the sixth inning to defeat Plainville, 7-6 at Civitan Field. Mike Marut drew a bases loaded walk forcing in Gary Markowski with the winning run. Pete Toucey pitched five innings allowing 6 runs and striking out 6 and Jeff Ryder relived in the sixth, and pitched one inning striking out two for the save. The Walsh Stars banged out 11 hits and were lead by Mark Victor 2-3 & a home run, Bob Sternberg, Pete Stevens, and Dick Analowski collected two hits each.

State Sectionals Tournament Play
The New Haven Annex Little League defeated the Ed Walsh All-Stars 4-2 August 2,1970, at McGowan Field in New Haven. Bob Sternberg pitched for the locals and took the lose. Mark Victor slammed a home run for the Meriden stars, his sixth in tournament competition. The lose eliminated the locals from the State Sectionals Tournament.

1970 Jack Barry All-Stars
Lloyd Brown, Bob Veneziano, Bill Bergeron, George D'Annible, Lester Torres, Janiga, Scott Sundberg, Kevin Shanklin, George Siering, Gary Gardner, Harrold Wagner, Mike St.Peter, Galloil, and Tom McGoldrick. They were coached by John Dudzik and Fran Purcell.

1970 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars - District 5 Champions
Mike Marut, Mark Victor, Bob Sternberg, Pete Stevens, Wysocki, Dick Analowski, Gagliardi, Rossen, Dave Jakiela, Gary Uhlman, Markowski, Jeff Ryder, Rusell, and Pete Toucey. They were coached by Edwin Biestek.

1970 Connie Mack All-Stars
Tom Gostyla, Tom Miller, Manny Fillippides, Jim Scarfo, Mike Carabetta, Mike Papandrea, Tom Wodatch, George Pisarz, Neil DeAngelis, Mark Yule, Ray Dupuis, Mike Reale, Kieren Moore, Lee Tomassetti, Glen Hourigan, and Phil Pomposi. They were coached by Nick Scarfo and Rich Katz.

Opening day ceremonies for the Jack Barry Little League was held Sunday April 25,1971 at John E. Carter Field on Britannia Street. Rev. Paul Kenefek of Saint Rose Church provided the invocation and Auxiliary President Mary Zadrick threw out the first pitch.
In opening day doubleheader action, the Pembek Oilers and Aresco's Market each posted opening day wins. Pembek defeated Guida's 13-10. Jerry St.Hilaire led the Oilers with two doubles and Ed Purcell was the winning pitcher. In the second game, Aresco's downed Malerba's 4-2 behind the hitting and pitching of Brian Janiga.

The Connie Mack League opened its 1971 season on Monday, May 3,1971, with the traditional flag raising ceremony followed by the tossing of the first pitch by Al Fordiani, former Connie Mack President, to Alderman Paul McGinley.
In the opening game of the season, Hamrah Rug won a close game 14-11 over Meriden Roofing. Winning pitcher Greg Blessing had 11 strikeouts. Dan Pappalo was the losing pitcher. Tony Varrato had a single and a double for the winners.

The Ed Walsh Little League officially opened its 1971 season on Monday, May 3,1971, with league President William Krock announcing and tossing out the first pitch.
In opening day action, the Eagles ousted Zula's Golf 25-2, at Civitan Field. Bill Nessing was the winning pitcher and also collected 5 hits in six trips to the plate. John Voytek went 2-2 for Zula's.

Regular season Little League games were played at Civitan Club Field, Unison Club Field, Somer Stadium, and Carter Field.

The 1971 Meriden Little League Championship was won by Meriden Roofing of the Connie Mack Little League.

For reasons unknown, Jack Barry League did not participate in the city series tournament, as only 3 teams played in the Little League City Series this year. They were Hancock Pharmacy, Meriden Roofers, and the Somer Club.

The Jack Barry Little League opened its season, Sunday, April 30,1972, as the Washington Park Drum and Bugle Corps lead the players on the field. The Reverend Robert Tucker of St. Joseph's Church gave the invocation and Tom Maloney, well known local radio personality, acted as master of ceremonies. Mrs. Mary Zadrick, President of the Leagues Lady Auxiliary, threw out the first pitch to mark to opening of the season.
In opening day action, Aresco's defeated Pembek Oil 5-1 behind the one-hit pitching of Steve Sokol. Gary Sards struck out nine batters in a losing effort for the Oilers. Chet Fisher led the victors at the plate with a double. Ken Fahey had the lone Oiler hit.

The Ed Walsh Little League opened its season on Monday May 8,1972, at Civitan Field. Throwing out the first pitch was Civitan President Pete L"Heureux to Civitan VP George D"Annibale.
In opening day action, Biestek Insurance walloped Zula's Golf 15-2. Kevin Curry was the winning pitcher and stared at bat with three hits, two doubles, and a home run. The games big blow was a grand slam home run by Larry O'Dea.

In the Connie Mack opener, L&M Garage roared to a 12-3 victory over Dick's Electric at Unison Field, May 8,1972. Harvey Febles tossed a three-hitter to record the win for L&M and Steve Leary took the lose. Bill Gradzewicz led the winners hitting attack with a two-run home run. James Scarano went 2-2 for the Electric nine.

Regular season Little League games were played at Civitan Club Field, Unison Club Field, Somer Stadium, and Carter Field.

The 1972 Meriden Little League Championship was won by Hancock Pharmacy of the Ed Walsh Little League.

Members of the Hancock Pharmacy team were: Joe Gostkowski, Jim Marut, Greg Hancock, Andrew Reyes, Brian Dirgins, Pat Kenny, Dave Dirgins, Mark Phillips, Ron Wainright, Robert Chester, Bob Biestek, Paul Marut, John Curylo, and batboy Bill Biestek. They were coached by Edwin Biestek and Joe (Ace) Gostkowski.

Ed Walsh Wins City LL Title
Pat Kenny scored an unearned run in the last of the ninth inning to give Hancock's Pharmacy a 5-4 victory over the Carabetta Pavers and the Little League City Championship, August 15,1972, at Civitan Field. The game was highlighted by the combined 45 strikeout pitching performance of Mike DeMartin and Bob Biestek, Hancock struck for the game-winner thanks to three misplays by the Pavers. The Druggist swept the city crown with three straight wins in the double elimination tournament. The game started on Monday, July 14,1972, and was suspended by darkness.
Bob Biestek fanned 23 batters and allowing six hits to get the win. DeMartin fanned 22 batters and yielded five hits to take the lose. Mike Brown hit a two-run home run for the pavers.

Jack Barry LL Elks vs. Ed Walsh LL Hancocks in a City Series game at Civitan Field.
Photograph courtesy Scott McKay

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

Special tournament rules went into place this year that required various teams to enter a playdown round before entering the first round of the tournament. In the playdown round, Jack Barry played Yalesville and Ed Walsh played Connie Mack. Art Hills, from South Meriden, did not play in this opening round.

The Jack Barry All-Stars eliminated the Yalesville Stars 12-5 in a playdown game at Carter Field, Meriden.

The Ed Walsh All-Stars defeated the Connie Mack All-Stars 11-7 in the playdown game, July 18,1972, at Civitan Field.

Tom Jagoda ripped a single with two mates aboard in extra innings that propelled the Ed Walsh All-Stars to a 3-2 victory over Wallingford-Americans at Mario Riccio Field in Wallingford. Dan Ozycz and Andre Reyes, produced the first run while Kevin Curry knotted the score with a solo homer in the third. Curry pitched shutout ball over six innings.

The Jack Barry Stars battled back from a 5-4 deficit in a see-saw contest and eventually won 6-5 over McCabe-Waters League at Bristol. Tom Bergeron and Chet Fisher shared pitching duties for the locals. Bergeron, Chet Fisher, and Carlos Gonzales provided the offensive power for the Barry nine.

The Art Hills All-Stars went down to a 12-5 defeat at the hands of Bristol Edgewood, at Habershon Field, July 19,1972. Ralph Nocera and Tim Ryan paced the locals with two hits each.

The Jack Barry All-Stars defeated the Ed Walsh All-Stars, 5-2, July 21,1972. Carlos Gonzales and Mike Wrobel homered for the Barry Stars. Wrobel pitched 5 innings of two-hit ball, walked seven, and struck out two batters for the win. John Herbert pitched two-hit ball, struck out seven, and walked three for the Walsh nine. Daniel Ozycz and Kevin Curry had two hits each for the Walsh Stars.

The Jack Barry Little League fell out of District 5 Tournament play as they suffered a 10-3 defeat at the hands of Forestville, July 24,1972. Chet Fisher went the distance for the locals allowing 14 hits and ten runs, however, only three were earned. Fisher also went 2-3 at the plate for the locals. Jim Zerbe, Steve Sokol, and Tom Bergeron had one hit each for the Barry Stars.

Jack Barry Little League All-Stars, Photograph courtesy Scott McKay

1972 Jack Barry All-Stars
Tom Bergeron, Chet Fisher, Greg Saros, Mike Wrobel, Ken Fahey, Peter Bergeron, Scott McKay, Dean Hurley, John Benoit, Bob Winner, Wayne Fontanella, Ron Ostasiewski, Felix Morales, Jim Zerbe, Steve Sokol, and Carlos Gonzales. They were coached by Bill Harriot.

1972 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
Kevin Curry, Robert Biestek, Dion Carnot, Daniel Ozycz, Kevin Russell, Theodore Ogle, Thomas Jagoda, Michael Jakiela, Andre Reyes, John Herbert, David Victor, and John Voytek. They were coached by Edwin Biestek and John Stevens.

1972 Connie Mack All-Stars
Wayne Richardson, Bruce Pelatzhy, Marc McGinley, Steve Leary, Calvin Nololan, Jim Mueller, Tony Meagher, Dave Gonzalez, Juan Rivera, Jeff Kidder, Jim Otwell, Eric Nickerson, Tony Woznicki, Jeff Yule, and Scott DeDominicus. They were coached by Bob Anziano and Dave Katz.

1972 Art Hills All-Stars
Mark Browm, Michael DeMartin, Jim Swiatek, Tom Ludermann, William McMahon, Philip Vitali, Chris Beale, Ken Hollman, Gary Fouriner, Scott Petruzielo, Tim Ryan, Ralph Norcera, Bret Rivard, Paul Curry and Kerry Solomon. They were coached by Ed DiPersio and Bob Beale.

Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China won a fourth consecutive World Series championship for the Far East Region, defeatingEdison (Hammond, Ind.), 6-0.

The Jack Barry Little League opened its season, Monday, April 31,1973, as the Washington Park Drum and Bugle Corps lead the players on the field and the Reverend Robert Tucker of St. Joseph's Church gave the invocation followed by a brief opening day ceremony.
In opening day action, Gowrie Insurance defeated Malerba Tire 7-6 behind the five-hit pitching of Ron Dellastritto. Bob Francks gave up five-hits, hit a home run and a triple in a losing effort for the Tiremen. Paul Greaves of Malerba also homered.

After a brief opening day ceremony, the Connie Mack opened their season Tuesday, May 1,1973. In opening day action, Roman Oil roared to a 25-0 victory over Meriden Roofing at Unison Field. Dan Wodatch hit a home run, Pete Wodatch a tripled & double, Al Fordianr a double, and Jeff Mercier a double to lead the offense for the Oilmen.

The Ed Walsh Little League opened its season on Sunday May 6,1972, at Civitan Field. Bill Krock, league president, presented trophies to last years league and city champion Hancock Pharmacy.
In opening day action, Kiwanis walloped Hancock Pharmacy 9-2, with a 8 run fourth inning explosion. Pete Oman was the winning pitcher allowing only three hits. Danny Oruez homered for Kiwanis to lead the offense. Bob Biestek took the lose giving up only five hits. He also doubled for the Hancock nine.
In the second game Zula's Golf edged the Eagle's 8-7 behind the four-hit pitching of Mike Powers. John Zajac and Mike Cagarski tripled for Zula's to lead the winners.

Regular season Little League games were played at Civitan Club Field, Unison Club Field, Somer Stadium, and Carter Field.

The 1973 Meriden Little League Championship was won by Hancock Pharmacy of the Ed Walsh Little League.

Members of the Hancock Pharmacy team were: Bob Beistek, Bill Vicently, Pat Kenny, Joe Gostowski, John Curylo and ... They were coached by Edwin Beistek.

Ed Walsh Wins City LL Championship
Hancock's Pharmacy defeated Roman Oil, 5-0, Monday August 6,1973, at Unison Field to win the Meriden Little League Title. Bob Beistek, who had two home runs in Friday nights game was the winning pitcher. He led the Ed Walsh Champs by allowing three hits, striking out ten and belting the games only extra base hit, a double. Other hits besides Beistek's double were by Pat Kenny, Joe Gostowski, and John Curylo. Pete Wodatch, Dan Wodatch and Steve D'Annolfo singled for Roman Oil.

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

In the first round of District 5 Tournament play, all four local All-Star teams played at their home field, Wednesday, July 18,1973.

The Jack Barry All-Stars beat Southington Southern, 7-5, in a come from behind victory before several hundred fans at John Carter Field, Meriden, July 18,1973. The locals were sparked by power hitter Ricky Labruna, who featured a three run rally in the second inning with a two-run homer and Dean Hurley hit a solo homer in the third inning to break a 3-3 tie. Pete Bergeron came through with three hits in four trips to the plate for the locals. Mike Wrobel gave up six hits, walked five and struck out eight in six innings for the winners.

In a thriller, the Connie Mack All-Stars roared from behind with four runs in the home half of the sixth inning to eliminate the Wallingford Americans, 5-4, in Meriden, July 18,1973. Harvey Febles started the sixth-inning fireworks with a home run, then the Dan Wodatch singled, Bill Gradziwicz doubled and Al Fordiani had a run scoring single followed by second on a clean single to right field by Jim Mercier to drive in the winning run.

In South Meriden, the Art Hills All-Stars defeated the Yalesville Stars, 5-3, in South Meriden, July 18,1973. The Art Hills Stars rode the six-hit pitching of Tom Brooks added by Art Hills hits. Collecting two hits for the At Hills Stars were Rogus, Scott Seamen, Gary Fournier, Scott Petruzielo, Tom Brooks, and Tom Ludemann. Ken Chichepfer homered for Yalesville.

The Ed Walsh All-Stars scored early to turn back the Wallingford Nationals, 9-7 at Civitan Field , in Meriden, July 18,1973, Meriden. Bruce Wysocki struck out six, walked five and gave up seven hits for the win. Rich Shamock,Michael Powers, and Rich Shamock drove in runs with singles. Daniel Ozycz and Bruce Wysocki also hit singles for the winners.

In second round District 5 action, July 20,1973, the Ed Walsh All-Stars advanced to the semifinals with an 8-1 victory over intra-city rival Jack Barry. Dan Ozycz hit a two-run homer in the first inning and Pat Kenny had a pair of singles for the winners. Winning pitcher Dion Carnot allowed three hits, while striking out four and walking six. The lone Barry run was scored in the fifth, Pete Bergeron walked, went to third on a passed ball and scored on a balk. Michael Powers and Rich Shamock doubled for the winners.

Berlin clobbered the Art Hills All-Stars of South Meriden, 16-7, July 20,1973. Joe Rogus doubled and Scott Petruzielo hit two doubles for the Locals.

The McCabe-Waters demolished Connie Mack All-Stars 20-6, July 20,1973. James Mercier was the only bright spot for the locals with two doubles. Tom Mitorat, Shawn Granier, and Joe DeFillippi hit home runs for the winners.

The McCabe-Waters All-Stars of Bristol eliminated the Ed Walsh All-Stars, Tuesday July 24,1973, by a score of 12-5, at Civitan Field. Bristol's Joe Archambeoult whacked two home runs and Jay Rasmus one for the winners. Bob Biestek and Daniel Ozycz led the locals.

Jack Barry Little League All-Stars, Photograph courtesy Scott McKay

1973 Jack Barry All-Stars
Rick Labrune, Jonathan Davis, Michael Fischer, Marc DeMatteo, Glen Gelotti, Peter Bergeron, Jon Benoit, Scott McKay, Ken Daugherty, Mike Wrobel, Dean Hurley, Bruce Fontaine, Tom Baddeley, and Greg Rogoz. They were coached by John Wrobel.

1973 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
Daniel Ozycz, William Freeman, Peter Oman, Rich Shamock, Larry O'Dea, Bruce Wysocki, Jeffry Cossette, Patrick Kenny, Robert Biestek, John Curry,, Joseph Gostowski, Dion Carnot, Mattheew Sokolowski, and Michael Powers. They were coached by Ernie Freeman and George Cossette.

1973 Connie Mack All-Stars
William Grodziewicz, Edward Webb, Harvey Febles, Thomas Mitoray, Bryan Storey, Michael Casertano, James Seasons, Alfred Fordiani, James Mercier, Danial Wodatch, Tom Jarusso, Dan Brunet, Steve D'Annolfo, Fred Ramirez, John Casertano, Mark Viccbitto, and Vin Ieraci. They were coached by Dave Katz and Jim Pellegrino

1973 Art Hills All-Stars
Bob Melzmuff, Dave Femia, Billy Priebe, Keith Roy, Scott Seemann, Joe Rogus, Dave Gagnon, Gary Foufnier, Jim Anderson, Tom LaBissoniere, Tom Ludemann, Jim Leonardo, Rick Carlson, Scott Petruzielo, Tom Brooks, and Mark Kinard. They were coached by Al Daddario, Cal Casey, and Jim Frederick.

Dr. Creighton J. Hale is elected President of Little League Baseball, only the second full-time President in 35 years. Tainan Hsiung (Chinese Taipei) defeated Cactus (Tucson, Ariz.), 12-0 to win the World Series.

Al Zadrick, President of the Jack Barry Little League, led the opening day ceremonies on May 5,1974 at the John Carter Field on Britannia Street. The opening day ceremonies were high-lighted with the invocation by the Reverend A. Thompson, Pastor of the 1st Methodist Church and Mrs. Rita Purcell President of the Leagues Auxiliary who threw out the first pitch to mark the opening of the 1974 season.
In opening day action, Gowrie defeated Malerba 13-8, and the Elks Club clubbed Aresco's 9-3.

The Connie Mack Little League opened its season on Sunday May 5,1974 at Unison Field, on Lewis Avenue. Opening day ceremonies were led by league President Joe Ingeno who presented a trophy the Chet Roman, sponsor of the 1973 league champions. Roman also threw out the first pitch
Meriden Roofing defeated Hamrah Rug in the opener, 11-9. Home runs were hit by Mark Catrone, Mecuri, and Cuccaro.

Opening day ceremonies for the Ed Walsh Little League were held on Sunday May 5,1974 at Civitan Field on North Wall Street. In the opening ceremonies Anthony DeMatteo, president of the Civitan Club, threw out the first pitch to Gary Burt, chairman of the Parks and Recreation Commission. Anthony Egidio, District 5 Commissioner, read the Little League Creed in place of league President Bill Krock, who was in the hospital.
In opening day action Biestek Insurance nipped the Kiwanis Club, 4-4 behind the three-hit pitching of Bruce Wysocki.

Regular season Little League games were played at Civitan Club Field, Unison Club Field, Somer Stadium, and Carter Field.

Following a brief opening day ceremony on Saturday April 26,1975, Pembek Oil defeated Guida's, 8-7 in opener of the Jack Barry Little League. Pembek's George Purcell and Guidas Mike Rogers hit home runs. In the nightcap, Gowrie Insurance slapped the Elks 14-3. Pete Maloney was the winning pitcher for Gowrie.

The Ed Walsh Little League opened its season on Sunday May 4,1975, as John Olson, President of the Civitan club tossed out the first pitch. Hancocks Pharmacy, Biestek Insurance, Zula's Golf, Kiwanis and the Eagles Club rounded out the teams for this year.

The Connie Mack Little League opened their season on Monday May 5,1975. Roman Oil, Meriden Roofing, L&M Garage, Home Meat Center, Hamrah Rug rounded out the teams for the 1975 season.

Regular season Little League games were played at Civitan Club Field, Unison Club Field, Somer Stadium, and Carter Field.

The 1975 Meriden Little League Championship was won by Meriden Roofing of the Connie Mack Little League.

Members of the Meriden Roofing team were: They were coached by .

Connie Mack Wins City Series 1975
Meriden Roofing earned the crown in the city Little League series on Friday July 11,1975 by defeating Gowrie Insurance by the score of 6-4. Going into the game both teams had records of 2-1 in the double-elimination tournament. Meriden Roofing, Connie Mack Champs trailed 4-0 going into the fourth inning. In the decisive fourth inning, the Roofers pushed across six runs for the win. Jim Pellegrino had the key hit of the inning, a double to right. Lou Zajac and John Muli paced Gowrie's with two hits each.

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

The Jack Barry All-Stars came from behind to defeat Prospect by the score of 9-4 on Wednesday July 16,1975. The Barry Stars were down 4-1 going into the fourth inning when Steve Wrobel came up with a big hit to drive in two runs. The locals tied it in the fifth then exploded for five runs in the sixth inning to win. The locals were led by Pete Maloney, Rich Filipek and Steve Wrobel.

Wednesday July 16,1975, the Ed Walsh All-Stars fell to MaCabe Waters of Bristol by the score of 10-6. John Benzinger and Kevin Ginnerty smashed round-trippers to lead McCabe Waters and Mark DeFilopo and Craig Labby doubled for the losers.

Wednesday July 16,1975, the Art Hills All-Stars were defeated by Southington North, 12-4. The Southington stars rode a strong pitching performance by Ed Silvia. Paul Sullivan, Silvia, and Greg Martin all contributed two hits to the winners attack. Gary Pelletier, Don Clark, and Ray Carlson each had two hits for Art Hills and Clark banged a homer.

The Connie Mack All-Stars were defeated by the New Britain All-Stars 6-0, on Wednesday July 16,1975

Jack Barry Little League All-Stars, Photograph courtesy Scott McKay

1975 Jack Barry All-Stars
Jeff Hewitt, Dick McKay, Mike Ellis, John Fontaine, Steve Wrobel, George Purcell, Jim Ellis, Wayne Legere, Brian Keene, Rick Filipek, Scott Dugee, Peter Maloney, Billy Gaj, Gary Glenn, and John Zajac. They were coached by Jay Muli.

1975 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
Albert Buonanni, David Dirgins, Michael Chase, Michael Martin, William Shamock, Hiram Gonzalez, Thomas Straub, Steven Rychlec, John Bernetti, Joseph Quity, Danna Barse, Kenneth Clemons, Marty Tiezzi, and Mark Lazarski. The were coached by Ed Biestek and James Murphy

1975 Connie Mack All-Stars
Wayne Buck, Victor Javier, Mike Wysocki, Robbi Gillis, Donald Liedke, Gary Wodatch, Kenny Ruel, Pete Wodatch, Scott Morrison, Chris Boehringer, George DeLuca, Jeff Pellegrino, Eddie Siebert, Mike Miazga, Clinton Knell, Gary Elliss, Paul Hergott, Israel Mojica, and Bill Mercuri. They were coached by Dave Katz.

1975 Art Hills All-Stars
Donny Clark, Greg Messina, Dan Cioffi, Dave Fuqua, Gary Pelletier, Paul Weiloch, Mark Koeller, Ray Carlson, Billy Conklin, Luke Cimcik, Steve Brown, and Tim Jameson. They were coached by Al D'Adarrio and Mike Rossi.

Lakewood, N.J., defeats Belmont Heighys, of Tampa, Fla., 4-3, in the World Series final. Lakewood, NJ, defeated Belmont Heights (Tampa, Fla.), 4-3 to win the World Series. Connecticut's Forestville All-Star team goes to Williamsport PA. to participate in World Series play.

The Connie Mack Little League opened its season on Monday May 3,1976, at Unison Field. West Side Dairy Queen, Roman Oil, Dicks Auto, L&M Garage, Home Meat Center and Hanrah Rug were 1976 team sponsors. In opening day action, Dairy Queen defeated Roman Oil 8-1.

The Ed Walsh Little League opened its 1976 season on Sunday May 2nd at the Civitan Field. In opening day action, Hancock's defeated Kiwanis 10-2. In the nightcap, Biestek edged the Eagles 10-8.

Dave Ritchie, president of the Jack Barry Little League announced the opening of the 1976 season, Sunday May 9,1976. The Reverend Thomas A. Fegler, pastor of the First Assembly of God gave the invocation. Guest speaker for opening day was Howie Hewitt Jr. a well-known local athlete, and graduate of the league. Mrs. Mary Maloney presented the 1975 Thomas Maloney Sportsmanship Award to Peter Maloney.
Mrs. Beth Ritchie, president of the Ladies Auxiliary threw out the first pitch. In opening day action, Pembek Oil nipped Guidas 17-16. Tom Cawlic, Steve Pratt and Bob Gray hit home runs. In the second game, Aresco's edged Malaria 5-4. Gary Hewitt was the winning pitcher for Aresco's.

Regular season Little League games were played at Civitan Club Field, Unison Club Field, Somer Stadium, and Carter Field.

NEWS FLASH
City girl makes Little League History.
A twelve year-old Meriden girl has the distinct honor of being the first female player in Connecticut to be named to a Little League All-Star Team.
Lynn Luca, daughter of Mr. and Mrs., James Luca of 72 Woodland Street, was named to the Connie Mack Little League tournament roster. Officials say that she is the first girl from the state to ever make such a team. A spokesperson at the leagues national headquarters in Williamsport, PA said, however, it could not be immediately determined id Miss Luca was actually the first in the nation.
The craze for girls to play Little League ball began several years ago and culminated last season when national headquarters gave official word allowing girls to play in the previously all-male sport.
Prior to this, leagues across the country had many confrontations with citizens over allowing girls to participate. Some parents even filed law suits over the issue.

The 1976 Meriden Little League Championship was won by Silver City Manufacturing of the Art Hill Little League.

Members of the Silver City Manufacturing team were: Jeff Massicotte, Bobby Smith, Paul MacFarlane, Greg Siede, Greg Fredrick, John Curry, Doug Munzu, Paul Wieloch, Scott Zima, David Testrote, Jonathon Wagshul, Jim Moore, and Greg Theilman. Coaches Hank Siede and Jim Fredrick

City Series to South Meriden
Art Hills Little League champion Silver City Manufacturing came back to capture the city series title with a two-game sweep from Gowrie Insurance. Saturday evening, Silver City edged the Jack Barry Champs 2-1. Then Sunday, they won 8-5 to take hold of the Meriden championship. Lou Zajac led Gowrie at the plate by going four-for-four. John Muli chalked up two RBI's for the Insurance-men. In Saturday's game, Paul Wieloch pitched a fine game, striking out 12 batters. He also batted in Greg Thielman with the winning run in the third. Silver City, which had one loss in the tournament going into Saturday's game, needed a win that night to even-up the double-elimination tournament at one game and force the title game Sunday.

1976 Art Hills LL - Meriden City Series Champs

1976 Art Hills Little League, Silver City Manufacturing, City Champs. Photo Courtesy Scott Zima.
First Row L-R: Jeff Massicotte, Bobby Smith, Paul MacFarlane, Greg Siede, Greg Fredrick, John Curry, Doug Munzu
Second Row L-R: Paul Wieloch, Scott Zima, David Testrote, Jonathon Wagshul, Jim Moore, Greg Theilman
Coaches L-R: Hank Siede, Jim Fredrick

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

The Art Hills Little League lost a thriller Monday July 19,1976, to the Forestville All-Stars 5-4, at Habershon Field. Strong pitching by George Springer and a solo home run helped the locals. Robbie D'Agostino played outstanding defense for the Art Hills Stars.

On Wednesday July 22,1976, the Jack Barry All-Stars defeated the Prospect All-Stars 8-3. Lou Zajac led the attack for the winners with a perfect 3-3 at the plate. Zajac, Jeff Hewitt, and Scott Fisher each hgad two RBIs for the winners. Manager Dick McCay credited his team with an excellent defensive game in committing no errors.

The Connie Mack All-Stars defeated the Ed Walsh Stars 12-6, Wednesday July 22,1976, behind the superb pitching of Jerry Lopez. Lopez hurled the complete game scattering eight hits while whiffing eight Walsh batsmen. Offensively Lopez led the way with a two-run double. Lynn Luca played an outstanding game, both at first and at bat for the victors, Luca had 3-4 on the evening with two doubles and three RBIs. John Boober also had a good day going 3-4. Bill Biestek of Ed Walsh and Jim Chester of Connie Mack each hit home runs.

The Yalesville All-Stars defeated the Jack Barry All-Stars 4-3, Friday July 24,1976. Brian Geremia was the winning pitcher and aided his cause with a solo home run. Yalesville's Jim Mitchell belted a two-run homer.

The Forestville Little League All-Stars defeated the Connie Mack All-Stars 14-3, Friday July 24,1976 to end the locals District 5 title hopes. Lynn Luca and Dan Berger cracked two hits each to lead the Mack club at the plate.

1976 Jack Barry All-Stars
Lou Zajac, , Jeff Hewitt, and Scott Fisher...... need help! They were coached by Dick McKay.

1976 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
Danny Berger, Bill Biestek, ..... need help! They were coached by Edwin Biestek.

1976 Connie Mack All-Stars
Lynn Luca, Jim Pellegrino, Jerry Lopez, Jim Cherniak. John Bobber, Dave Carrero, Rafael Agosta, Steve Papotto, Dan Bergen, Richard Dahn. Victor Javier, Jim Justice, Nicholas Casertano, Jody Desrosiers, and Dean Paradis. They were coached by Jim Pellegrino, Ken Mango, and Tom Mango.

1976 Art Hills All-Stars
Paul Hollman, David Silberman, Matt Lawler, Robbie D"Agostino, Scott Covington, Kurt Foster, Phil Wieloch. Dave Testoet, James Moore, Scott Zima, Gary Pelletier, Tim Trowbridge, Ernest Frattini, and Thomas Melzmuf. They were coached by James Frederick, Hank Seide, and Peter Daniels.

Baseball Hall of Famers Joe DiMaggio, Ernie Banks, and Bob Gibson are Little League Series guests as Chofu, Japan won the country's third championship. Chofu (Tokyo, Japan) defeated Campbell, Calif, 10-3 to win the Series.

Regular season Little League games were played at Civitan Club Field, Unison Club Field, Somer Stadium, and Carter Field.

The 1977 Meriden Little League Championship was won by Dairy Queen of the Connie Mack Little League.

Members of the Dairy Queen team were: David McGraw, Mike Kidder, Mike Waslewski, Gary Racine, ...... need help They were coached by Jim Pellegrino.

West Side DQ Wears LL City Series Crown
Gary Racine's first Little League career home run powered Dairy Queen of the Connie Mack league to the Little League city series title with an 8-4 win over Aresco's Superette. DQ swept through the double elimination tournament with a perfect 3-0 record. Aresco's, the Jack Barry champions, finished in second place at 2-2. DQ employed a six run outburst in the third inning to put the game out of reach. Mike Waslewski allowed three hits, struck out eleven, and walked eight for the win. Mike Kidder went 3-2, Waslewski doubled and drove in two runs, and Gary Racine went 3-2 with a home run and two RBI's to power the Mack offense. Dave Geer , Greg Argo, and Randy Marrow led the Barry offense.

District 5 Tournament Play
Meriden Little League sent three All Star teams to play in the District 5 tournament. The Jack Barry Little League did not send a team to the tournament this year, reason unknown.

The Connie Mack All-Stars defeated the Wallingford All-Stars, 4-3, on July 19,1977. John Arabasz slashed a single to drive in two runs and Frank Ieraci followed with an RBI single to score Arabasz to spark a three-run sixth-inning rally that allowed the Mack Stars to erase a 3-1 Wallingford lead. Matt Kidder fanned 10 to pick up the win while Mark Giannone took the lose.

The Art Hills All-Stars downed the Thomaston All-Stars, 6-5, on July 19,1977. Art Hills scored the winning run in the seventh inning after Thomaston had rallied for three runs in the bottom of the sixth to send the game into extra frames. Bill DeMerchant picked up the win in relief for the locals.

The Ed Walsh Little League All-Stars slapped Southington 11-1, Monday July 19,1977, in Southington. Pitcher Rudy Horvath hurled a three-hitter, striking out seven while allowing no walks. Ron Pader, Jerry Melesko, and Peter Sutherland had two hits apiece to pace the 12-hit attack.

The Western Little League All-Stars of Southington advanced to the semi-finals of the District 5 tournament as the came from behind to defeat the Ed Walsh All-Stars, 6-5, in Southington. Trailing 5-1 in the last of the third, the Western All-Stars pulled the game out of the fire when Dave O'Hala hit a three-run home run. Tony DellaVecchia gave the Southington Stars the Lead in the last of the fourth by rapping a two-run homer. Bob Ozycz and Jamie Neville pitched for the locals. Ken Herd was the winning pitcher for the Southington Stars.

Scott Zima tossed a one-hitter and was aided by brilliant defense as the Art Hills Little League All-Stars defeated the Connie Mack All-Stars, 4-2. Zima pitched four no-hit innings until Harry Bonet's RBI single in the fifth broke up the gem. Art Hills broke through for three runs on Rich Chenard's third inning home run. Zima went the distance for the win while Mike Waslewski struck out nine in taking the loss.

The Art Hills Little League All-Stars lost to the Yalesville All-Stars and were eliminated from District 5 play.

1977 Jack Barry All-Stars
No team this year.

1977 Big Ed Walsh All-Stars
Rudy Horvath, Ed Cannatelli, Jamie Neville, Jerry Melesko, Peter Sutherland, Tim Swiegand, Ned Conley, Ron Pader, Bill DeFrancis, and Bob Ozycz. They were coached by Jerry Melesko and Mike Sutherland.

1977 Connie Mack All-Stars
Mike Waslewski, Mathew Kidder, Gary Racine, Frank Ieraci, Michael Ingeno, Joseph Dontigney, Scott Jenkins, James McClelland, Harry Bonet, Bruce Agli, Richard Eleby, Donald Webb, Orlando Arce, Anthony Esposito, Dominich Esposito, Lawrence Duberek, and John Arabasz. They were coached by James Pellegrino and Thomas Mango..

1977 Art Hills All-Stars
Gerald Benway, Richard Chenard, William DeMerchant, Rod Emery, Ernest Frattini, Paul Hollman, Joseph Ludeman, Paul McFarlin, Douglas Munzo, Joseph Plont, Steve Roderigues, Mike Scafidi, Donald Silberman, and Scott Zima They were coached by Jim Fredericks and Peter Daniels.

Little League Baseball grows to include more than 6,500 programs for 9-12 year-olds, 2,850 Senior Leagues for 13-15 year-olds, and 1,300 Big League programs for 16-18 year-olds. Little League and Senior League Softball teams total more than 7,400 leagues. Li-Teh (Chinese Taipei) defeated San Ramon Valley (Danville, Calif) 11-1 to win the Series.