Boys are back

Auburn Little League welcomes new season under the sun | PHOTOS

As clouds gave way to sunshine, Auburn Little League President Zeb Olson introduced a parade of boys and girls ballplayers as they scrambled onto the field at Auburn High School last Saturday.

With the grandstands filled with family and friends, baseball and softball teams of all sizes and descriptions lined the infield to take in the traditional ceremonies of opening day. The Boy Scout Troop 401 honor guard presented the colors, the national anthem was sung, officials were recognized, 2017 all-stars were honored and first pitches tossed. Then the field opened for regular-season play.

In all, Auburn Little League represents 29 teams and more than 350 players this spring.

And support remains strong. Generous sponsors generated about $12,000 to support the league for new equipment, field maintenance, scholarships and other needs.

The Warriors dart to the field for opening ceremonies. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

The Warriors dart to the field for opening ceremonies. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

Auburn Little League President Zeb Olson makes some opening-day announcements. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

Auburn Little League President Zeb Olson makes some opening-day announcements. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

Troop 401 leads the crowd in honoring America. MARK KLAAS, Reporter

Troop 401 leads the crowd in honoring America. MARK KLAAS, Reporter

Mayor Nancy Backus, a lefty, throws out the ceremonial first pitch. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

Mayor Nancy Backus, a lefty, throws out the ceremonial first pitch. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

The Auburn Majors All-Stars, last season’s District 10 champions, were recognized. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

The Auburn Majors All-Stars, last season’s District 10 champions, were recognized. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

The Auburn Reds’ Jeriah Winston, 9, swings at a pitch during action against the Bulls. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

The Auburn Reds’ Jeriah Winston, 9, swings at a pitch during action against the Bulls. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

Play begins for Auburn Little League. MARK KLAAS, Reporter

Play begins for Auburn Little League. MARK KLAAS, Reporter

Play begins for Auburn Little League. MARK KLAAS, Reporter

Play begins for Auburn Little League. MARK KLAAS, Reporter

Teams wait patiently for the opening ceremonies. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter

Teams wait patiently for the opening ceremonies. MARK KLAAS, Auburn Reporter