MANCHESTER, N.H. – Grey skies might portend the threat of a rain delay, but the weather did not scare away parents, kids and other members of the community gathering on Saturday morning for a ceremony at the centerpiece of the Michael Briggs Wooden Bat Baseball Tournament.
Sponsored by Manchester Little League Baseball, the tournament honors fallen Manchester Police officer Michael Briggs. Despite its long history, the tournament has been held intermittently in recent years. However, former Manchester Little League board member Darryl Johnston has helped gather six teams for this year’s edition of the weekend-long tournament, with the hopes of an expansion to 20 years next year.
Saturday morning’s capstone ceremony highlighting the sacrifice of Officer Briggs and support of local law enforcement agencies in helping to bring the tournament together held brief speeches from New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte and Manchester Mayor Jay Ruais.
Johnston believes that the interest in this year’s tournament is a good example of the sport’s current health within the Queen City as well as its ability to bring people together.
Photos/Stacy Harrison
“I think we are beginning to see a resurgence in the game at the younger levels (in Manchester), which is good. The middle schools are really looking good as far as baseball concerned, so I think that bodes well,” said Johnston. “This is certainly a great example of the community coming together and showing that baseball is still alive. I think it’s going to start growing again and I think that’s a good sign for the future.”
Manchester Little League President Alan Beauchemin shared those views, adding that this tournament in particular holds a symbolic importance for the league.
“This (tournament) is for a fallen police officer. These kids are here and they want to win, but they’re also here for a good reason. The atmosphere is great, the competition is there, it’s everything you could ask for from Little League Baseball,” said Beauchemin.
Video of games will available on demand at manchestertv.org. Additional information on the league can be found at www.manchesternhlittleleague.com.
