By Peter Johnson
“America’s Greatest Pastime” has been a long-standing tradition of ballparks and homeruns and San Diego is fortunate to have many levels of playing ball — from the San Diego Padres, to the San Diego State University Aztecs, to community little leagues. Since 1957, the Lake Murray Little League has served the area’s passionate baseball loving families, providing children ages 4–12 a place to enjoy the sport and grow as individuals.
One aspect of the program that brings families to the fields week after week is the bonding that happens among community members; parents are brought together cheering on their children in the stands, siblings of players enjoy the grounds and the snack bar, and players are drawn to the overwhelming feeling of accomplishment after scoring a run.
This little league has been preserving a tight-knit community of baseball enthusiasts who continually volunteer their time to preserve the league’s goal of developing superior citizens. The president of the organization, John Ruiz, who also has a son in the program, explained why the league is important to the community.
“We are a league that brings together families from all walks of life to share in the pleasure of seeing our children and future leaders excel on and off the field,” he shared.
State Senator Joel Anderson appreciates the Lake Murray Little League program for its ability to produce well-rounded and community-minded citizens. Anderson provided Senate certificates of recognition to the Lake Murray Little League and its outstanding volunteers.
“It is outstanding citizens like John Ruiz and his volunteers who work tirelessly for the community and its children that deserve special recognition,” he said. “They selflessly give of their time and talents to make sure kids get this great opportunity.”
Ruiz, Anderson, and countless other community members see the value in the way the program brings people together. For more information on the Lake Murray Little League, please visit lakemurrayll.org.
— Pete Johnson is a legislative intern for Sen. Joel Anderson.
