Opening day is back!

BLL American League Orioles Charlie Dabney, Evan Zager, Eli Hudson, Gabe Zadok, Jonah Salazar, and Jacob Tzeng run through the giant inflatable tunnel at the 2022 opening-day celebration. Opening day was a big success for Bellaire Little League. Players and families were thrilled to be able to participate in the beloved tradition after a pandemic hiatus. This year, BLL celebrated its largest player enrollment with 49 teams ranging from 4-year-old t-ball teams to the oldest age group of 12-year-olds. The formal ceremony included a special performance of the National Anthem by the 84-member choir from Horn Elementary School, a flag ceremony and the Pledge of Allegiance from Bellaire Scout Troop 549, and special recognition of the district teams including the 2021 10U team that won the Texas East State Championship title last July. After the formal ceremonies, families enjoyed carnival games, face painting, a rock wall, a mechanical bull, baseball games, and the homerun derby. 

Editor’s note: Send your best high-resolution photos and behind-the-scenes stories about young local athletes, in both team and individual sports, to SportzBuzz, Jr. at [email protected]. Include all contact info, names, ages, grades and schools. Featured athletes must live in Buzz-circulation neighborhoods. Items will be published on a space-available basis.