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Thousands packed into Point Stadium Monday night for opening night of the 66th AAABA tournament.
The annual amateur baseball tournament kicked off with a parade before Johnstown’s Delweld took on Cleveland.
AAABA brings local baseball fans together with those from across the country, and the tournament’s fans keep coming back for more.
Lew Price of Johnstown said he’s been coming to the tournament for years – ever since he was 14.
He wasn’t a player, but said over the years he’s known plenty of players and coaches.
“It gets bigger every year,” Price said. “And what terrific weather!”
Many former players also make the return to Johns-town for the tournament, now supporting their children and relatives instead of playing.
Ricky Pursell of New Orleans played in AAABA years ago, and now supports his son, Ryan Pursell – a 19-year-old pitcher/outfielder with the Boosters.
“I can vividly remember what the tournament was like 20, 25 years ago,” he said. “It makes an impression on you.”
Pursell said it’s not just AAABA itself but the people of Johnstown who leave an impression on the players.
“It’s something I know our kids look forward to,” he said.
Before the game, the ambassadors and all of the teams were introduced.
U.S. Rep. Mark Critz, D-Johnstown, a member of the Johnstown Oldtimers, threw out the ceremonial first pitch before a standing-room-only crowd.
Pete and Diane Skoner, whose son Matt plays for Delweld, described AAABA as a “wonderful experience” for their son – and for themselves as well.
“We’re grateful for everything our son got out of it,” Diane Skoner said.
Matt Skoner has played for Delweld and in the tournament for three years.
“It’s just a great atmosphere, especially opening night,” Pete skoner added. “I hope they can keep it going.”
Pete Skoner gave credit to the city and local institutions for keeping the tournament running for 66 years.
Price said he enjoys seeing AAABA continue to grow each year, but he had another request for this year’s tournament.
“It would be nice if it was Delweld vs. Martella’s at the end,” he said.
“Keep Johnstown in it.”
The Skoners said they were just glad to see their son’s team excel in the past, and they hope to see that trend continue.
“We’re glad our son had the opportunity to play on a good team,” Diane Skoner said.
Local News
Related Photos
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AAABA ambassadors wave to the crowd prior to the start of Monday’s official tournament opener at Point Stadium. John Rucosky
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George Arcurio Jr., the former president of the Johnstown Oldtimers Association who helped bring the tournament to the city, waves to the crowd as he is introduced. John Rucosky
Discussion
‘A great atmosphere’
Packed Point welcomes return of AAABA tournament
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