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NELL Holds Field Dedication Ceremony
by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Daren Grande
Newtown Edgmont Little League’s 2022 season may have come to a close, but the love, generosity and team spirit continue all summer long. On the evening of Saturday, June 11th, members of NELL’s Challenger Division gathered under the lights for the final game of the season. It was a special night for the players and their families as they gathered to pay tribute to their head coach, Joe Catania, who passed away on May 1st. The evening was meaningful, emotional and memorable because in the months since Coach Joe passed away, generous donations from all across the country were made to NELL in Joe’s name. The Challenger Division teams Kings and Angels, along with their families, also launched their own campaign to raise over $1,100. Before the game got underway, NELL President Daren Grande was presented with a check for a very special project. “We are going to install a new electronic scoreboard on Field 3,” Daren said. “We are also excited to dedicate this field to Coach Joe. Field 3 will now be named Catania Field.” NELL’s Challenger Division has been in existence for over 30 years. The program was introduced to NELL by Coach Joe and his wife, Maureen, whose two special-needs sons, Jimmy and Luke, were inaugural players. Jimmy and Luke’s brother Matt, who grew up watching his brothers play Challenger baseball, is not only a coach and steady pitcher, but he also sits on NELL’s Board, representing the Challenger Division. After the check presentation and National Anthem, the Kings players took the field. Players from NELL’s 10-year-old division joined them on the field to assist as buddies. The night didn’t end there though. The celebration continued with a DJ playing fun music, an announcer calling the games, and a bonus 12-year-old All-Star game that followed. “It was a special night honoring a very special coach,” Daren said. “His life and legacy will live on here at NELL. Coach Joe deserves nothing less.”
The Catania family accepting a generous donation from the Challenger Division families (Back row L to R): Luke Catania, Daren Grande, Maureen, Jimmy and Matt Catania (Front row L to R): Jack and Eloise Catania
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Players line up to shake hands after the game
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Challenger Division players and their coaches coming together to honor their beloved Coach Joe
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