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Little League reduces number of teams

Williams Little League saw a reduction in numbers among some of the younger players and as a result, there will likely be two fewer teams this year.

Todd Parenteau, league president, said numbers were slow this spring and at a meeting last week, the league voted to cut one minors team and one girls softball team, both from Williams.

"We had a lot of kids from minors move into majors this year," Parenteau said, citing one reason for a minors team being lost. "The majors teams are full with 37 (Williams) kids."

As of last week, Parenteau said minors had 26 or 27 players.

Besides Williams, other area towns represented in Little League are Grand Canyon, Parks, Ash Fork and Seligman. Parenteau said all of those towns have full teams.

Battling periods of poor weather, Little League was able to hold baseball tryouts outside a few weeks ago. Parenteau said he believes every player who tried out moved up to majors.

Coaches of the Williams teams this year include:

· Pat Carpenter, Astros (majors).

· Dave Rose, Tigers (majors).

· Fred Garcia, Diamondbacks (majors).

· Ted Castaneda, Astros (minors).

· Tiger Grantham, Tigers (minors).

· Julie Grantham, Blue Jays (softball).

· Tracy Rose, Babes (softball).

· Steve Sherwood, Padres (T-ball).

· Salvador Ruiz, Diamondbacks (T-ball).

· Joyce McNelly, Mets (T-ball).

· Wade Pratt, Reds (Juniors).

· Mike Stevens, Red Sox (Se-niors).

The T-ball Diamondbacks were formerly known as the Marlins.

The season will begin May 6 for the majors. Two weeks later, the softball teams will begin action.

On June 3, T-ball and minors will begin their seasons.

Williams will be celebrating its 50th anniversary of Little League baseball this year. Parenteau said a special day is being planned for June 3 with several activities.

As for volunteers, Parenteau said the league could still

use umpires. David Dent will serve as head umpire this year.

For those interested in umpiring games or any other questions involving Little League, contact Parenteau at 635-1105.


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