Officials were out for the day attending the Coast LL parade including Joe Diesso, Al Freise, Oyster Bay Councilwoman Laura Maher, Receiver of Taxes Jeff Pravato, Councilman Tom Hand and N.C. Leg. James Kennedy. Carolyn James/Herald

The Massapequa International Little League, celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2026, and the Massapequa Coast Little League opened their seasons in April with Opening Day parades, ceremonies, and community events that drew thousands of residents, marking one of the town’s most popular annual traditions.

This year, the International League reports 1,184 registered players across 95 teams—64 baseball and 31 softball—its strongest enrollment in nearly two decades. Growth has been steady since 2021, driven in part by increased participation at the tee ball level, which includes 261 players across 23 teams, according to Tournament Director Joe Pinto. More than 500 volunteers support the program, including coaches, team parents, and board members.

“We want our youth to enjoy being part of a team, make friends playing for their community league, create memories that will last a lifetime, but mostly have fun,” Pinto said. “Little League is for everyone, regardless of talent level.”

Massapequa Coast “Phillies” enjoying opening day parade

The Massapequa Coast Little League, which held its Opening Day at John Burns Park, operates across three seasons and runs approximately 160 teams involving more than 1,200 players and 400 coaches.

League leaders say the programs extend beyond athletics, serving as a cornerstone of community identity and civic pride. Public officials regularly attend events, and Opening Day ceremonies often emphasize unity. At the Coast opening event, participants joined in a chant of “We are Massapequa,” which organizers said reflects the league’s role in strengthening local bonds.

“We are a community. We are a foundation that gets rooted into these kids for the rest of their lives,” said Craig Garland, league president. “They learn baseball skills, but also life skills—friendship, teamwork, and a sense of belonging in their community.”

The Coast league also hosts major annual events, including a coaches appreciation outing at Citi Field on May 29, expected to draw 874 attendees to the centerfield “Big Apple” section. An annual awards dinner attracts more than 500 participants and distributes over $20,000 in trophies and championship jackets.

Two Little Leaguers marching in the parade.

Source: Massapequa Post