The softball and baseball fields at Ely Field in Lambertville and Hewitt Park in West Amwell have been cleaned and groomed and are just about ready for when the umpire yells “play ball” later this month.
More than 50 volunteers braved chilly and damp conditions over the course of two weekends to get the ballfields ready in time for the Lambertville West Amwell Youth Baseball and Softball Association’s 2012 season.
”We have a dedicated group of volunteers who come out time and time again to make sure we have playing conditions that even a major leaguer would be proud to play on,” boasted David Wintermute, head groundskeeper.
League President Richard Roy concurred with his guru of groundskeeping and said: “If it wasn’t for the volunteers and all their time and efforts, this league and these fields would be nowhere near the jewel that they are.”
Among the new additions to the fields this year are artificial pitcher’s mounds at both Ely Field and Hewitt Park. These will ensure a standard and consistent height for anyone who toes the rubber.
Also the snack shack at Hewitt has a fresh coat of paint and appears to be sparkling new.
”We would like to see everyone in the community come on out this year — not only to enjoy youth baseball at its best, but to also support our sponsors, who either purchased an outfield signboard or sponsored one of our many teams for what promises to be possibly the best season yet for the LWAYBSA,” said Mr. Roy.
Opening -day ceremonies for the 2012 season will take place on April 21 at Ely Field with the introduction of all players along with a number of local dignitaries and celebrities on hand to throw out the first pitch.

