Mill Creek Junior Baseball celebrated 70 years of fun during an opening ceremony on Sunday.
 
After the singing of the National Anthem, YSU President Bill Johnson threw out a ceremonial pitch.
 
The League at its pinnacle hosted over 800 kids.
 
After the COVID pandemic numbers dropped. 
 
But they're climbing up again to 528 kids and teens taking part this year. 
 
"We are up to 40 total teams and the nice thing to see we are getting big numbers in the T-ball. We're getting big numbers in the 6 to 8 Coach Pitch, and we're hoping if those kids stay happy and enjoy playing they're going to come back through the ranks and come back to the Pony and Colt," President of the Mill Creek Junior Baseball,  Dennis Merdich, said.
 
The new league president the board members, trustees, and volunteers make this possible. 
 
Over the past 15 years, they have upgraded fields and facilities. 
 
"We put in a batting ban, so the kids can work out all year long.  We just installed brand new LED lights two years ago." Merdich said.
 
Kids who enjoy taking part tell 21 News they're learning teamwork, discipline, and determination.
 
"Just like how to get better, and when you practice you get better," Krislynn Kyster.
 
But they are also building friendships with other kids from Salem, Boardman, North Jackson, Niles, Youngstown, and municipalities across our region. 

"Mill Creek is a big part of our friendship, teamwork, and other stuff,"  Brooks Wooley said. 
 
The League intends to make the opening day ceremony an annual tradition. 
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The day picture perfect for 40 teams.
 
The total of 471 scheduled games this year.
 
To find information on on donating, volunteering, or a list of schedules you can log on  mcjrbaseball.com