Little leaguers flooded Crosby Avenue on Saturday morning in a show of neighborhood pride, teamwork, and tradition as Pelham Bay Little League & Softball launched its 71st season with its annual opening day parade. But behind the cheers, chants, and colorful uniforms, league officials used the moment to spotlight a sobering reality: the community program is in desperate need of financial support.
The parade began at 9 a.m. at the intersection of Crosby Avenue and Westchester Avenue, winding its way toward Pelham Bay Park as teams of boys and girls marched shoulder-to-shoulder in their uniforms, accompanied by coaches, parents, and elected officials. The day marked not just the return of youth baseball and softball to the Bronx neighborhood, but also a renewed effort to upgrade crumbling facilities and secure sustainable funding.
“Our fields and dugouts are in a state of disrepair and no longer meet the basic standards our players deserve. Our indoor training facility remains in unacceptable condition—without hot water, heating, or air conditioning,” said Natalia Corridori, league president. “These ongoing issues compromise the health and safety of the hundreds of kids who participate each year.”
Corridori thanked Council Member Kristy Marmorato for helping secure $15,000 in discretionary funds for the league but noted that renovations have yet to begin.
“This parade is not just about pride—it’s a plea,” Corridori said. “We’re asking Bronx leaders and residents to stand with us, visit our facility, and see for themselves why our kids deserve better. Our sports facilities should reflect the value we place on our children, and right now, that reflection is falling short.”
The league, founded in 1954, has been a pillar for Bronx youth, especially those from underserved communities, offering not just a chance to play but to grow in leadership and confidence. It is entirely volunteer-run, and many of its board members, including Corridori, juggle full-time jobs while navigating complex grant and funding processes.
“What we truly need is a professional grant writer with experience in this type of funding—someone who can help us move the process forward and turn support into action,” Corridori said.
Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, who joined the morning festivities, praised the league’s longstanding role in the community and pledged to fight for needed upgrades.
“As your borough president, I look forward to working with you to make the investments that must be made to modernize this space,” Gibson told the crowd. “Yes, we will do it.”
State Senator Nathalia Fernandez also addressed the crowd, calling the young players “the heart of the community.”
“Everything that you learn playing team ball is going to stay with you forever—not just your strong pitch, but your sportsmanship and ability to work with friends,” Fernandez said. “You are the future of Pelham Bay.”
Corridori, in her own speech to families, emphasized the deeper purpose of the league.
“This field isn’t just grass and dirt—it’s where confidence is built, friendships are formed, and dreams take hold,” she said. “Our league has always been about more than sports. It’s about creating opportunity for girls and boys from every corner of the Bronx.”
Despite the hardships, Corridori struck a hopeful tone: “Now let’s play ball and make this the best season yet.”
