The McKinley Park neighborhood’s Omega Delta Youth Baseball & Softball League celebrated the start of its 20th year at its opening day on Saturday, April 26, 2025, including a parade through the neighborhood, ceremony and ball games at Chicago’s Hoyne Park.
“This is a most exciting day,” Cook County 7th District Commissioner Alma Anaya said while addressing the crowd. “Let’s play ball!”
The all-volunteer league, which serves hundreds of local children, youth and their families through year-round programming, began its 2025 season with speakers, a BBQ and games for its players, which range from 4-year-old T-ballers through highly competitive girls high school softball players.
Illinois 24th District State Representative Theresa Mah lauded the “amazing community” that comes together to support the league.
“All the parents who are here are something you can’t take for granted,” said Illinois 1st District State Senator Javier Cervantes.
In addition to the national anthem led by Suzanne Lucio and the first pitch thrown out by Major League Baseball All-Star Curtis Granderson, league umpire Jesse Calderon led players, coaches and parents in their annual pledges of good sportsmanship.
Better People and Players
After the ceremony, dancers from Ballet Folklorico de Chicago entertained the crowd, followed by three games from players of the minor, rookie and major divisions of the league.
12th Ward Alderwoman Julia Ramirez also spoke and paraded with her girls softball team, which she is coaching this season.
Omega Delta’s goal for kids and youth is “to make them better people and better ball players,” said Danny Gaichas, the league’s head and founder.
“I wish all the teams the best of luck,” Mah said.
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