Riverbank Youth Baseball Softball Association, RYBSA, teams celebrated their opening day on Saturday, March 9.

Without a hint of rain, the day broke with blue skies, a bit of a chilly breeze but otherwise a great day to hit the local baseball and softball diamonds.

The festivities began with a parade around Castleberg Park. The parade participants made their way from the basketball courts on the path all the way around the park before ending up on the north field. The parade of teams was staged just prior to the throwing of the ceremonial first pitches.

After having the chance to parade around the park, with many of the teams carrying colorful banners featuring both the names of individual players along with the team name, the young athletes settled in around the edge of the outfield grass to watch the ceremonies unfold.

There were two special ‘first pitches’ thrown to officially start the RYBSA season.

Taking his turn in the pitching circle first was local businessman Daryl Daniel of Sno-White Drive-In, who had the honor of throwing out the first pitch for baseball. Then, it was Riverbank Mayor Richard D. O’Brien’s turn, and he stepped into the circle to send the first pitch for softball toward the plate.

Once the ceremonies were complete, the many teams had the opportunity to put their skills to the test, enjoying a full day of games at the park.