Sports 07-05-2016

North/South End square off in Baseball Classic

By Phil Orlandella

In the spirit of baseball competition and friendship between two neighborhoods the North2South Baseball Classic was played for the seventh consecutive year between teams representing the North End Athletic Association and South End Baseball.

Two seven inning games were played, one in each neighborhood. Teams consisted of 12 players ages 11+12.

Sponsored by State Representative Aaron Michlewitz of the 3rd Suffolk District the Classic brings two communities together through sports and has become a popular baseball series.

Representative Michlewitz District includes the North and South End communities. “I’m proud to represent these neighborhoods and the great organizations that are participating in the Classic held at Langone Park and Luis Tiant Field,” Michlewitz said.

“As someone who was involved in youth baseball as a coach for many years, I’m proud to sponsor an event such as this,” he added.

Michlewitz noted, “This event is one of my favorite events of the summer and it is my hope that this tradition will continue for many years to come.”

New this year, the North2South Baseball Classic honored one person from each neighborhood by naming each team’s Most Valuable Player after them.

The North End MVP award will be named after John Romano, John grew up in the North End and for as long as anyone can remember, he has been giving back to the neighborhood. From running the North End Athletic Association (NEAA) and helping create North End Music and Performing Arts Center (NEMPAC) to being the President of North End Against Drugs (NEAD). Romano has been a staple in the community in many different endeavors. Romano actually coached Representative Michlewitz when he played Little League.

“John has been a mentor, a friend and a leader for the North End,” said Michlewitz. “He was involved in the initial creation of the North2South Baseball Classic and has been somewhere that I have always counted on to help move the North End forward in a positive direction. Naming this award is a small step in honoring John for all he has done. I am happy we are doing it.”

The South End MVP award will be named after Jason Burrell. Jason grew up in the Lenox Street projects, played in South End baseball and for the South End Astros, graduated from UMass Amherst in 2011, currently works for Elizabeth Warren. Burrell actually played for the Astros against the North End Dodgers when Representative Michlewitz coach them before he was elected.

“Jason is a tremendous example of what South End Baseball is all about,” said Michlewitz. “He is someone who many other kids in the South End can look up to. I am proud to call him my friend and I am proud that we can honor him with naming the South End MVP trophy after him.”

Phil Orlandella and Mike Giannasoli honored at North End All-Star game

By Matt Conti

The North End Athletic Association honored former coach, umpire, director and president Phil Orlandella and former coach, umpire and current all-around volunteer Michael “Mikey Fud” Giannasoli at this years’ NEAA All-Star Game on Friday June 24th at Domenic Campochiaro Field at Langone Park Complex.

“These two gentleman have dedicated a good part of their adult life helping the youth of the North End not only in sports but more important sportsmanship, stated NEAA Coordinator John Romano. We are excited to extend this honor of naming an All-Star team after each of these awesome men.”

The game was played under the lights with the NEAA Baseball Program showcasing its best players in the 9 to 12 year old age group. Coaches gave out metals to their teams and announced that Richard Wells as “Rookie of the Year”. It was a fun night with free pizza, soft drinks, snacks and more with all of the league players and family members in attendance.

North End Street Hockey Tournament benefits autism charity in memory of Anthony “Wrinkles” Morella

By Matt Conti

The 2nd Annual North End Hockey Tournament was held on Saturday, June 25th in the Prince Street Playground at “The Gassy.” Team Luisi took the winning trophy this year.

This year’s tournament honored late North Ender Anthony “Wrinkles” Morella. Proceeds of over $1,500 benefited The Fund For Autistic Children, serving special needs kids in Boston and the New England area.

Organizers Justin Amoroso and Michael LoPriore Jr. planned music, pizza (courtesy of Regina’s Pizzeria) and raffles for the crowd during the day.

From the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services, Maria Lanza declared June 25, 2016 as Anthony “Wrinkles” Morella day in the City of Boston. Family members of Anthony Morella, including his brother Prisco Morella, attended the opening ceremonies. Adding to the political muscle at the event were State Senator Joe Boncore and State Representative Aaron Michlewitz.

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