Walnut Creek's Little League opens Saturday with exhibition games, other special events

Maybe this is another sign that spring has officially arrived: the Walnut Creek Little League opens its 2010 baseball season Saturday. For their opening day ceremonies at Walnut Creek Intermediate, the league will host a series of exhibition games, and hear from special guest speaker, Paul Zuvella, a former shortshop for the Atlanta Braves and New York Yankees.

It all starts 10 a.m. in the Walnut Creek Intermediate gym. More than 800 families, and children, ages six to 14, will be participating in the season. Following the talk by Zuvella will be a Parade of Teams and exhibition games.

Here is more opening day ceremony from the league's community relations representative,  Joe Branka.

Food and drinks will be available from McCovey’s Restaurant. The Oakland A’s will provide prize drawings and giveaways while Sports Basement will host a tent. New this year is a “gently used” equipment swap meet for families to donate and swap baseball gear for the upcoming season.

Little League’s Challenger Division season also begins March 20. Geared toward children with special needs, the Challenger Division provides a real baseball experience while adapting to any disability. There is no cost to players’ families as expenses are borne by sponsors. Baseball and Softball division play begins March 27 at WCI, Bancroft Elementary, Heather Farm Field, Indian Valley Elementary and Northgate High School.

WCI’s two fields will host exhibition baseball and softball games beginning at 11:35. Walnut Creek Intermediate school is located at 2425 Walnut Blvd. in Walnut Creek.