Story, photos by Kevin Cody
The Hermosa Beach Little had not just one guest of honor throw out the opening day pitch on Saturday, March 1, at Clark Field. It had four honorary pitchers throwing to four Hermosa Beach Little League catchers.
The break in tradition was to honor Hector Alatorre, described by HBLL president Dave Shott as “the heart and soul of Clark Field.”
Alatorre and his family ran the Clark Field snack stand for the past three seasons. The Alatorre family will continue to run the snack stand this year, but without their popular patriarch. Hector died last December in a multi-car accident, at age 55.
The opening day pitches were thrown by Hector’s three daughters Kristy, Jazareth, Sophia, and Selina, and his son, Hector Jr., while Hector’s wife Sol led over 500 Hermosa Little Leaguers in shouting, “Hector. Hector.”
The more than 500 players, representing 48 teams, were the largest number in the history of the league, which was founded in 1951.
Opening Day ceremonies began with an address from Hermosa Mayor Beach Dean Francois, followed by all 48 teams running the bases.
President Shott credited the success of Hermosa Beach Little League, not only to its dedicated board members and coaches, but to support from the broader community.
He singled out for thanks Hermosa Rec Coordinator Nick Shattuck for serving as the city liaison; School Superintendent Susan Wildes for helping facilitate registration; the HBPD officers who coach; and Brad Cocking, of Hermosa Public Works, who showed up that morning to fix a balky score board.
For more about the Hermosa Beach Little League, visit hermosabaseball.com. ER
