What has loads of hairspray, glitter, and wicked changeups? That's right folks, girls softball! And that was the main event happening in downtown Valparaiso Monday July 23, 2012. The Opening Ceremonies for the NSA Girls Fast Pitch World Series were held this year in Valparaiso's Central Park Plaza. "We have the Opening Ceremonies in a different place each year," explained Speros A. Batistatos, President and CEO of South Shore CVA (Convention and Visitors Authority), "We like to keep things fresh. That way businesses become educated about this tourist opportunity, the community gets highlighted, and it brings families together. Due to the down-turned economy, families have been canceling vacations. But they won't cancel something like this. And it's multigenerational! Grandparents, grandkids, aunts and uncles- they all get involved!"
Standing next to Speros was Jason Sands, Director of Sports Development for South Shore Sports Promotions. Jason was in charge of coordination the entire event. "There are 243 teams here today," he stated, "And this event alone had a $1.1 million economic impact!"
That must have been quite an undertaking. The South Shore CVA is the only regional voice of hospitality, tourism and amateur sports in Northwest Indiana, by the way. And what a fine job they did! Everyone came out to enjoy the festivities. Even Valparaiso's Mayor, Jon Costas, was there. "This is fabulous," he exclaimed after giving an excellent speech on stage at the Central Park Plaza in front of the thousands of people who came out to celebrate, "It suits Valparaiso. This is perfect for tourism, it's an economic boost, it's educational, and families are brought together." Truer words were never spoken, Mr. Mayor. And speaking of bringing people together, people came to the Opening Ceremonies in droves. First, there was a parade which started at Central School with the destination being the Central Park Plaza. Teams from all over the country enthusiastically expressed their spirit and loyalty with chants ( a few even came with choreography), vibrant and creative uniforms, Silly String, water guns, and the quintessential thing that must happen at any and all parades- candy throwing. Parents shouted proudly, cameras clicked and flashed- it was just plain awesome!
After the parade, everyone was gathered into the Central Park Plaza for the singing of the National Anthem. Following this was the announcements for Miss NSA, and Skills announcements. Then, it was time for the block party. Man, oh man! What a party! There was so much to see and do. Hoards of girls crowded in front of the stage to dance to the music that was put on by a live DJ. Families lounged on the grass, played games, shopped, and ate at the many vendor booths that skirted the Plaza. "It's so much fun," laughed Lexi Madrigal, 13-year-old member of the Crown Point Bulldogs softball team, "I love yelling at the crowds!"
"I like the partying and everyone having fun," said Hannah Barton, also a 13-year-old member of the Crown Point Bulldogs softball team.
Besides the partying, was also Pin Trading. What's that, you ask? Karen Lein, 14-year-old explained, "Pin Trading is normally done on Opening Ceremonies. Each Team brings pins to trade. We all try to see who can get the most or rarest pins."
Not only was it great for the patrons, but the vendors as well. Culver's was in attendance with its new mascot Scoopie, Designer Desserts had its bright pink food truck out and ready to serve delicious treats, and many more businesses as well. The Valparaiso High School Softball Team had a booth set up in the midst of the action. "We're having a fundraiser to help support our softball program," says Junior Varsity softball coach, Lindsey Morris, "We're rebuilding our program and this is our third year with a new coaching staff."
Tracy Corneio, Head coach of the VHS softball team, was not only there for the fundraiser, but also for her daughter. "The fundraiser is a great way to get the word out, and it's a service for the community. Plus, I have one daughter in the ten and under tournament this year," said the proud multi-tasking mom.
From beginning to end, the Opening Ceremonies was a memorable blast. The city of Valparaiso was proud to be its host. Good luck to all who compete in the NSA Girls Fast Pitch World Series!