Winslow Little League kicks off April 14 with opening day
Fields renamed 'Hayden Walton Sports Complex-Winslow'

WINSLOW, Ariz. - Winslow Little League for 2012 opened at noon on April 14, amid cold 30 mph winds. Kids and relatives were bundled up and some came with blankets, too. The day started with snow flurries, as if the weather was daring the kids to get started. No one seemed deterred by inclement weather, especially Little Leaguers. Held at the League Complex, it looked like most all of the 460 Winslow players from Girls and Boys, T-Ball, Minor League and Major League teams showed up. Winslow's involvement with Little League is well established.

The first Little League teams in Arizona began here in Winslow, started by Mr. George Keaton in 1951. Winslow Little League is 61-years-old and going strong still today, George would be proud. Winslow Little League has 20 board members serving with President Dale Thomas. Board members were introduced and thanked for their involvement.

Mayor Boyd gave an opening day speech and reminded everyone that the entire city block of sports venues was named for 13-year-old Hayden Walton, who died here playing ball. Hayden's parents and sister attended this year's opening and were presented with a nice bouquet of yellow flowers. The entire area is officially named "Hayden Walton Sports Complex-Winslow" with signage going up this summer.

This year's Little League opening was dedicated to Hayden Walton. Josh Ciere and Emmett Foster sang the National Anthem, after which, most of the players threw their hats in the air.

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