Dozens of little leaguers had fun in the sun at Crapo Field as players from all over the state came to Dartmouth to compete in the first weekend of this year’s John B. Steele tournament.

“It was a hot weekend,” Tournament Director Jim Vieira said. “Thankfully, we’ve had a bit of a breeze to deal with this heat.”

Dartmouth had two 10U teams compete this year. Both teams opened with wins on Friday, but were unable to beat their competitors during Saturday play, thus making them ineligible for playoff games this Friday.

“They played some good games, though,” Vieira said. “And they had fun.”

It wasn't just Dartmouth kids who enjoyed their time. Players from the Whaling City Youth Baseball league also had fun on the Crapo diamonds. 

“I almost hit a home run yesterday,” said 10-year-old Ethan Dube.

He added that this was his fourth year competing in the annual Dartmouth tournament and that this one was easily his favorite.

“The fields are really cool,” he said with a smile.

Vieira credited the Dartmouth Youth Activities Assocation’s grounds crew for that aspect of the tournament, noting that for each of the 32 games played, the crew would be out there to maintain the grass and ensure the lines were properly set up.

“I just want to make sure they get their kudos for this,” he said.

Canton Coach Joseph Abdallah also had praise for the Dartmouth-based tournament, mentioning that organizers were very accommodating of his town’s two teams.

“It feels like we’re home,” he said.

The tournament will continue with 12U teams from Aug. 12 through 14. Much like the 10U competition, there will be two teams from Dartmouth. 

To check out the game schedule, visit the DYAA website.