Adults pitch the many perks of Ramona Pony Baseball

Playing Pony Baseball is like a vacation.

So said Tim Fidler, president of the Ramona youth baseball league at its opening day March 7.

“You’ve got kids out here learning, getting exercise,” he said. “It’s just like entertainment, like a vacation.”

Spending time with friends on warm sunny days, the smell of barbecue and the feel of being part of a big family, a baseball community, all contribute to the Pony experience, he told a crowd of families and players.

During the ceremonies, Ramona Food & Clothes Closet donated $2,500 for the league’s Sports Saves Kids Scholarship Program. Jeff Funk, Ramona Food & Clothes Closet Board chair, and Jae Marciano, general manager of the nonprofit, presented the check.

“When you give to us, you give back to the community,” Marciano said.

Fidler presented the Volunteer of the Year award to Dougan Dimmitt, who has served on the Ramona Pony Baseball board, and has been a manager, coach, and all-around help to the league.

The Lifetime Achievement Award went to the Dave and Kelly Roe family. Dave Roe has been a manager and coach, and Kelly had served on the board.

John Vargas, field director for Pony’s southwest region, spoke and threw the first pitch. A Santa Ysabel resident, whose son formerly played for Ramona Pony Baseball, Vargas said the league helps prepare the youth to become leaders.

“Let’s teach our kids It’s OK not to win every time,” he told parents.

And to the coaches, he said: “I want you to realize how much of an impact you have on your players’ lives.”

For more photos, see photo gallery.