Bridgeport’s WV Patriot League players gathered recently at the Bridgeport High School baseball field at the Wayne Jamison Complex to take in a game between the Indians and Fairmont Senior.

 

The Patriot program is one of several youth leagues that has players feeding into the highly successful BHS baseball program. The majority of this year’s roster for the Indians feature Patriots players.

 

Organizers also recognized WV Patriot Baseball for competing now for 12 years.

 

As part of the event prior to the Fairmont Senior game, former Indian all-stater in baseball - who also played football at West Virginia University - Dante Bonamico accompanied his former prep coach Robert Shields to the plate for the pre-game meeting with the umpires.

 

Joining Bonamico, who was on the first WV Patriot squad, was current WV Patrio player on the 8U team Graham Skasik. After meeting at home plate, Bonamico threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

 

Editor's Note: Photos used with this story are courtesy of Robert "Bobby" Marra.