By Richard Harris

On a warm Saturday afternoon last May cheers rose from the large attendance gathered in Oz Park for the inauguration of an exciting new baseball league. The inspiration of Dave Siegel, the Oz Park Baseball Association (OPBA) originated 15 months earlier, the outgrowth of parents expressing regret over the lack of organized sports activities for their children.

The Pirates of Oz Park Baseball Association (OPBA)

“A growing number of families were choosing to raise their children in the city rather than flee to the suburbs,” Siegel said. “They were motivated by the city’s improving schools and the charms of communities like Lincoln Park. But something was still missing,” reflects Dave about the challenge that lay ahead.

Thirteen motivated moms and dads met at Four Farthings Restaurant. They agreed on a little league baseball program focused more on instruction and inclusion than competition. A board of directors was formed. Dave initially sent out 200 invitations (400 to 450 youngsters was the target). The fledgling OPBA wound up with an astounding 760 eager participants.

Richard Harris addresses the group on Opening Day

Seventy teams in six divisions, ranging in age from four to 10, emerged. Illinois high school baseball coach of the year Dave Rosene volunteered. Payton Prep’s Andy Pohl joined him. Alderman Daley gave her blessings along with a donation. Oz Park supervisor Adele Bach and district manager Brian Loll weighed in with support from the city. Additional encouragement came from Lincoln Central, Sheffield Neighborhood and Old Town Triangle associations. When Mike Lufrano in behalf of the Cubs donated $5000 things really accelerated. Enough funds were raised to even supplement Oz Park maintenance.

Left to right: Mike Lufrano (The Cubs), Alderman Vi Daley, Richard Harris (LCA), Dave Siegel (OPBA Founding President) and Mike Ashbeck (Sheffield Neighbors Assoc.)

“We partnered with a lot of generous folks to create something better than what previously existed,” Siegel praises. “It’s a league where everyone’s a winner.” Planning for next year are already in motion. For information contact opba.2010@gmail.com.