Westwood Athletes Sought for Norwood Fall Baseball Program

A fall baseball program in Norwood is gearing up for another season and is currently registering players.

While it is not directly affiliated with Westwood, transitioning to the Babe Ruth league next spring are encouraged to participate, as it is an ideal setting for the athletes, according to Westwood Little League President John Loughnane.

"Westwood has had enough interest in the past few years to get a team together," Loughnane said.

The program, dubbed The Norwood Diamond Club, was designed for existing first and second-year 2011 Babe Ruth-aged players, as well as graduating Little Leaguers.

The experience is meant to work as a training tool, getting players an initial or additional experience on a full-sized playing field.

"Westwood has entered a team in this league for the past three years," said Gary Cappuccino, International Division Coordinator for the Westwood Little League. "The real benefit is for the graduating 12-year-old Little Leaguers to get their first experience on the full-sized diamond prior to the traditional Spring Babe Ruth Season."

Each team that enrolls plays 12 games over six weeks starting in September. Games are to be played Friday nights, as well as Saturdays and Sundays.

Players will also take part in weekly clinics. While attendance is elective, players of all skill levels are welcome.

"It is unique and fun and really helped my then 13-year-old make the transition," Cappuccino said. "Last year, Dedham and Canton entered teams, and this has given it a more competitive feel. The players really enjoy themselves and the coaches get a glimpse into what some of these younger kids can do."

The cost to join the program, which is also not affiliated with Westwood Babe Ruth, is $125 per player.

Those interested can make checks out to the Norwood Diamond Club, and should contact Gappucino at gcapp@aol.com for registration forms or to obtain further information. Registration ends September 4.

For more information on the Westwood Little League, click here.