The 2025 Little League season kicked off in full swing across the Tri-Community on April 5, 2025 as both Sunset Community and Wrightwood leagues hosted memorable Opening Day celebrations. With hundreds of families in attendance, the events showcased not only young athletic talent but also the enduring spirit of community, resilience, and volunteerism.
In Phelan, Sunset Community Little League opened its season with a heartfelt and inspiring ceremony at the Phelan Elementary School ball fields. The day began with a prayer led by Pastor Zeke Flores of the Calvary Church in Phelan, setting a meaningful tone for the event.
One of the most emotional moments came early as Josh Eberhart, a student at Pinon Mesa Middle School, was recognized alongside his family. Josh, a Sunset athlete and Snowline football player, recently overcame a life-threatening illness. His return to the field was met with strong applause from those in attendance.
The national anthem was performed by Serrano High School senior Alli Phipps, whose powerful voice drew cheers from the crowd. Following the anthem, Sunset League President Taylor Long delivered opening remarks, talking about how far the league has come.
“As recent as 2022, Sunset Community was on the verge of dissolving,” Long said. “Now fast forward to 2025, and I’m standing here on Opening Day looking at nearly 400 Little Leaguers ready to get the season underway.”
He credited the Opening Day Committee, volunteers, players, and families for reviving the league, adding, “Thank you for making Sunset Community great again.”
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Hometown Hero Award to Dave Trujillo, a retired U.S. Marine and longtime LAPD officer. Trujillo coached his sons in the league throughout the 1990s and remains a visible and vocal supporter, now cheering on his grandsons from the stands. Known for sharing “old-school” drills and community spirit, Trujillo was recognized for his decades-long contributions to the league and the Phelan community.
The ceremonial first pitch was delivered by 11-year-old Jace Haynes, who returned to the field this season after a serious accident last year. On April 27, 2024, Jace was struck by a vehicle near his home, suffering multiple injuries, including a broken leg and bruised lungs. His journey back to health served as a reminder of strength and community support.
Opening Day games followed the ceremony, featuring matchups across age divisions, including the 6U Bananas vs. Party Animals, 7U Pirates vs. Red Sox, 10U Dodgers vs. Patriots, 12U Orioles vs. Dodgers, 14U Dodgers vs. Diamondbacks, and 8U Storm vs. Dragons. Families filled the stands, and volunteers kept things running smoothly.
Meanwhile, over in Wrightwood, was a similarly vibrant celebration at Wrightwood Elementary School. Local teams of young athlete, ranging from eager first-timers to seasoned players, gathered around the diamond, ready to start the season. Families and friends arrived in large numbers to cheer them on and take part in the festivities.
The San Bernardino County Fire Department, along with students from the Serrano Fire CTE program, served a pancake breakfast. For just $5 per person, players and their families enjoyed a hearty morning meal that fueled their spirits for the day ahead.
Adding to the excitement, players participated in an opportunity drawing, where they had the chance to win a Dick’s Sporting Goods gift card. Various local vendors added color and creativity to the event. Sew Embroidery offered personalized stitching for players’ gear, while local business I Dyed Face Painting transformed faces into festive works of art, celebrating team pride.
Highlighting the ceremony was the ceremonial first pitch, thrown by none other than Smokey Bear. With playful charm and an oversized glove, Smokey captivated the crowd and delivered a strong toss from the mound. Cheers erupted across the field, officially ushering in the 2025 Wrightwood Little League season with joy and excitement.
