-Editorial
The crack of the bat, the cheers from the stands, and the sight of young players taking the field returned to the iconic Little League Park on Cesar Chavez Boulevard as the 2025 Calexico Little League season officially kicked off on March 22. The park, a beloved community landmark for over 40 years, once again became the heart of youth baseball and softball in the city, carrying on a tradition that has shaped generations of local athletes. Against the backdrop of the Calexico Water Plant, families gathered to celebrate the start of a season filled with teamwork, sportsmanship, and a renewed commitment to the game.
With 18 teams participating this year—16 in baseball and two in softball—Little League President Jessica Gonzalez expressed excitement and concern as the season began. While the league has successfully brought back softball and continued to grow, she emphasized the urgent need for more volunteers and coaches to sustain the program.
“The biggest challenge was going all digital, which was an adjustment for parents, coaches, and community members,” Gonzalez said. “But beyond that, the biggest hurdle has been the lack of volunteers. Without enough coaches, kids could end up being turned away, which we don’t want to see happen.” She reflected on her connection to the league, having watched her son grow up playing in it. After returning to Calexico, she saw an opportunity to transform the league into a nonprofit organization—one of only two officially registered in Imperial Valley—which now allows them to apply for grants and funding to support local youth. “Our dream is to provide scholarships and low-cost registration so that every child has access to play,” she said. “But to make that happen, we need volunteers. If you love baseball, if you were once part of this league, we want you back. The kids of Calexico need you.”
Coach Anthony Acuña, head coach of the 10U softball girls’ team, emphasized the positive impact of Little League on young athletes and the importance of community involvement in keeping the program strong. “Little League isn’t just about playing a sport—it’s about building friendships, learning teamwork, and keeping kids active instead of being at home on a tablet or phone,” Acuña said. “I grew up playing baseball and football since I was seven, and when my kids wanted to play but didn’t have a coach, I stepped up. It’s been fun, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” However, Acuña echoed the league’s urgent call for more volunteers, stressing that the lack of coaches could prevent some kids from participating. “There are plenty of people in this community who could help out, but for some reason, they hesitate to step up,” he said. “We need more parents and former players to take the lead because, at the end of the day, we all help each other. These kids deserve the chance to play.”
Coach Ruben Sigala, head coach of the Bulldogs in the Minor A division, reflected on the lasting impact of Little League on young athletes. “Growing up, I played Little League, and now I see how important it was—the coaches who taught me responsibility, teamwork, and the value of competition,” Sigala said. “In life, that’s what it’s all about. Hopefully, these kids continue playing through high school, moving up from freshman to JV and eventually varsity. We don’t know what the future holds for them, but keeping them engaged in the game gives them a strong foundation.”
Longtime youth sports supporter Jesús Iñiguez, who has been involved in Calexico baseball and softball for over 40 years, emphasized the importance of keeping Little League strong. “My passion has always been with Little League, and right now, I’m coaching a team of 6-, 7-, and 8-year-olds who are learning the fundamentals—throwing, hitting, running bases,” Iñiguez said. “As a player agent, I work to organize teams so that parents and coaches are happy, and together, we can build a better future for our kids.”
