SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

David Schiappa enters his third decade of coaching American Legion baseball for Gershkoff Auto Body Auburn Post 20. He has established a futures program currently in the 10-U division. In addition, he has handed the 19-U senior program to Steve Piscopiello (current CWLL president and Cranston Recreation Director) while he takes the reigns of his 17-U Junior American Legion tournament team. 

The Senior Legion team is co-sponsored by Elmwood Sports. The 10-U team and the Junior Legion Lightning Elite teams are co-sponsored by Top Notch Rentals.

10-U manager and sponsor Andrea Piccirillo writes that being part of this program and team offers a truly wonderful experience for players, coaches, and families alike. 

“The team has made significant strides in their development, not only in their baseball skills but also in their ability to support one another both on and off the field. They celebrate each other’s successes, but what truly matters is how they lift each other up during the slumps and challenges,” said Piccirillo. “Being part of this organization transcends being just a team; it is a cherished journey. Next up this August is a summer tournament in Delaware.”

Head coach Ed Tavarez reflects on how remarkable the journey has been. As a coach, he couldn’t be prouder of these boys and the incredible strides they’ve made since last season. 

“This year, the team finished with an impressive 17-7 record, establishing itself as one of the top teams in a league of over 100 programs. Every player contributed to our success, and the camaraderie and joy they brought to the field made this season unforgettable.”

Head Coach Ed Tavarez reflects on how remarkable the journey has been. As a coach, he couldn’t be prouder of these boys and the incredible strides they’ve made since last season. This year, the team finished with an impressive 17-7 record, establishing themselves as one of the top teams in a league of over 100 programs. Every player contributed to our success, and the camaraderie and joy they brought to the field made this season unforgettable.

Matt Mazzola (#1) had a great season offensively; as his hitting has greatly improved and he truly enjoys the game. He’s a very coachable player who is always looking for ways to improve his game.

Vinny Vlaun (#2) is quickly becoming a really good defensive player, making an impressive number of key plays for us this season and showing tremendous potential in the field. He very well could be the fastest on the team, often wreaking havoc on the basepaths and putting pressure on the opposition with his speed.

The team was honored to have Brayden Proppe (#3) represent us at the All-Star Game. Brayden was selected not only for his overall performance, but also for his ability to be a leader on and off the field.

Andrew Tavarez (#7) is a passionate player who lives for the big moments. He has a great baseball IQ, a deep love of the game, and consistently shows patience and skill at the plate.

Jacob Kowalczyk (#8) received “All Tournament” honors in our most recent tournament, consistently coming through with clutch hits when we needed them the most.

Defensively, he’s become a very good outfielder with a great ability to track down the ball.

Defensively, Luca Mariotti (#10) did a fantastic job behind the plate, impressing everyone with his poise and ability—especially notable as he is the youngest player on the team at just 9 years old. He’s learning to take control of the game and is doing a really good job.

Anthony Hernandez (#11) was named player of the game at our most recent tournament, coming through with a clutch triple to help us take the lead in an important game. He’s a great teammate and always positive—and is often the first one to encourage his teammates.

On the mound, Ben Leveillee (#13) was a true standout—his reliability and composure helped pitch us out of many difficult situations throughout the season. He’s not afraid of pitching in the big game and his teammates appreciate him always wanting to take the ball.

Bryson Ramos (#14) also earned a spot on the “All Tournament” team and delivered one of the season’s most memorable moments with a clutch home run—one of four he hit this year. He also pitched in key moments for us, coming in to pitch in tough spots and coming up big for us.

Jacob Fiontella (#27) was our super utility player—no matter where he was asked to play, he got the job done and always gave his best for the team. His pitching has also improved this year, and he’s become a reliable arm for the team.

Luca Orsini (#50) is a disciplined hitter and a power threat at his age, always impressing with his ability to deliver in key situations. In addition, Luca established himself as one of the better pitchers in the league this season.

Ed states that the program is built on the dedication of an amazing group of players and supportive parents, and with the growth we’ve seen, the future is incredibly bright for this team. We have something truly special here, and we can’t wait to see what next season holds.

Tavarez states that the program is built on the dedication of an amazing group of players and supportive parents, and with the growth we’ve seen, the future is incredibly bright for this team. We have something truly special here, and we can’t wait to see what next season holds.

Piscopiello stated, “The Senior season will be a reset for the program, with a complete roster turnover and youth movement. He hopes this combination will produce a gameday energy and passion for baseball during the summer. The goal is to teach, get in much needed reps for everyone while playing loose and having some fun. He feels if he could meet basic goals, the players will enjoy the experience, which could lead to some wins and take it one day at a time.”

Gershkoff Junior Legion will be kicking off its season this week with two league games, and a Firecracker tournament in Mystic, CT. They will also be heading to San Diego, California from June 30 through July 7 to compete in the Fireworks at the Harbor tournament with some of the best 16-U programs on the West Coast. 

The team is comprised of a promising group of 15-17 year-old players from various local high schools (Cranston West, Cranston East, Johnston High, Toll Gate, and Bishop Hendricken) that looks to compete for a state title. Players competed at the varsity and junior varsity level this past spring with much success. 

The pitching staff is well experienced and seasoned. Aiden Neal, Michael Blair, Aidyn Pizzuti, and Reece Zarella look to dominate opposition as all four were relied on during their respective high school seasons. Peter Grammas, Gianni Santo, and Joey Nunez all figure to factor in on the mound as well.

Catching duties feature a trio of players that all provide a solid backstop; Josh Gillen, Ethan Conrad, and Andrew Schiappa. All will see time across the diamond as well. 

The infield will include Neal, Zarella, Blair, Joey Nunez, Michael, Nunez, Gianni Santo, Ethan Davis, Lucca Ricci, and Corey Ogden. 

Patrolling the outfield will include Zarella, Pizzuti, Grammas, Davis, Lucas Santo, Joey Nunez, and Ogden.