[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 136 (Friday, September 27, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1729]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN HONOR OF THE RIVER VALE-SPONSORED AMERICAN LEGION BASEBALL TEAM: 
           INTERNATIONAL AMBASSADORS OF OUR NATIONAL PASTIME

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                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 26, 1996

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a special 
group of young men who have distinguished themselves through their 
exceptional achievements on the baseball diamond. Through their 
outstanding exhibition of athletic performance and sportsmanship, these 
individuals serve as reminders of what can be accomplished when people 
work together for a mutual goal.
  Baseball has long been the national pastime. Although the sport has 
provided enjoyment to those who had played it intramurally, the 
earliest organized game took place in what is now my district on June 
19, 1846 on the Elysian Fields in Hoboken. From the first pitch, it was 
obvious that this new sport would have a tremendously positive effect 
on all future participants. This can be seen in the young men who took 
part in the International Baseball Tournament in Breda, Holland.
  The multi-national celebration of baseball took place from August 18 
to 26. The River Vale American Legion team was the only American team 
to participate in the tournament. Other countries which competed in the 
week-long activity included Russia, Italy, France, Germany and Holland, 
the host country. While in Holland, the players lived with native 
families, toured various cities and attended a number of social 
functions.
  The group of 12 young men who successfully represented the United 
States included: Steven Batista, Michael Della Donna, Seth Jason Testa, 
Craig De Vincenzo, Luke Frezza, Mathew Kent, Michael Wren, Scott Clark, 
Michael Russini, Russell Romano, Thomas Lamanowicz, and Thomas King. 
Each athlete earned the respect of his peers. Joseph Pistone and Thomas 
De Vincenzo coached them to their undefeated, 10-0, tournament-winning 
record.
  I am certain that my colleagues will join me in recognizing the 
outstanding efforts of the River Vale American Legion baseball team. 
The cause of mutual cooperation and understanding among people in the 
United States and Europe was greatly enhanced by their participation. 
These young men will long be remembered as international ambassadors of 
our national pastime.

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