New Field of Dreams laid out in Ville Platte

It was a breathtaking event and one that was attended by nearly 1,000 people. The grand opening ceremonies at the new Ville Platte City Recreational Complex. Distinct members of the community, coaches, fans, family members and, of course, players (softball and baseball) were in attendance.

“This was a great event for the community and for these kids out there,” said Dixie Youth President Barry Bordelon. “It’s a great day but it would not have been possible without the work of so many volunteers. The work of so many parents and coaches is the biggest reason this place was a success. It is the only way this place will keep going in the future.”

Volunteers like Jessie Fontenot and others worked on the fields until late Friday night. Their work was evident when the teams arrived early Saturday.

Among those in attendance was Ville Platte Mayor Jennifer Vidrine, recreational board members and former coaches of both leagues.

Key people who were cornerstones in getting Ville Platte baseball and softball going were there. Ville Platte’s legendary J.F. “Black” Lafleur was in attendance to throw out the first pitch. Lalfeur has over 30 years of coaching experience and was on many staffs that went to the Dixie Youth Baseball World Series. Long-time DYB Head Coach Smiley Fontenot was amongst those in attendance. After 17 years, Fontenot retired. He was instrumental at getting several teams into the Dixie Youth World Series.

From the softball side, Liz Darbonne threw out the first pitch. She was a big part of the softball community along with her late husband David Darbonne.

The Ville Platte Softball and Baseball leagues will be competing throughout the season and the summer. Dixie Youth will host the Majors sub-district tournament and the State Pitching Machine Tournaments.