Opening ceremonies held for Rayne Rec season

Due to inclement weather, the opening ceremony of the 2016 Rayne Recreation Summer Baseball Softball Program was held Saturday, May 7, at Gossen Memorial Park.
Emceed by Rayne Rec Director Dwayne Derise, the Colors were presented local Boy Scout Troop 61, with the National Anthem sung by Suzette Leonards.
The first pitches were thrown by Tammy Guidry for the girl’s league and Roscoe Guidry for the boy’s league.
Guidry has been involved with the Rayne Recreation Department for over 40 years, both as a participant and volunteer. She has worked in the summer softball program for several years, coached the new volleyball league since its inception, and began the “Just For Fun” day camp 18 years ago with co-director Debbie Broussard. Her catcher for her first pitch was Kate Daigle, Guidry’s great-niece and member of the Tigers of the Girl’s Bronco League. GUidry was presented a special plaque for the occasion.
Throwing out the first pitch for the baseball league was Wayne “Roscoe” Guidry an Chasity Mire, parents of the late Coby Guidry, long-time player and volunteer for the program and a recent assistant coach for the Rayne All-Star Baseball Team. Each were presented a special plaque for the occasion.
The catcher for the baseball first pitch was Madison Leger, sister of the late Chance Leger, a player in the summer baseball league who recently passed away. He was the son of Tara Richard and Brent and April Leger, and grandson of Jerry and Doretta Gaspard, Norris “Beaver” and Pam Leger, Judy Leger, Margaret Higginbotham and Wayland Roy. Members of the family were presented special plaques for the occasion. In addition, Chance’s initials were placed on all uniforms as this season will be dedicated to the angel who will watch over his teammates and fellow players.
Master of ceremonies was Rayne Recreation Director Rawyne Derise, who introduced Mayor Chuck Robichaux, City Council members and members of the clergy.
Pastor Gene Lee of First Baptist Church in Rayne provided the opening and closing prayers.
Over 500 players will participate in the 2016 summer program including baseball and softball.