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Hofstra Baseball Coach Celebrating St. James-Smithtown's Journey to the Little League World Series

Strolling down memory lane, former Met and Long Island native Frank Catalanotto enthusiastically tracks the progress of his old team, St. James-Smithtown, in their pursuit of the Little League World Series. He keeps a close eye on their performance, expressing his eagerness by stating, "I try...

Hofstra baseball coach delighting in St. James-Smithtown's advance towards LLWS Championship
Hofstra baseball coach delighting in St. James-Smithtown's advance towards LLWS Championship

Hofstra Baseball Coach Celebrating St. James-Smithtown's Journey to the Little League World Series

In the heart of Long Island, the St. James-Smithtown Little League team is making waves in the baseball world, with their sights set on the Little League World Series. Among those rooting for their success is a local hero, Frank Catalanotto.

Originally from Smithtown, Catalanotto, a former Met, has seen the love for baseball endure in the area. His number 27 was retired by the St. James-Smithtown Bulls last year at their home of Gaynor Park, a place he credits for igniting his passion for the game during the late 1970s and early '80s.

Catalanotto, who currently manages the Hofstra Pride baseball team, passes by Gaynor Park every day and expresses enthusiasm for the current team from St. James-Smithtown. He finds it an honor to have his number retired by the St. James-Smithtown Bulls.

Jeremy Katz, a star hitter on the team, finds inspiration from Craig Biggio, the only MLB alum from his hometown of Kings Park. Katz, who lives nearby in Kings Park, aspires to be the second person from Kings Park to make it to the majors, following in Biggio's footsteps.

Catalanotto offers advice to the New York state champs, encouraging them to stay calm under pressure, relax, have fun, and enjoy the experience. His words echo those of Biggio, a player he admires for his success and hometown connection.

The St. James-Smithtown Little League team will face teams from Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New Jersey on Saturday, with only one spot in the Little League World Series available. As they prepare for the big game, they carry the support and wisdom of local legends like Catalanotto and Biggio, who continue to inspire a new generation of baseball players.

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