History of Montebello Baseball Assoc. (continued )
During the 60’s and 70’s a concessionaire served Grant Rea Park by
the name of M’s Irish. M’s Irish today lives in the hearts of tens
of thousands of youth that after each and every game would run to
her truck for a soda everyone called a “suicide”. After the retirement
of M’s Irish the city built a concession with restrooms.
But once again the Association expanded and the concession
stand was rebuilt. This time MBA members took the lead as fathers,
mothers, athletes, grandparents, and almost anyone with an interest,
built not only a new concession stand but an all-purpose room used
today by Baseball, Football, and City Programs.
Over the years the Association was given many
opportunities to host , present and promote many tournaments such
as the Los Angeles County of Stars ( 100 teams). Teams from Japan
and Philippines became sister programs giving our
athletes opportunities never before dreamed of. MBA became a
board member of the International Baseball Goodwill Tournament
in the early 80’s; this tournament had participants from the
United States , Canada, Japan, China, Philippines, and Mexico.
In 1982 MBA implemented its travel division “ Brewers”, the selection
of name was very simple its initials replicated MBA, also blue
and gold to match our official colors. They are no longer a part our
Association.
Our MBA Travel/Tournament Baseball continues today with teams
in all divisions that compete year round proudly representing
the City of Montebello.
At the peak of our program (1970 thru 1990) MBA averaged 800-900
athletes in season and would have 500 -600 during Winter Baseball .
That’s close to 1500 athletes annually.
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