Monroe's Buddy Ball ends successful season MONROE - While the New York Yankees and the New York Mets battled it out in their subway series last weekend, "Yankee" and "Mets" history was made right here as the first season of Monroe Township's Buddy Ball program came to a close. "It has been a great experience for our players, who range in age from 4 to 21," said Mike Peto, president of the Monroe Township Baseball Association. "They all learned so much and have really come along in their skills and appreciation of the game." According to Su Reiser, assistant director of the program, the players - all of whom have some type of disability - weren't the only ones to learn a few lessons. "All the coaches and adult volunteers really enjoyed the season. But the kids who volunteered as 'buddies' and 'buddies in training' were really the stars," she said. A parade and awards ceremony were held on Saturday, and awards were also given on Sunday so that all players could attend and receive their trophies in person. Players received trophies and gifts, and the volunteers were recognized and praised for their commitment to providing recreational baseball to special-needs players. Additionally, the volunteer team photographer and Monroe Township resident, Robert Garafalo, presented each player with a special CD/DVD that included more than 1,400 photos from throughout the season. A special Father's Day game was held with Monroe Township Mayor Richard Pucci, Township Councilwoman Leslie-Koppel-Egheird, Recreation Advisory Board Member Dom Scarano and Monroe Patrolman Joe Chervenyak on hand to provide certificates and commendation. Additionally, Sammy Georgianna brought his vintage firetruck, which was decorated with the Buddy Ball banner and, at times, the players themselves. The game's opening pitch was thrown by Richard Hoffman, father-in-law of coach and director Jack Bobish. The group of volunteers is hoping to start a similar program for basketball this fall and is looking for players and volunteers. They are also recruiting players and volunteers for the 2008 baseball season. Anyone interested in playing or volunteering should contact Su Reiser at (732) 792-7827 or Jack Bobish at (732) 521-4454.