sports

Dastoli Continues Work on Belanger Film to Honor Hometown Hero

PITTSFIELD — Dominic Dastoli never met Mark Belanger. The former Baltimore Orioles shortstop had stopped playing before Dastoli was born. Yet, that never stopped his interest from being piqued at the idea that a player like Belanger could come from the same hometown as him.

Belanger was born in June of 1944 in Pittsfield. A little over 21 years later, he made his major league debut on Aug. 7, 1965 with the Orioles. He went on to play for more than 15 years in the majors, earning eight Gold Gloves, winning the 1970 World Series and being named an All-Star in 1976.

Becoming a Proud Coach

If there is one thing you notice with this job I have, where I’m speaking with coaches on a nightly basis, it is that those coaches have a great passion for both the sport and their players.

These men and women take such great pride in both their work and the growth of their players, and make every effort to foster a family-type atmosphere and bond with that group.

Please Rise and Remove Your Caps

“Please rise and remove your caps for the singing of our National Anthem.”

I’ve heard those words more times over the past month or so than I can count. As a sports reporter, nearly every night I am attending a game of some kind. Prior to each of those contests, the Star Spangled Banner will be played, with all in attendance standing and taking off their hats