History of the Long Island Braves

The summer of 1997 marks the third year of play for the Long Island Braves. After a very successful 1994 Babe Ruth Baseball season, Coaches Steve Corvi and Paul Memoli recognized the need for more challenging play. They looked at many options, and found the Long Island Baseball Association (LIBA), and the Federation of Amateur Baseball Leagues (FABL) to provide the best competition. Most of their players agreed to take the step with them, thus forming the Long Island Braves. In a short time, our organization has grown in both size and reputation.

 During the first year of play, the Braves fielded two teams, a Junior Team, and a Senior Team. Although new to the league and mostly from Massapequa, both teams fared well, with the Junior Team earning a regional tournament bid. To celebrate the successful season, the coaches planned a family trip to upstate New York. The players were given the opportunity to play in the minor league stadiums in both Utica and Auburn, against stiff competition.

 At the beginning of our second season, a demand for better competition for younger players arose. The Braves added a Rookie Team (13-14 year old team), and they had a very strong season. After winning the 4th of July Tournament in Virginia Beach, they earned a regional tournament bid. The Junior Team earned their second consecutive trip where they finished second. They were also runners-up in the Western Suffolk Umpires' Tournament, and also participated in the Big Apple Umpires' Tournament.

This year also marks the first season for our college wooden bat team. With many alumni playing college baseball, we now provide a summer team for them to hone their skills.

 Our rosters have expanded to include some of the most talented players in both Nassau and Suffolk counties. Some of these players have represented the Braves in the Empire State Games and the Junior Olympics. This year's aggressive schedules include the highly touted "Beast of the East Tournament" for the Junior and Senior Teams, and the best local competition.