Leominster's 1996 state championship team honored at Polar Park

The 1996 Leominster High baseball team was honored at Polar Park before a WooSox game on September 20. Former players, including pitcher Tino Proietti and third baseman Rich Barnaby, participated in a ceremonial first pitch. That team, coached by Emile Johnson, won the Division 1 state title with a record of 23-2, culminating in a 5-4 victory over Peabody. Johnson not only celebrated the championship but also his 500th career win that year, and he remains the state's winningest Division 1 baseball coach. Many players traveled long distances to join the event, reflecting on their shared experiences and Johnson's influence in their lives.

• 1:31 PMYahoo Sports — Leominster's 1996 state championship baseball team honored at Polar Park