The crack of the bat, the cheer of the crowd, and the excitement of young athletes taking the field marked the start of another thrilling season for Pahrump Valley Little League (PVLL). On Saturday, March 15th, the league held its highly anticipated Opening Day, welcoming players, families, and the community to celebrate the official start of the 2025 baseball season.
League President Luis Banuelos was on hand to oversee the festivities and ensure everything ran smoothly. “Opening Ceremonies went very well. We had a lot of people volunteering to help us out,” Banuelos said. “We had a bounce house, a mechanical bull, some vendors—really trying to provide a carnival atmosphere for the kids. Something fun to keep them engaged and, hopefully, watching some baseball while they’re at it.”
This year, PVLL boasts an impressive 23 teams, ranging from T-ball to the Juniors division, which includes players ages 13 to 15. “Juniors is the highest division, and those players can compete until they turn 15,” Banuelos explained. “That age cutoff happens in June, so if they turn 15 after June, they can still play.”
The league operates under Little League International regulations, ensuring a structured and safe environment for young athletes. “As president, I make sure the league is run according to Little League regulations. That includes making sure all safety rules are followed and that every coach and manager is background-checked. Our goal is to provide the safest possible environment for the kids,” Banuelos emphasized.
With the season now in full swing, PVLL teams will compete locally, but for some players, the dream extends beyond Pahrump. “We do have groups that compete at the national level for the Little League World Series,” Banuelos said. “Our all-star teams go to Las Vegas to compete in District 4 tournaments. From there, they can advance to state and beyond.”
All-star selections are a collaborative process. “Each coach nominates players, and board members collectively vote to determine the final roster,” Banuelos explained. “It’s a fair system that recognizes hard work and talent.”
PVLL is guided by a dedicated board of volunteers who help organize and manage the league’s operations. Alongside Banuelos, the 2025 board includes Vice President Stephen Davis, Secretary Katie Loveless, Safety Officer Angie Curayag, Sponsor Coordinator Danielle Johnson, Player Agent Marcie Tillery, and Social Media Representative Alicia Magallanes. Additionally, Umpire-in-Chief Lynn Sells, Equipment Manager Ray Wagner, and Treasurer Bobby Lee Ward play key roles in keeping the league running smoothly.
As the season progresses, PVLL will continue fostering teamwork, sportsmanship, and a love for baseball in young athletes. With an enthusiastic leadership team and a supportive community, the league is poised for another successful year.
“We’re excited for the season,” Banuelos said. “Seeing these kids grow and develop a passion for the game is what it’s all about.”
For updates, game schedules, and more information, families can follow PVLL on social media or reach out to board members directly.
1 Comment
I would like to complain about the teenager umpire for the 8-9 year old games. I don’t feel he knows enough about the rules to be an umpire. last night he let a boy that was hit by the pitcher go to first when the ball hit the plate and then hit him yet he didn’t walk a batter that was hit in his helmet. He also did not call a boy out that was being chased and he went out of the baseline.