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Sports

Amity Pop Warner Hosts Home Opener

Community gathers to pay tribute, cheer on youth football.

On Sunday afternoon, Sims Field at Amity Regional High School held an afternoon of tribute, football and food. Family, friends and athletes filled the bleachers to take part in the excitement.

Pop Warner is back in business and ready for another long fall.

The event, which hosted visiting Hamden, began early in the morning and ran through the evening. Before each game, a tribute to the first responders from surrounding towns was paid. At 9, EMTs were honored; at 11, the policemen; firemen were honored at 3.

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All stood in respect as God Bless America was played over the loud speaker, followed by a moment of silence. Then, the first responders were invited to partake in the ceremonial coin toss at midfield.

“It’s a good turnout on both sides,” said Tom Laugeni, who sits on the Board of Directors for Amity Youth Football, referring to both Amity as well as visiting Hamden.

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With American flags adorning the fence, inflatable Amity football players, and an array of food for purchase at the concession stands, a great deal of pride and tradition was in the air on Sunday, and a fitting tribute to America’s heroes was paid.

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