Arecibo launches youth baseball development league named after Rubén Rivera.

By THE STAR STAFF

The city of Arecibo, Puerto Rico is stepping up its commitment to youth sports with the launch of the Rubén Rivera Baseball Development League, an initiative designed to introduce the game to the island’s youngest players.

Mayor Carlos R. Ramírez Irizarry said encouraging athletic development among children is a central priority for his administration, and the new program reflects that goal.

“With great enthusiasm and in a family-friendly atmosphere, we kicked off the league last week at the recreational area and the Miguelina Colón Baseball Complex of ARVAJA,” the mayor said. “Children and their families gathered to support this important sports initiative.”

The opening activities highlighted the spirit of teamwork and confidence among the participants, giving young athletes their first introduction to baseball in an environment focused on learning, discipline and healthy recreation.

The program targets the youngest age groups, with divisions for Pre-Pamper (ages 3–4) and Pamper (ages 5–6). The goal is to foster early athletic development while teaching core values such as teamwork, perseverance and respect.

Practices take place every Tuesday and Thursday at 4:30 p.m. at the Miguelina Colón Baseball Complex of ARVAJA, where a group of experienced instructors—many of them former players—guide the children through the fundamentals of the game.

Among the coaches participating in the program are José “Cheo” Alberro, Héctor Javier Alberro, Jodam Rivera and José L. Santiago.

The league is named after former Major Leaguer Rubén Rivera, whose professional career made him one of the island’s notable baseball exports and an inspiration for young players.

The Arecibo municipal administration is encouraging parents and guardians to get their children involved while the league continues to expand.

“Families still have time to join,” Ramírez Irizarry said. “We invite parents to visit the facilities during practice days, learn more about the program and become part of this effort to develop the athletic talent of our children.”

For Arecibo officials, the league is more than a sports program—it’s an investment in the next generation, using baseball as a platform for community building and youth development.