It was hard to tell which pitch was more impressive – the one he delivered with his hand or the microphone.

Either way, Phil Waterford impressed at the Opening Day Ceremony for the Spreckels Park Little League over the weekend. 

The owner of Manteca Ford & Exotic High Line was one of three honored guests asked to make a ceremonial first pitch on Saturday morning. He was joined by Manteca Councilman Vince Hernandez and Manteca Police Chief Nick Obligacion.

All three popped the mitt with their throws, providing a rousing start to the baseball season on the southwest side of town. 

Before he took the mound, though, Waterford grabbed hold of a microphone, delivering a message to a standing-room only crowd. He spoke of integrity and showing appreciation to your loved ones and coaches. He shared the story of Matthew Hernandez, the Lathrop teen that returned a wallet lined with $2,000 back to its owner. And most importantly, he spoke of the virtues of hard work.

“Talent you have naturally,” he said. “However, skill is developed by hours and hours of working on your craft.”