High school all-stars shine at LeLacheur Park – Lowell Sun

LOWELL — One by one, the boys of summer took the field at LeLacheur Park.

As did the girls of summer. And the boys and girls of both winter and fall.

The Lowell Spinners weren’t the only ones on the diamond Tuesday evening, as the Lowell Sun’s high school all-stars were honored in a ceremony prior to the night’s game against the Hudson Valley Renegades. Athletes from all sports and every school in the Sun’s coverage area were recognized.

“It’s a pleasure for us to associated with such talented student-athletes, both in the classroom and on the field,” Spinners general manager Shawn Smith said. “This is what we’re all about: Serving our community and honoring those who do great things. We couldn’t ask for anything more.

“It’s the right thing to do.”

Lowell Sun high school all-stars, from left, Becca Smith (Shawsheen Tech softball), Emma Gelineau (Chelmsford softball) and Jessica MacFadgen (Greater Lowell Tech softball) take in the sights before Tuesday night’s Spinners game at LeLacheur Park. (Lowell Sun / Julia Malakie)

Chelmsford’s Emma Gelineau took in the sights and sounds from in front of the Spinners dugout before the ceremony began, smiling and waving to friends and family. A first-time softball all-star, the rising senior said she was proud to be part of the event.

“It’s a unique experience,” Gelineau said. “I’m loving it. Being an all-star is special. Everyone who is here deserves to be here.”

Greater Lowell baseball teammates Cole Blades and Brian Bosia, both seniors this upcoming school year, looked over the contents of the Spinners dugout and chatted with their high school coach, and Sun baseball Coach of the Year, Dave MacLaughlin.

“It’s a cool experience,” Blades said. “We had a great season and it’s great to be honored.”

“It’s pretty cool to be able to look up in the stands and see your friends and family,” Bosia added. “And it’s amazing to be known as one of the best of the best in your sport.”

Dozens of all-stars milled along the first-base-line, awaiting the ceremony, many first-time selections who beamed with pride. Dracut’s Megan MacKay said her field hockey statistics made her think she had a chance to be named an all-star, but there was always a little doubt.

“Looking back, I had some of the best stats of any goalie for things like save percentage, but it’s still weird to earn the recognition,” said the former Middie netminder, who graduated this year. “I’m not used to being in the spotlight, but this definitely isn’t bad.”

Lowell Sun all-stars Brett Lindsay (Pelham football), left, and Manny Baisley (Pelham lacrosse) take part in Tuesday’s pre-game festivities. (Lowell Sun / Julia Malakie)