In a heartfelt ceremony, long-time Kingswood Oxford staff member Steve Cannata was recently honored with induction into the Greater Hartford Twilight Baseball League Hall of Fame, a significant milestone that marked his 13-year career in the league. The league, one of the oldest continuously run in the country since its inception in 1929, holds a special place in the hearts of those who have had the privilege of playing in it, including Cannata himself.

“I started playing in the league during my college summers and continued for about nine years after that,” Cannata shared, reflecting on the enduring commitment that defined his baseball career. The Greater Hartford Twilight Baseball League has served as a crucible for countless aspiring players, providing a competitive platform during the summer months when college leagues come to life.

Cannata’s induction was a momentous occasion, celebrated with a dinner attended by fellow baseball enthusiasts. The event included a special introduction by Cannata’s former coach, shedding light on his contributions to the league. As an added honor, Cannata, who was also featured on a radio station’s monthly baseball talk show, found himself interviewed in the process.

Expressing his gratitude, Cannata remarked, “I am honored to be included with the other players that were inducted and who have been inducted in the past.” For him, the induction represents not just personal recognition but also acknowledgment for the years of dedication he poured into a game that has been a central part of his life.

“To be included with them is a great honor. It is a nice acknowledgment for a game that I gave a lot of years to play, and I appreciate that they are recognizing me so many years later,” Cannata added, emphasizing the significance of the honor.

The induction ceremony turned into a special evening reminiscent of a mini-reunion. Cannata had the opportunity to reconnect with past coaches, friends, and others who shared the baseball world with him. The gathering allowed for reliving cherished memories and celebrating enduring connections forged on the baseball diamond.

Notably, Cannata’s son, Nick, is following in his father’s footsteps, showcasing his talent as a skilled ball player at the collegiate level. The father-son connection adds another layer of significance to Cannata’s induction, highlighting the enduring legacy of passion for baseball within the family.

Following his playing career, Cannata transitioned seamlessly into coaching and sports medicine. After stints at Central Connecticut and Yale, he found a long-term home at Kingswood Oxford, where he coached and served as an athletic trainer for over 30 years until his well-deserved retirement. However, he will remain as coach of the KO baseball team, continue his impact on the baseball community, and be dedicated to the growth of young athletes.

In the end, Steve Cannata’s induction into the league’s hall of fame is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport and the enduring bonds forged on and off the field. As a player, coach, and mentor, Cannata’s legacy continues to inspire generations of baseball enthusiasts, leaving an indelible mark on the rich tapestry of the Greater Hartford Twilight Baseball League.