Another honor in a HOF career:
Dick Vitale adds Little League citation

It’s been 61 years since ESPN’s Dick Vitale sported his first jersey in 1951 as a member of Garfield Little League in Garfield, N.J.

It was in Little League Baseball where Vitale developed his trademark passion and enthusiasm for sports and teamwork.

Vitale would also be the first person to acknowledge this in light of his latest Hall of Fame honor.

Little League Baseball announced Monday that the legendary college basketball analyst will be inducted into the Peter J. McGovern Little League Museum’s Hall of Excellence on Saturday, Aug. 18.

If you’re counting at home, this makes 11 total Hall of Fame honors for Dickie V.

“I’m so flattered. Little League Baseball was the first team that I was part of and I have some moments from that experience that are special to me,” said Vitale.

“I couldn’t run, shoot or jump, but I’ve tried to embody the values of Little League Baseball — like giving back.”

ESPN’s coverage of the 2012 Little League World Series from Williamsport, Pa., will begin Thursday, Aug. 16, and culminate with the World Series Championship game on ABC on Sunday, Aug. 26. Additional details will be announced in the coming weeks.

“Nobody gets inducted to a Hall of Fame by themselves. It’s about team,” Vitale said.

“I’m so fortunate. I am bringing my five grandkids with me to the ceremony. I have my family — my No. 1 team — and I have my ESPN team of 34 years and they’ve both supported me.”