Townies lose home opener but win one in emotional tribute to a former EP baseball Captain

They were classmates and graduates of EPHS, Class of 1998. Current Townie Head baseball coach Bobby Rodericks and Justin Rocha played on a talented baseball team under former coach Joe Smith. Rocha was an accomplished All-State athlete, and captain of both the baseball and football teams. During his senior year he was named MVP of the baseball team and helped lead the football team to an undefeated state championship title. He also played softball for the Warwick and Providence Firefighter Leagues.

Rocha, age 43 when he died this past October, was a Warwick Firefighter for 17 years. He left behind his wife Jessica and children Cole and Riley Rocha. Today was bittersweet for Justin's family as Rodericks invited them to attend the inaugural Townie baseball game at the school's brand new ball field. Justin's mom, wife, children and other family and friends were there. "Our team is dedicating this season to the memory of Justin Rocha. We hope to keep his dedication to Townie athletics alive," said Rodericks.

In a move that brought a solemnity to the ballpark, Rodericks named young Cole Rocha an honorary team Captain and asked the young Rocha to throw out the first pitch. To the cheers and some tears in the large crowd, Cole Rocha fired a strike to Rodericks who was at home plate. In the crowd was former Townie baseball coach, Joe Smith. Smith, now long retired from teaching and coaching, came back to honor his former field captain and marveled at the new ball park. "We had a good team back then. Justin was one of the state's best," said Smith who stayed and watched the entire game.

As the Rocha family gathered toward the end of the game, former Townie classmates bid farewell and Jessica Rocha thanked everyone. "This was a very moving day for our family. Thank you all so much," said Jessica Rocha.

"Cole was nervous but did a great job. Thank you coach Bob Rodericks and the Townie team for this special heartfelt moment. We're feeling blessed and thankful for the love that surrounds us. Go Townies," said Justin's mom Joan Perry.

No, the scoreboard wasn't what the Townies had hoped for, but in the end those in attendance left with a feeling of Townie Pride and love for one of their own who passed way too young. "Opening Day here at East Providence High School will be forever memorable despite the 4-1 loss to a well respected Chariho baseball program," said coach Rodericks after the game. "My very close group of friends lost someone special to us. I had the pleasure of being teammate and fellow captain in high school with Justin which solidified our lifelong friendship. Having his family and friends here today, especially at EPHS’s opening day, would have made Justin proud knowing his Townie roots will forever be embedded in the baseball program," added the EP coach.