WORCESTER, Mass. -"The Bravehearts understand baseball," said Worcester's Medical Director Dr. Michael Hirsh. 

A celebratory first pitch from Dr. Hirsh and Mayor Joe Petty kick off the 2021 Worcester Bravehearts season.

It's something fans of all ages have been looking forward to since August 2019.

One young fan said, "The last game we went to was against Nashua in the playoffs." Another fan in the stands said, "I'm very excited. I haven't been here since two years ago."

"To be celebrating the return of the Bravehearts, this means everything to me. It's awesome to be here," said another.

The team feels the same way after a year away from Fitton Field. It's now home sweet home for Worcester's boys of summer.

"Yeah there's definitely so much excitement within our clubhouse," said Bravehearts outfielder Nick Martin. "You know, especially last year playing at Doyle Field, coming back here at Holy Cross." 

COVID-19 restrictions limited the Bravehearts to a maximum capacity of 750 fans Wednesday. But when they're lifted Saturday, they're back to 100%, and the players are ready.

 "Some of the guys missed their seasons again this year. And the ones who did play played in front of no fans," said Bravehearts manager Alex Dion. "So I think everyone's chomping at the bit to get back out here."​​

After a trying year for many and a new team in town, the Bravehearts faithful are just glad to be back on College Hill watching baseball again.