Mickey Moniak Has His Day in Encinitas

ENCINITAS, CA — In July, not long after 18-year-old Leucadia resident and recent La Costa Canyon High School graduate Mickey Moniak was selected by the Philadelphia Phillies as the first overall 2016 Major League Baseball draft pick, the city of Encinitas announced that Sept. 14, 2016 would be declared Mickey Moniak Day "to serve as a reminder to the community that any Encinitas resident can accomplish their goals and ambitions, just like Mickey has."

As that day arrived, Moniak took time away from training on the East Coast to accept his proclamation Wednesday, Sept. 14, from Encinitas Mayor Kristin Gaspar at Encinitas City Hall.

As Gaspar asked Moniak to stand and be recognized, she joked that she "used to think it was pretty cool" that as a La Costa alumna herself, she was the first elected mayor of Encinitas.

"Then Mickey came along and just stole all of that thunder away," Gaspar said. "But I'm really pleased that you did, because we need more positive role models like you in our community. And I'd be remiss if I didn’t tell you how my young son looks up to you as well, as an outfielder playing ball ... We are so proud of you and can not wait to see your career unfold."

Following the reading of the proclamation, several of Moniak's family members, including his grandfather, Bill Moniak, who played in the Boston Red Sox organization and was once coached by Ted Williams, joined him on stage for a photo with Encinitas City Council members.

"We couldn’t be more proud of Mickey, and we’re excited that the city of Encinitas is showing him great support," said his parents. "Who knew our son would have a day named after him! It’s an incredible honor, and we’re so pleased to be a part of it."

Read more about Mickey Moniak on Mlb.com.