Big Island baseball families from Waikoloa have gathered to create a baseball outreach program for community children in partnership with Baseball Country, a nonprofit organization based in Ralph, Alabama. This well-established center is directed by former Yankee’s pitcher, Sam Marsonek, who has dedicated his post-MLB career in a mission to positively impact at-risk youth.
“We are so fortunate to have Sam and his family willing to support our local community children,” said Stephanie Gandomi, Program Outreach Coordinator for the Big Island. “Our community kids love playing baseball, and the greatest life lessons come from playing sports in a healthy, positive, and impactful environment.”
Baseball Country is planning on hosting community-based clinics and camps on the Big Island for the children in March 2023. Marsonek is already working hard on recruiting multiple other former major league and minor league players to assist with facilitating the program, and he has already gained early commitments from several retired players. The goal is to make the program free-of-charge to the local community, and with enough support, perhaps bring the program back to the island again in the future.
“I feel blessed to have former major league and minor league players and coaches interested in sharing their life experiences and professional skills with our island keiki. This unique experience will inspire us as coaches so we can continue to teach the kids life-changing skills. These are fundamentals they can use for the rest of their lives,” said Coach Steve Enriques, Little League Coach for Waikoloa’s 10U baseball program.
For more information about pre-registration for keiki players, sponsorship, or donation opportunities, contact Stephanie Gandomi at skgandomi@gmail.com.