INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (February 29, 2016) – A group of teens are doing their part to help at-risk kids learn the game of baseball. They are hosting a special camp Monday night for Douglass Little League members. The league faced a big blow last fall when thieves targeted their clubhouse.
The event was organized by Brebeuf Jesuit student Hugh Pebworth. He plays baseball at the high school and recruited some of his teammates to assist with the clinic.
“I hope that they will enjoy it and hopefully find it interesting and fun enough to continue playing and enjoying baseball for a long time,” Pebworth said.
Douglass Little League is based in one of Indianapolis’ six crime focus areas. The adults who oversee the program use baseball as a way to keep kids on a good track.
“They’re growing up with the gangs, they’re growing up with the drugs and that’s all they see,” said Berry Winston, vice president of the league. “So if that’s all they see that’s all they know. When they come out here and see other kids playing, doing something positive, we hope to instill that in those kids to where they’re just living positive live.”
The little league team is preparing to start a new season just a few months after thieves stole much of their baseball gear and concession stand equipment. Around 150 kids participate in Douglass Little League, which is mostly funded by donations.
Pebworth said he expects around 30 little league players to participate in Monday’s clinic. Eight Brebeuf players are donating their time to coordinate the drills.
The high school students are also planning a supply drive for the young players. They want to collect gloves and cleats for kids who don’t have access to the items ahead of the baseball season.
To learn more about Douglass Little League or to donate supplies, click here.
