Taft College Little League Clinic
Coach Maiocco talks to the participants.
Richard Ortiz and Tyler Keith lead the stretching.
By Mark O’Connor
Whether you are 6 years old or 60, baseball is a common ground for all ages. The game is a powerful lesson teacher and something that has to be passed down from generation to generation.
On Sunday, April 9, the Taft College baseball team hosted a clinic for the West Side Little League. Little Leaguers, coaches and parents were invited to take advantage of instruction from Taft College players and coaches.
The group circles up to hear coach.
All that was asked of them to bring to the free clinic was their bat, glove, uniform, a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
There was an exciting turnout of more than 100 kids, parents, and coaches. The little league kids entered Cougar Field with smiles on their faces and amazement in their eyes when they saw the Taft College players tower over them. Eager to learn and have a good time the little leaguers quickly began to interact with the college athletes.
The participants broke up into several different stations where Taft College ball players looked over and gave instructions on the drills. There were bunting, base running, hitting, infield and outfield drills. Each drill took 10 to 15 minutes and then each group rotated around.
“I like that we get to interact with the players and talk to all the older guys,” said Ryker Scherer, an 11-year-old ball player.
Taft College sophomore Chase Nistor said “,Events like this help the team get involved with the community. It is always good to give back to the kids and help their love for the game grow.”
Cougar coaching staff and players said that being able to hold events like this will help the Cougars get exposure within the community.
Participants said that they were grateful that the coaches and athletes took time out of their day to give back to the kids.
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