66°
Millions of American kids playing Little League baseball show up to the field with gloves, cleats and helmets that fit and are in good condition. Now, thanks to SportsNet New York and Sports Authority, players in Stamfords Jackie Robinson Baseball League will no longer have equipment that is worn out and second-hand.
For some kids we had to buy gloves, John DaRosa, an assistant coach for the Mezz Red Sox, said.
DaRosa was not the only coach in the league who reached into his own pocket to help the kids. Glenny Brown, coach of Wrights Mets, also donated equipment to the league, which he said needs a lot more support from the community.
My thing is, as long as they play, they are happy, Brown said of the kids in the league. He said without support the league wont be able to last.
In addition to individual donors, SportsNet New York and Sports Authority donated $5,000 for new equipment through their Play Ball initiative. League President Jerry Pia said he had tears in his eyes when he learned of the donation.
I got bats, helmets, and all other sorts of new equipment in my car, Pia said. The players, with ear to ear grins, helped Pia unload their new equipment from his car.
All of the kids in the Jackie Robinson Baseball League have been invited to Citi Field, where they will get to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the New York Mets play the Oakland Athletics on June 22. They will also be featured on the SNY show Kids Clubhouse.
How have you given back to the less fortunate? Share your thoughts and experiences below and add to the conversation.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Stamford and receive free news updates.
