Haines Little League sprouted back up this spring after about a five-year slump.
Organizer and A’s team manager Anne Fossman said she wanted kids too old for t-ball to be able play baseball this summer.
“There really was nothing for the 9- through 12-year-olds,” Fossman said. “We polled a bunch of parents before we had registration to make sure we would have enough kids to field two teams. We wanted to give them the opportunity that other kids around the country have.”
Twenty-four players signed up, enough to field two teams. The A’s and the Giants will face off in 12 regular season games this spring and summer.
Parents and volunteers have stepped up to manage and coach, along with preparing Fair Field.
“We have cleared all of the alders and grass,” Fossman said. “Will Prisciandaro’s been dragging it with his four wheeler. There’s still snow behind the fence.”
Prisciandaro and Steve Fossman are coaching the A’s. Liz Segars is managing the Giants and Carlos Jimenez and Dayton Long are coaching the team.
The first game kicks off at 4 p.m. Saturday, May 12. Mayor Jan Hill will throw the ceremonial first pitch. Concessions, such as hot dogs and pretzels, will be served.
Fossman said Haines Little League had money left over to budget for new equipment.
The games will continue Thursdays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 4 p.m., although the schedule will change to accommodate summer special events.