The Tribune

By RENALDO DORSETT

Sports Reporter

rdorsett@tribunemedia.net

ONE of the most popular youth sports in the Bahamas saw one of its flagship leagues make its official 2015 debut this weekend.

Hundreds of young baseball players (boys and girls) in the Freedom Farm Baseball League gathered with parents, sponsors, coaches, family and friends to worship at Holy Cross Anglican Church on Saturday.

Following the service, the seven baseball divisions lined up for a parade of players to the Freedom Farm fields in Yamacraw.

Senator Greg Burrows said he remains proud the organisation has serviced the community as they celebrate the 27th season under the theme “Play Positive.”

“The play positive message has been a part of Freedom Farm. For 27 years we have done what we do and try to get young people engaged in wholesome activities and in this case it is through baseball,” he said.

The group of student athletes were addressed by a number of special guests on the day, both during the service and at the opening ceremony once they arrived at the park.

Prime Minister Perry Christie addressed the congregation at Holy Cross while other members of parliament, including Loretta Butler-Turner also offered remarks at the opening.

The highlight for many of the young players was interacting with the young group of professional baseball players recently drafted or signed to minor league baseball contracts.

Lucius Fox of the San Francisco Giants, Todd Isaacs Jr of the Cleveland Indians, Larry Alcime Jr of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Jasarado Chisolm of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Anfernee Seymour of the Miami Marlins, all former Freedom Farm products, were on hand at the opening ceremony.

The Giants won a bidding war for Fox, the 6’2” 170-pound shortstop who was the most anticipated signing of any international prospect in this summer’s class.

“I just want to tell you all to never take anything for granted. Many people want to be in your shoes so any time you step on the field, whether it’s for a game or just for practice just give 110 per cent,” he said. “The game of baseball can benefit everyone who puts their all into it.”

The players were challenged and inspired to be sportsmen and sportswomen, disciplined and always doing the very best. Parents were encouraged to support their offspring by attending practices, games and purchasing the equipment for the game. They were further requested to assist the Freedom Farm League, wherever possible, to include coaching, umpiring, scoring and maintenance of the fields.