Members of the Calumet Region Baseball Senior League All-Star team will make their first appearance at the Indiana Senior League State Championship in Indiana but they need a little help to get there.
Gary Mayor Jerome Prince called on residents, businesses and elected officials throughout Northwest Indiana to help financially support the team during the four-day trip beginning July 22 in Greenwood.
The team needs to raise $6,000 to pay for meals, lodging and travel expenses for the 14- to 16-year-old players. Prince personally will match up to $1,000 in donations, he said.
“These young men worked very hard and played great baseball so they can have this dream opportunity, and people throughout Gary and Lake County can help make this dream a reality for them,” Prince said.
“These players have represented us with honor and integrity. Now, it’s on us, as residents, civic and business leaders, to pitch in and make this happen for them,” he continued.
Coach Earmon “Pooch” Hill said the team is made up of the former Merrillville, Gary Metro, Miller, Lake Station and Longfellow Little Leagues.
“We’re trying to give these young men from this area a di?erent experience, something they will remember for a lifetime. Imagine how many younger players these young men will inspire just by earning a trip to the state championship,” Hill said.
The Home Field Advantage Foundation, made of representatives from the City of Gary, U.S. Steel and the Gary SouthShore RailCats, made a $1,500 contribution.
“The Foundation has been supporting youth sports in Gary for years, so this is exciting for us and for everyone in Northwest Indiana,” Lou Martinez, the foundation’s director, said.
Alliance Steel LLC and Network Tax Services so far have answered the call for assistance.
Those wanting to help the team out may contact Hill at 219-808-9312.
Carrie Napoleon is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
