BBF embraces inner city baseball program

Sat, Jun 21st 2014, 11:36 AM

An up-and-coming but historically-connected baseball program has been embraced by the Bahamas Baseball Federation (BBF).
An all-star team from four inner city programs in New Providence is competing in the BBF tournament for the second consecutive year. The Community Baseball League of New Providence squad is made up of players from camps coordinated in New Providence by Ed Armbrister, Fred "Papa" Smith, Mario Ford and Andy Percentie.
The community league is from the so-called 'poor' side of the track - the Over The Hill section of New Providence. The program struggles for equipment and other necessities. Nevertheless, the team forges on, and Community Baseball League President Tony Scriven has high hopes for the players' futures.
"We are satisfied with where we are. We are doing something that will pan out later into a much bigger and competitive program. Right now we are focusing on the social aspect. These kids are from tough social environments. Because of that, we cover all of their costs when they travel. The parents and guardians are not appealed to for any funds. We get the sponsors and give them opportunities for exposure and social interaction with other young boys. I want to thank the Community Baseball League reliable sponsors who always step up to support," said Scriven. He was referring to Milo Butler Jr., Asue Draw, Bahamas Fire and Welding, United Sanitation, Beauty Shack and Tyrone McKenzie.
The league is growing quickly, however, and Scriven is appealing to others who might wish to assist with the wholesome development of the inner city boys, to come on-board. The potential is there for a bright future.
The historic connection for the Community Baseball League all-star team is Ed Armbrister. He is the only Bahamian to win World Series rings. He did so in 1975 and 1976 with the Cincinnati Reds. Smith played professional baseball and Ford has been running a camp now for almost 30 years, so the community league is well connected.

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