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Nearly 60 kids take steps to improve their game
Drew Fisher of Collinsville takes a swing off the tee while other players practice their fielding. Some of the defenders were on the other side of the fence. (Bulletin photos by Doug Kates)
Matthew O’Dell might be sitting next to a phone someday wondering if he will be selected next in the Major League Baseball draft.
That call may be many years away, but for the 12-year-old from Snow Creek, it’s already a dream.
O’Dell was one of 57 kids participating in the Summer Slam Baseball Camp at Jack Dalton Park this week. O’Dell is taking in the camp for the third straight year because he loves baseball and he’s trying to gain a head start toward his future career.
How much does baseball mean to him? Even as young as seventh grader, he doesn’t care which team drafts him.
“I wanted to try to learn more about the game,” he said. “I’ve learned a few things about fielding, hitting and driving the ball deeper in the field.”
This week O’Dell said he is learning more about base running. He plans on playing fall ball and definitely hopes to play varsity when he’s old enough.
Listening to O’Dell talk about his dream was enough to make Phillip Davis smile. He is head of the Virginia Bucks, who, along with Henry County Parks and Recreation Department, are in charge of the annual baseball camp.
Other instructors were Bill Parks from Bassett High School, Nick Ramey from Magna Vista High School, Chris Parker from Patrick County Community College, Greg Hilton and Randy Smith from the Virginia Dragons travel team, and Ricky Young, former local college and high school coach.
“The kids get to hit, field and pitch,” Davis said. “They all get a little time at each specific position. Every kid here, some time during the day, is going to spend time on the mound.”
The camp concludes today and was open to 7-14 year olds. There were hitting, pitching and fielding stations, and each day featured a contest, such as Gold Glove, throwing accuracy, and home run derby.
One assistant at the camp was Jonathan Morton of the American Legion Post 42 team. He’s volunteered his time all three years.
“I love working with kids who love the game of baseball,” he said. “I’d rather be here than home with the air conditioning on.”
Morton also appreciates the fact he gets noticed. Some of the serious young baseball fans watch Morton play and also have a lot of questions for him about the game.
“It’s a great feeling,” he said. “It makes you feel like you’ve accomplished something and given something back to the community.”
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