BlueJacket's Host Baseball Clinic at Naval Base Kitsap

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Maebel Tinoko, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest

June 24, 2010 - SILVERDALE, Wash. (NNS) -- A local baseball team taught military children of all ages baseball fundamentals at the Naval Base Kitsap (NBK) Bangor Trident Lakes Park June 23.

The Kitsap BlueJackets baseball team, in collaboration with the Navy's Children and Youth Programs, hosted a free clinic on fielding, hitting and throwing. The team manager and several players conducted the instruction.

"Last year we had 20 kids sign up for this event, and this year it has grown to up to 120 kids participating. We hope to continue this baseball clinic each summer," said Chelsea McIntyre, Child and Youth Programs sports coordinator. "This is a great opportunity for the kids to get a chance to meet the BlueJackets baseball team members and learn about the sport."

"The children are very excited to meet the team mascot and have a chance to learn about life skills and how to be a team player," added McIntyre.

Trevor Bloom, BlueJackets baseball team member from Sacramento State, said being able to give back to the community means a lot to him.

"It is important to give back to our military community because these kids' parents do a lot for our country, and this is how we can show our support to the service members who continue to protect our nation," said Bloom. "I love teaching kids how to play baseball, and I enjoy being able to teach them about a sport I am passionate about."

Children experienced a day filled with sport activities and baseball drills. They were also treated to a barbeque and took photos with the team mascot.

Chief Sonar Technician (Submarine)(SS) Jorge Lara, USS Ohio (SSGN 726) (Blue) information technology leading chief petty officer, from Brownsville, Texas, said the clinic teaches the children about more than just the game.

"This is a great program for the kids because they learn about baseball and also about the importance of teamwork," said Lara. "This is a good opportunity for children to learn about a new sport and be involved with the community."