Spring is here and we’re back on the baseball fields. It’s going to be another fun filled season of sunshine, hot dogs, candy bars, and garlic fries. OK, maybe there will be some cold evenings, wind, and infield dust in the eyes, but we’re on the fields in March, and half the country still has snow on the ground. I was talking to a baseball friend of mine in Boston, and they’re not even thinking about playing yet. Yes, California is baseball country, and we’re fortunate to live here. 

We’re also fortunate to live in this City. There is tremendous pride in our community, and it shows whenever a need arises. If something needs to be done, we get it done. If a field needs some fencing repaired, we get it done. If a backstop needs repairs, or replacement, we get it done. If we need new bullpens, we get it done. The best part is that the people in our community reach out and offer their help. They sincerely want to be a part of making our community better for everyone, and they’re not afraid to put in the time to make it so. 

Our BYBA volunteers are another group that put in a lot of time to make our community better. When we need someone to fill a spot, people step up. Being a member of a youth sports group committee, or a coach of a team, takes a lot of time, and time can be very precious. The dad that coaches your child’s team this season, will be putting in well over a hundred hours. Will he make some mistakes? Sure he will. Remember, he’s just a dad. But he’s putting in his time to make things better for the kids in our community, so be sure to keep things in perspective, and take the time to thank him. 

There will be some construction at Bayside Park this season. The Water Department will be doing some construction at their waste treatment plant alongside field #2. Hopefully it won’t impact our games, but there will be some inconvenience that can’t be avoided, so please be patient. 

I urge you all to spend as much time at the ballpark as you can. I understand time is important, but not as important as what you could be missing. This time in your child’s life will go by very fast. You will forget about the infield dust in your eyes over time, but you will never forget the “gapper” your child hit with the bases loaded. So, don’t miss it. See you at the ballpark,

Hank Sauer
BYBA President 

Note to parents: Two great guys retired from our committee this year. John Calvin and Phil Wang. They have put in many volunteer hours on behalf of your children. When you see them at the ballpark let them know you appreciate their efforts.