THE PLAYERS ALLIANCE LAUNCHES “BAT 2 SCHOOL,” A NEW INITIATIVE TO INFUSE GROWTH OF BASEBALL & SOFTBALL IN UNDER-RESOURCED COMMUNITIES
Program Launches in More Than 10 Communities Across the U.S. To Provide Resources and Development for Local Public-School Systems
ATLANTA, GA – Following an exhilarating week in Atlanta for MLB’s All-Star Week, the Players Alliance (TPA) today announced the launch of “BAT 2 School,” a new initiative designed to provide an immediate infusion of resources to public schools to increase baseball and softball participation among kids from marginalized and under-resourced communities. The program is targeted toward school communities where the sport is either missing or underfunded.
BAT 2 School is launching in 10 cities across the United States, including Atlanta (GA), Cleveland (OH), Columbus (GA), Detroit (MI), Jackson (MS), Kansas City (MO), Memphis (TN), Montgomery (AL), Nashville (TN), New Orleans (LA) and towns throughout the Mississippi Delta.
BAT 2 School will seed growth of the sport in the form of grants for field renovations, equipment and technical expertise for youth coaches provided by former and current professional baseball players. One example of an existing program that will continue under BAT 2 School include TPA’s “Coaches Intensive Program,” which is typically geared at community and college coaches, that will now focus on the development of inner-city and diverse coaches across the country. These efforts will ensure that schools have access to the fundamentals of baseball and softball while also boosting the excitement and connection to the game among their students.
“We are thrilled to officially launch BAT 2 School, especially in Atlanta, one of our flagship cities and host of the Midsummer Classic,” said Curtis Granderson, Board Chairman of the Players Alliance. “Providing tangible resources toward the growth of both baseball and softball is our core mission. An added bonus will be the opportunities when we, as players, can be there to inspire the young student-athletes that a successful career path in the game is not only possible but within their reach!”
While in Atlanta, the Players Alliance launched BAT 2 School by presenting Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens with a ceremonial check highlighting the financial investment in Atlanta Public Schools. Additionally, the annual TPA Service Event was held at Benjamin E. Mays High School where youth and their coaches received direct tips and insights from a variety of former players, including Granderson, Edwin Jackson, Dee Gordon-Strange, Trenidad Hubbard, Marvin Freeman, Chuck McElroy and more!
About the Players Alliance
The Players Alliance is a nonprofit organization comprised of current and former Major League Players aiming to build more equitable systems in baseball and increase Black representation throughout the sport. TPA efforts include variety of programs built around participation in baseball, mentorship and professional baseball employee development. Additional support will include initiatives that celebrate Black baseball history and culture, educational grants, and service opportunities to communities.
