In 1954, you could buy a nice new home in Indianapolis for about $10,000. You could put a new car in the driveway of your abode for about $1,700 and the gasoline for that new ride would set you back about 22 cents a gallon.
Yes, there was a lot to be happy about in those days, and that includes the inception of Douglass Little League Baseball, which will soon embark on its 60th season in Indianapolis. While the chill of the never-ending winter air was still upon them outdoors, it did not damper the spirits of the youngsters who were working out inside recently in preparation for the first pitch of the season which will be thrown on April 12.
Ronald Lyons, a seventh grader at Tindley Preparatory Academy has been anxiously awaiting the upcoming season. This is his third season playing baseball and while he enjoys the fun of the game and the camaraderie of his teammates, he’s looking to make some noise this season.
“We know the time to play and the time to get serious so we know how to focus on games and hopefully win a championship,” said the 13-year-old who said he plays all positions on the diamond except catcher.
Until then, he and area boys and girls exude plenty of enthusiasm and hustle and focus on the fundamentals of baseball under the watchful eye of their coaches.
“We want to make sure every child enjoys the game of baseball and all it has to offer,” said Timothy Kimbrough, the league president. “It is also about teamwork and teaching life skills as well.”
Ditto that sentiment from the most distinguished alumni of Douglass Little League, former Arlington High School stalwart and professional baseball player, Rodney Scott.
“My participation was a result of my late grandfather’s love for baseball and Douglass is where my career began,” said the base stealing phenom in a telephone conversation from his home in Georgia. “There is no question about those days being meaningful, as it provided guidance and structure to me.”
This season a parade and cookout will be held on opening day and the league is encouraging all who attend to donate non-perishable items for a special food drive they are conducting.
More than 120 boys and girls ranging from ages 4 to 16 will participate in league baseball and softball games this season, which will be played at both Charleston and Wes Montgomery Parks.
Team sponsorship this season is provided by area merchants such as Dirt Cheap Landscaping, Meridian Masonic Lodge 33, Bob’s Barbershop, and Furniture Outfitters. While there is a nominal participant fee, every child who wants to play is allowed to do so regardless of the ability to pay.
“We are a community resource,” said Kimbrough. “We appreciate the continued support of these young people as they compete.”
For more information, call (317) 319-6862 or visit sports.bluesombrero.com/douglasslittleleague.
Danny Bridges is an award-winning journalist and a longtime sports columnist for the Indianapolis Recorder. He covers college, professional sports and especially all things IndyCar racing. He can be reached at 317-370-8447 or at bridgeshd@aol.com.
