The Palm Springs American Legion Post 519 is hosting a fundraiser this weekend for its baseball team.
Driving the news: The sock hop-themed fundraiser will benefit the baseball team, made up of high school athletes from across the Palm Springs Unified School District.
First things first: The Desert Elite Post 519 baseball team, coached by Ignacio Carlin, has 19 players ranging in age from 14 to 19. The team was officially formed only a few weeks ago and has played in several local tournaments against other American Legion teams.
State of play: Macarvie Crawford, baseball commissioner for American Legion District 21, said the team is working well together. After losing their first scrimmage, the team bounced back to win all three games at a recent tournament.
Why it matters: American Legion Baseball offers mentorship and scholarship opportunities for the players.
- The older kids who play on the team will soon get the opportunity to mentor younger kids ages five to 14 in the American Legion’s youth baseball program.
What they’re saying: “Based on American Legion statistics, 30% of the major league baseball players come through our system,” Crawford said. “We have a reputation that draws major league and college scouts.”
Details: The event will run Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at American Legion Post 519, at 400 N Belardo Rd., with music from SaintSteelWood beginning at 6 p.m. Food and handmade malts will be available for purchase.
- Any level of donation is appreciated, but the team is specifically looking for baseball equipment, especially equipment like gloves and helmets for younger kids.
