The Red Raider Baseball team hit a grand slam with a new event this year - “Swing into Spring with Baseball and Books.”

Earlier this month, the Red Raiders invited students from Meyersdale Elementary School to join them for an evening of reading and fun. Students were given the opportunity to meet and share a love of books with members of the team. At the conclusion of the evening, all of the youngsters in attendance were given a baseball signed by members of the 2023 Red Raider Baseball team.

Head Coach Paul Howsare said he and his players, as well as the coaching staff, enjoyed this outreach effort and were proud to share an evening on the field with the youngsters.

“Gala Wassilchalk and Bernie Donaldson approached me with the idea. Football does something similar and the kids seem to really enjoy it,” Howsare explained.

Coach Howsare said his players embraced the idea and were excited to welcome the youngsters to join them on the field.

“The kids benefit from being around the varsity athletes and getting to hear them read books that they see everyday in the library,” he explained. “It is good for our players because it keeps them grounded and provides them the opportunity to give back to the community and school district.” 

The coaching staff said they hope to make “Swing into Spring with Baseball and Books event” a tradition for the Red Raiders of all ages!