Scotts and Major League Baseball launched the first of six youth baseball and softball field refurbishments that will take place during the 2016 MLB season under the It’s Good Out Here™ Field Refurbishment Program.
As part of a renewed national partnership announced earlier this year, Scotts and MLB have pledged to refurbish youth ball fields around the country over the next three seasons.
“These field refurbishments are just one way we can give back to youth and communities across the country,” said Mike Davitt, Director, Fertilizers and Durables. “Encouraging fans and family to get outside and enjoy activities like baseball is what this program is all about.”
In partnership with the Atlanta Braves, Tom Conley Field in Ladson, SC, was the first field to be refurbished this season. Tom Conley Field received a new infield sod as well as new fencing and backstops, scoreboard, grading the infield, painting the dugouts and a new pitching rubber and home plate.
The new field was unveiled at a special dedication ceremony with Mike Davitt, Director of Fertilizers and Durables for Scotts, MLB Special Advisor on Youth Programs and Outreach Cal Ripken, Jr. and Jim Allen, Atlanta Braves Vice President of Corporate Partnerships.
“It was neat to see the kids’ faces as they walk out here on the field. It’s like opening day.” said Cal Ripken Jr. “For these kids, they can certainly feel like a big leaguer on a field like this. That’s a great thing.”
The field refurbishments are our way to honor those who have committed themselves to ensuring America’s favorite pastime carries on; people like Clyde King, commissioner of the Ladson Little League, who has given 45 years of his life to ensuring kids have a fun and safe environment to play baseball and make memories ‘out here’ in Ladson. The Ladson Youth Organization serves over 500 youth, with programs for kids 3 to 19 in a variety of sports including T-ball, baseball, softball, football and cheerleading.
South Carolina is a very important market to both Scotts and Atlanta Braves, so we collectively decided to look for an inspiring story throughout the Palmetto State. After meeting with Clyde King and learning of his dedication and commitment to youth baseball for the past 45 years, we knew we had a great opportunity to make a difference.
