By Ron P. Coderre

Baseball may be the furthest thing from many people’s minds at this time of the year with the winter cold snap and snow that has a hold on the region.  For the members of the TriTown American Legion Baseball program the season is right around the corner.  Preparations for the 2015 summer season are already under way.

According to Joe Lindley, secretary of the TriTown Executive Committee, the group is issuing an early call for young men ages 13 through 19 who are interested in playing baseball this summer in the most respected and longest program in continuous service of the summer game.  TriTown fields two teams, the Junior program for youngster up to age 17 and the Senior program for players up to age 19.

The TriTown program has witnessed significant growth in the past six seasons in the quality of play and the number of players on the teams.  Although the season doesn’t begin until the high school baseball season is concluded in June, organizers are attempting to get an idea of the number of participants for the upcoming season.

“Our committee is meeting regularly and we thought that we’d attempt to get a jump on the season by seeing what our interest level is in the area.  I’m encouraging any young man interested in baseball to think seriously about playing American Legion Baseball.  It’s the highest quality program in the country,” said Lindley.

Any player who lives in Eastford, Putnam, Thompson or Woodstock is encouraged to call Lindley at 860 928-5527 or the team’s office in Putnam at RPC Associates 860 928-6772.

Jr. & Sr. Teams Looking for Coaches

One aspect involved in the success of American Legion Baseball is the quality of individuals who volunteer each summer to coach the programs.  Veteran coach Paul Faucher, who has been at the helm of the TriTown program for the past 11 seasons, tendered his resignation at the conclusion of the 2014 season.

“Faucher was an outstanding leader and coach of the young men in our program for more than a decade.  It is with great sadness that we accept his resignation,” said Lindley on Faucher’s departure.

There is a need for coaches in both the Junior and Senior programs, according to Lindley.  The Executive Committee is accepting inquiries from interested candidates for either head coaching positions or assistant.  Previous coaching experience is a plus but is not necessary.

Anyone interested in discussing the openings should contact Lindley at 860 928-5527 or the team office in Putnam at RPC Associates 860 928-6772.

“Coaching on the American Legion level is a rewarding experience.  Individuals can devote their time, energy and experience in working with these young players, while our Executive Committee manages all off field matters,” said Lindley.

“I’d encourage anyone who is interested in the opportunity to contact us as soon as possible.  Planning for the season is important and the earlier we begin the better we’ll be prepared,” Lindley said. Colleen Topliff

 

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