Foundation Brings Play Ball Event To Fort Sill

The Rookie League Foundation hosted an MLB Play Ball Clinic last Saturday at Freedom Elementary School, which serves military dependents at Fort Sill. About 114 children participated in the first Rookie League-sponsored Play Ball event held on a military installation. Fort Sill is a historic base and current home of the United States Army Fires Center of Excellence.  

Providing volunteers for the event were USO Oklahoma and the Senior Leaders Course (NCO Academy) at Fort Sill. A special thanks goes out to Freedom Elementary School principal Sara Breeze for making the event possible and Major League Baseball for providing an official photographer. 

Dave Wells says the Play Ball event was a wonderful experience for his children Lucas and Tabitha. 

“We came out today to see if we could learn some baseball skills and my kids had a bunch of fun going through the drills and playing in the whiffle ball game,” Wells said. “We love the SWAG and really appreciate this opportunity.”

The Rookie League Foundation will host approximately 20 MLB sponsored Play Ball events throughout the State of Oklahoma in 2024. The latest Play Ball was held at Freedom Elementary School at Fort Sill last Saturday.

Rookie League Foundation Executive Director Carol Herrick says it is important that the foundation supports military families throughout Oklahoma. 

“Engaging military kids during the Play Ball event at Fort Sill not only fosters a sense of camaraderie and joy but also honors their resilience and sacrifices, highlighting the importance of community and support in their lives,” Herrick said.