Dixie Youth Baseball opens in Hughes Springs

By Rick Colegrove

In case you didn't know, it's baseball season, and in case you didn't know, baseball and softball is kind of a big thing in Hughes Springs. The phrase "start 'em young" applies its self just fine with citizens of this town. On almost every night of the week, you will find parents and coaches, offering instruction to the littlest of the t-ballers, to the oldest group of 14 year olds.

When a little girl or little guy comes to play ball, he or she can rest assured that from the time they are 4 years old to 14, they will have the age group to fit them, and coaches who have devoted their time and attention to provide all the knowledge that they have to try and grow and develop aspiring talent. There are 31 Teams in baseball and softball. Of those groups, there is a total of 351 playing in Hughes Springs this year, the most ever for our town.

The commissioner for baseball this year is Bit Griffin, and for softball it is David Patterson. There probably isn't a day that either of them aren't at the ball fields, paying close attention to the questions and concerns that are sure to pop up with concerned parents. One thing to consider though, parents, along with all of the coaches an assistants, these men and women are volunteers and have taken time away from their own families to help guide these young men and women and little boys and girls. The president of the Hughes Springs Dixie Youth Association is Blu Lowery.

This past Saturday was the opening day games and ceremonies for Hughes Springs. It marks the first time that such pageantry and fun had accompanied the first day of baseball and softball season. Along with a dunking booth, there were 3 bounce houses, donated by Space Jump, owned by Randy and Chad Penny. There was a photo booth and various competitions, and what baseball or softball game would complete without the food of course. Each player was introduced, just like in the big leagues. The Hughes Springs Mustangs varsity baseball team, and the Lady Mustang softball teams volunteered their time to add a special flair to the ceremonies.

The color guard presented the American flag, led by Mr. Mayo Kasling Sr. and Julia Beers sang the National Anthem. Third grader, Bryce Ratley, opened the games with a word of prayer.

Former big leaguer and Hughes Springs native Jarrod McKinney threw out the ceremonial first pitch. There were many people who came and helped out in this great and memorable day. Misty Lake spearheaded the opening day ceremonies, and did an amazing job of making it a day that Hughes Springs will remember and look forward to next year. But this year has just started and it is sure to give all who are involved with softball and baseball many other memories to make and witness.