Welcome to fall baseball at Big Shanty Park.  My name is Bill Jones. 

Buddy Ditthardt and I will be coaching your boys this fall. Our first practice is Saturday at 12:00 on Field 2.  Please be there by 11:30 so we can have introductions and warm up beforehand and then we can get it at right at noon.

At this time, I also know our 2nd practice is 6:00 pm on Tuesday and hopefully by our Saturday practice I will know our full schedule and be able to get it to everyone.  Please try to be to all practices at least

15 minutes early.  I would like to be able to use our whole practice time to practice.  With that said, I also know that these boys are in middle school and do not get home from school until 4:45 or 5:00 so please just do your best.

Right now Buddy and I are the only 2 coaches.  If anyone else would be willing to help, please let me know.  The more folks helping the better.

A couple things in case y'all don't know, especially the 13 year olds

who are just moving up to Big Shanty.  1)    The boys must use a BBcor

-3 bat this year.  I can explain Saturday to anyone who isn't sure what that is.  2) They can wear metal cleats this year as well.  You will be amazed how they will go out of their way to find concrete to walk on to hear the sound of metal cleats.  3) They cannot wear cleats into the cages so please have them bring a pair of tennis shoes to wear in the cages when we hit.  Please do not allow them to wear slides.  All that has to happen is a foul ball of the foot and you have a broken toe if you are wearing slides.

The park provides uniforms but not pants.  We will get socks, belts, hats and shirts.  We use to give out pants, but no one ever wore them so we stopped.  You will have to provide helmet, gloves, bats and cleats. 

If you have your own catchers gear, that is great, feel free to use it. 

If we need catchers equipment I will get some from the park.  We will know that on Saturday

If you cannot be to a game or practice please please let me know.  I understand folks have things going on outside of baseball especially in the fall with college football, hunting, proms,  and whatever else there is.  As long as Buddy or I know you won't be there we can pick up players if we have to for a game or cancel a practice if we do not have enough kids.  Just please let us know.

I am sure I missed something so if you have a question please do not hesitate to call or email me.  You have my email and my phone number is 404-259-7629.  I look forward to meeting everyone on Saturday. See you at 11:30 on Field 2