FMB Little League opens registration
To the editor:
Fort Myers Beach Little League is embarking on its 60th year on the beach. We want to thank our community for making this possible. Without the dedicated volunteers none of this would have been possible. Our mission has not changed. We strive on our commitment to our youth. We want to remember all the past members of our league that have strived to make it all stay alive here in this small community.
We are affiliated with Little League, who serves 2.4 million boys and girls, has more than one million volunteers and 35 million alumni. Our tournaments are televised on ESPN and ESPN2. Little League’s alumni has some well known stars such as Derek Jeter, Joe Torre, Tony Hawk, Tom Brady and many others.
We offer T-Ball for our younger players ages 4 to 7. This is a instructional program where children learn the fundamentals of hitting, running, fielding and throwing in a fun environment.
Minor League is for baseball and softball players ages 7 to 11 to give them more experience in game situations. Fundamentals are still a heavy part of this program. Players will learn how to put their skills to the test in live situations.
Major league is for baseball and softball ages 9 to 12. Players at this level must try out for the team. Games are played against teams from all over the district. Players have the opportunity to advance to the World Series on ESPN.
Senior League is for baseball and softball players ages 13 to 16. This level features a 90′ diamond and a 60′ 6″ pitching rubber for baseball and a 43″ for softball. These teams play in several tournaments during the season. Skills and game situations are reinforced to help our players get ready for high school baseball.
Big League is for baseball and softball ages 15 to 18 for baseball and 14 to 18 for softball. This is comprised of teams combined from our district and usually starts after high school ball.
Challenger Division is for boys and girls ages 4 to 18 with intellectual and physical challenges. This program is run by our district and is a great opportunity for those individuals.
Registration for all teams is now under way. You can register in person at Bay Oaks on Sunday, Dec.14, from 2 to 4 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 20, from 10-12 p.m. or pick up a registration at Bay Oaks Recreation Center or 2801 Estero Blvd. Seagrape Plaza Unit F or call 463-6038. Also available online at www.fmbll.com . Registration is $65 per child. Scholarships are available upon request and no child will be turned away. Teams fill quickly so do not hesitate. Practices for travel teams will start in January and the rest in February.
Volunteers are needed for fundraising, concessions, coaches, umpires, and more. Please come out to help support your youth and community.
Rick Loughrey, president
Fort Myers Beach Little League