Young baseball players in the Central Plains region will have the opportunity to learn from some very knowledgeable coaches. 

The Blue Jays Baseball Academy has identified three locations across the country to connect with youth and grow the game of baseball this summer. One of those is Winnipeg but they want to branch out beyond just the big city. So, on July 5, they will be bringing their clinic to Portage.

"They bring this initiation clinic and skills-development clinic across Canada for ages 8-13," says Portage Minor Baseball President Evan Peppers. "They come out for four hours to help improve skills and help generate interest in the sport for any new athletes that want to give it a try."

Peppers says this isn't the first time this has happened in Portage but notes it has been a while. He adds the primary goal of this program is to help youth build a lasting connection with the game of baseball.

"It's great for the community to be able to host this. It's a good chance to generate some new interest in the sport. It's an opportunity to give it a try, and then maybe you want to sign up for baseball next year," Peppers continues. "For the players already in baseball, it gives them a chance to improve their skills and grow a little bit."

He says the players will rotate through a plethora of drills covering a multitude of skills including; infield, outfield, hitting, throwing, agility, and baserunning. Peppers notes the fee is $99, with participants receiving a Blue Jays hat and shirt at the end of the day.

"The links are on our social media pages. Portage Minor Baseball Association on Facebook and Instagram."

After the youth clinic, Blue Jays Baseball Academy will also host a Challenger Baseball Game on July 5. This is an opportunity for players of all ages living with cognitive and/or physical disabilities to enjoy a game of organized baseball. 

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