Asbury Park Little League: Field Renovation Project

Up to and including the 2006 baseball season, the Asbury Park Little League was playing on a field that was at best a sand lot.   We had no foul line fencing, an infield that did not drain water for days after it rained, unsafe bleachers, no pitchers mound, a huge tree growing 5 feet off the 3^rd base line, and no amenities such as a bull pen & batting cage, storage area, score board, or flag pole.   We still need to install “dug-outs”, reinforce the access road to the sewer for the public works truck, sod two areas, and extend the sprinkler system so that the sodded areas will also receive water.

The success of this project is only possible because of the tremendous support of  many, many individuals and organizations who believe in our efforts to provide a viable youth organization to the kids of our community.   The commitment to this cause by so many people is so greatly appreciated by the Little League and by the kids who play baseball.

The majority of the field renovation work took place for the 2007 season.   This past year in 2008 we were able to add field lighting and a very large storage area with team lockers.   Our field is now one that the kids can be proud of.  We point out to the kids that this field belongs to them and that it is their responsibility and obligation to take care of it.   Contrary to some of the nay-sayers, the kids have responded; I am proud to report to you that there has been no malicious vandalism at the field.

The 2008 season saw a lot of firsts.   For the first time in recent memory three of our teams beat teams from other towns in games.   The kids were able to see that with a little hard work and practice they were able to compete and win against teams from other towns.   Another first in the 2008 season was that, through a generous grant by Interfaith Neighbors, we had field lighting.   This was one of the reasons why our kids got better since they were able to play complete games throughout the season.  

Please take a look at the pictures of the field before and after the renovations by clicking on the Handout button below.   I'm sure that you will agree that this money was well spent.   You can also find in the Handout section a PDF file of our financials for the renovation project.   Should anyone have any questions whatsoever concerning this information, please feel free to contact Danny McKee, President of the APLL, at your convenience.

This project could not have been carried out without the unwaivering commitment of so many individuals, coporations and organizations in Asbury Park and throughout the United States.   The Board of Directors of the APLL and the kids who play on the field are forever greatful for this tremendous support.   Thank you.