Williams Baseball team holds clinic in North Adams
WILLIAMSTOWN, MA--The Williams College baseball team put themselves in head coach Bill Barale's shoes on Friday, making their second annual appearance at a clinic for the North Adams Neighborhood Baseball League. The league came into existence three years ago through the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition (NBCC) with the intent of giving area kids who may not otherwise be able to play organized baseball a chance to play.
This year, as last, the clinic was enjoyed by kids and Williams baseball players alike. After going through throwing, ground ball, and fly ball drills, the Neighborhood Baseball League members got to test what they learned by scrimmaging, playing hard until the smell of grilled hamburgers and hot dogs soon lured everyone off the field.
The clinic doubled as an end of the year banquet for the league, comprised of four teams of all ages.
Much credit for the event belongs to Williams senior and hockey player Will Bruce, who orchestrated the baseball team's involvement the last two years.
"I think the kids really enjoy working with some older guys who've made it to the next level, and who they can look up to," said Bruce. "Last year one of the kids told me after the clinic that he now wanted to play college baseball."
Will also thanked Williams dining services, which went above and beyond in supplying food for the cookout. Although Will will be graduating this year, the Williams baseball team certainly plans on continuing their involvement, as outfielder Trey Pendery echoed the sentiments of the team, "It's a great event, and I love working with these kids."
