The Daily Dispatch

Young baseball athletes can get a chance to improve their skills at hitting, pitching and fielding.

The City of Douglas and Arizona Public Service is offering a baseball clinic to the first 100 young athletes that register for the workshop, said David Cota, recreation program supervisor for the City of Douglas.

The last day to register is Sept. 13. The clinic begins Sept. 15.

Young athletes must register on a first come-first serve basis at the Recreation Center at 919 3rd Street. There will be no on-site registration, Cota said.

The clinic focuses on improving the main aspects of the game by participating in a series of exercises and drills that teach proper form and technique.

The instruction is based on one-on-one discussions that also foster the six pillars of character--trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.

These are the virtues that translate into success in all aspects of life.

The participants are required to bring their own gloves and cleats, Cota said.

"This is a great opportunity for boys and girl, ages 10 through 15, to improve their skills," Cota said.

APS is funding two clinics, one from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and the other from 1p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Participants will get a Power Players shirt, a hat and a wristband, Cota said. They will also get an opportunity to have their equipment autographed by major league players.

Participants are encouraged to dress in baseball attire or in comfortable exercise clothing, he said.

The clinic will be held at the Copper King Stadium at the Joe Causey Park/15th Street Park.

Parents or guardians will be responsible for transporting the children to and from the clinic.

The clinic is sponsored by APS and co-sponsored by the City of Douglas and the Arizona Major Leagues.

For more information call the Recreation Center at 364-2496.