In spite of the wet and chilly May weather, the Jamaica Plain Regan Youth League is well into its 42nd season of providing sports opportunities for young people. Thanks to dozens of local sponsors, more than 800 local boys and girls are currently playing baseball and softball on 55 teams, with games held every day of the week and all day Saturday.
In almost every division there are close pennant races, with several teams jockeying for position at the top. Once the playoffs start, every team gets a fresh start and a chance to win the championship. Most importantly, young people are learning new skills and making new friends in a safe and supportive atmosphere.
Children’s Hospital Boston became the newest sponsor of the league with a generous donation of several hundred instant ice packs and two-dozen first aid kits. In addition, CHAMPS Boston has given the league vouchers to purchase new equipment.
The spring season culminates in an end-of-the-year picnic on June 25 for players and their families. Following the spring season, the league will send several teams to the Mayor’s Cup baseball and softball tournaments held in July.
The JP Regan Youth League also operates summer baseball programs for boys and girls ages 13-18. Summer registration is now open. Families interested in getting more information about summer baseball or volunteers interested in helping coach can call 617-983-1563 or send an email to [email protected]. The league is also looking for additional local sponsors for the summer league teams.
For more information about the JP Regan Youth League visit www.reganyouthleague.org.
The writer is the president of the JP Regan Youth League.