The Community Center of La Cañada Flintridge revamped its T-ball program at the beginning of spring to include more 4-to-6 year olds, adding playing time, fun and, perhaps most importantly, “Coach” Andy from Assist Athletics to oversee the season.

“Adding Andy Chidester from Assist Athletics was the best decision the Community Center made,” said Amanda Balcazar, the Center’s program director. “He brought a professional approach to the T-ball practices, added new drills and really worked one-on-one with the kids to introduce them to [the sport].”

Over 40 players participated to make up six teams – the Purple Princesses, Yellow Ninjas, Fiery Lava, Blue Robot Super Sharks, Moon Crank Crocodiles and Orange Cheetahs. Spectators came out to watch the practices that were held on the upper FIS field on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.

The Community Center recruited local student volunteers to act as coaches. They taught the young ballplayers how to throw, catch, stop the ball, run and bat. The giving spirit was evident by the volunteers who donated their time from Rosemont Middle School and Crescenta Valley, Flintridge Prep, and La Cañada high schools.

At the end of the season, the players were given T-ball trophies and the Community Center along with Coach Andy hosted a pizza party.

“We are looking forward to growing our program next spring,” Balcazar said.