ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – Holy Name Catholic School has launched a new sports program, giving some of its littlest students a big opportunity to learn and grow.
The newest athletes to join the Crusaders roster are young tee-ball players—some as young as age 3. With 31 players, the program has taken off more quickly than expected.
“We presumed when we first came up with the idea that we’d have two teams and we have actually four teams,” said coach and first-grade teacher Kristin Triest. “We have twelve wonderful coaches already, so our first year has really hit off great.”
On practice days, the teams rotate between stations that teach them the fundamentals of the sport at an age-appropriate level.
“Each of our stations has roughly two to three coaches,” Triest explained. “We just move the kids along to the stations where they’re actually learning drills of softball or baseball, whichever one that they’re going to go into.”
On game days, they hit the field for a bit of competition and a lot of fun.
“I like running around and running the bases and playing with my friends,” said tee-ball player Maddelyn DeGrand.
Players say they are developing new skills.
“We’re learning how to run better and swing the bat better,” Maddelyn said.
According to the coaches, the players are also getting social and emotional benefits from the experience.
“They’ve been out here having fun with each other,” said Triest. “That’s the main thing, like when you’re starting something you want them to have fun. It shouldn’t be all drills and everything, so we’ve definitely been having fun all together as a school family, which is beautiful.”
It’s another extracurricular option for Holy Name Catholic School, as well as an exciting way for students to stay active, develop friendships, and try something new.
“We’re starting things for our kids because we want them to have sports here,” Triest said. “Our goal is to start small and see where we can get.”
The Holy Name Crusaders season continues on Thursday evenings through the end of May. Games begin at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Parents of upcoming preschoolers and kindergarteners can call (906) 786-7550 to schedule a tour of Holy Name Catholic School.
