Thurmont Little League Getting Ready for 2020 Season

The groundhog failed to see his shadow, meaning Spring is just around the corner! With that, Thurmont Little League (TLL) is busy making preparations for the start of the 2020 season. On February 4, a very successful fundraiser was held at Roy Roger’s restaurant. Many families came out to enjoy a great meal to benefit the league and to register their children in person for the upcoming season. An overwhelming response to spiritwear and discount card sales led to a hugely successful evening.

Over 50 TLL players from across all ages attended the Winter Baseball Clinic at Mount Saint Mary’s University. This three-part session, led by college athletes and coaches, was a tremendous opportunity for the players to get some practice in before the upcoming season. Everyone involved seemed to really enjoy this opportunity, and the league hopes to return to campus later this year for TLL Day during one of the Mount’s home baseball games.

Player evaluations were held for the minor and major divisions on February 15 and February 23. There was an excellent turnout, and the players seemed excited to get back into baseball mode after a long winter. Team selections will occur on March 1 and, weather permitting, practices will begin the week of March 9.

TLL offers many volunteer opportunities for families to get more involved. Outside of coaching, there is always a need for concession help and volunteer umpires. TLL will hold an Umpire Clinic on March 21 for any interested parties to see what is involved or to brush up on their skills. The league is in need of adult umpires ages 18-plus, but there are also youth umpiring spots available for ages 13-17. This is a great way to earn community service hours. Umpiring spots are available for a few, or several, games if desired.

For more information, please visit the umpire section of the TLL website. Please pass the word to anyone who may be interested!

The Thurmont Little League Board has been hard at work making plans for opening day, which is scheduled for Saturday, April 4. Along with a full slate of games, the day will also include an introduction of all players and coaches, as well as a special ceremony hosted by WFRE’s own Brian Mo. The first pitch will be thrown out by head Catoctin baseball coach Michael Franklin, who is the reigning Frederick County Teacher of the Year. There will be fun for all ages, with animals on display by the National Park Service, ice cream from Antietam Dairy, face painting, basket raffles, and more. You won’t want to miss out on the fun, so please mark this date on your calendar.

TLL players attend the Winter Baseball Clinic at Mount Saint Mary’s University.