Parents form T-ball teams being mindful of COVID-19

COVID-19 restrictions have made it difficult to organize effective and fun outdoor activities for Canyon Lake’s children. A group of parents took it upon themselves to put together two T-ball teams that play a game against each other every week, all the while adhering to CDC recommendations for being safe.

The entire effort is run by volunteer parents who are simply trying to give their kids an opportunity to play some ball, Patti O’Malley, one of the parents, said.

“We call ourselves The Sandlot,” Patti said. “The kids have really benefited from getting weekly exercise, fresh air and having a small group to be a part of.”

Players of the blue Sandlot Team are, from left, Carter, Preston, Lavin, Hunter, Mattix, Beckham, Locklin, Keegan and Mikey. Photo by Patti O’Malley

The parents referenced a list of suggested guidelines by the CDC for putting together games. The players are always outdoors and don’t share equipment (they bring their own bats, helmets and gloves).

There are two teams in The Sandlot. They have matching Tshirts, with one team donning red shirts and the other blue. The two teams practice every Monday and Wednesday and play a game against each other every Friday.

The practices and games have taken place at Gault Field, but will be moving to Sierra Park starting Monday because of the overseeding that will take place at Gault Field until Dec. 14.

Photo by Patti O’Malley

Photo by Patti O’Malley

Photo by Patti O’Malley

Photo by Patti O’Malley