From staff reports
Tryouts for the Beaufort Ospreys American Legion Baseball 19u college level and 17u varsity level summer baseball teams are set for this weekend.
Tryouts will be held from 1 to 4 p.m., Saturday May 3, and from 1 to 3 p.m., Sunday, May 4 at Praise Assembly of God baseball field at 800 Paris Island Gateway.
Players are asked to be 20 minutes early, warmed up, and ready to start at 1 p.m. There will be a parents/coaches meeting from 1 to 1:15 p.m., Saturday.
For questions or more information, call Clay Stanley at 843-258-4198,
Sponsors needed
The Beaufort Ospreys are run on a nonprofit basis with coaches that volunteer their time.
The Beaufort Board of Education charges the team for the use of the high school fields won which they play. The BOE also requires the team to provide security for our games, pay for the use of lights, and pay for the umpires.
The Ospreys supply game balls at their expense. They charge gate fees and operate a concession stand which barely cover costs of umpires and security.
Last year’s field use was $1,500 plus a $500 donation to the Battery Creek athletic program, which was paid out of pocket from one of our coaches. This year, the Legion is fielding two teams, doubling the cost.
The Ospreys are hoping to find sponsors or donations to help cover expenses and enable the team to keep cost for parents and/or athletes minimal. The team travels all around the state, and travel costs alone are not cheap. The Ospreys play three-game series with each opponent with road games each week. Uniforms and gear are roughly $220 per player for up to 36 players and six coaches.
Any businesses or individuals interested in sponsorship or donating to the Beaufort Ospreys, call Clay Stanley at 843-258-4198.
