Registration ongoing for Westside Park summer leagues

The Community In Action group of Philadelphia-Neshoba County is bringing softball and baseball back to Westside Park for the upcoming summer league season.

“A lot of kids may have a harder time getting across town to Northside, so since we got the park baseball field on this side, it doesn’t make sense for it to go to waste,” said Johnny Beckwith of the group. “Hopefully we will draw the kids to participate when they can walk back and forth to practice and games.”

The league is scheduled to begin on May 20, with the season extending for a duration of four to six weeks.

“We don’t want the kids to have nothing to do when they are out of school for the summer,” Beckwith said. “We are hoping it will keep at least one kid out of trouble and give them the opportunity to have something to do, not only on the Westside but for anybody who wants to register.”

Registration began on Saturday, March 30, with additional registration dates scheduled for Saturdays, April 6 and April 13, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Registration will take place at both the Senior Citizens building and Westside Park.

For those unable to register during the specified times, alternative arrangements can be made by contacting the numbers provided below.

Participation requires a fee of $60, covering the cost of a jersey and hat for baseball players and a jersey and socks for softball players.

The league is provided to kids ages 6-13 and is divided into three categories: 6-8 years old (Coach Pitch), 9-10 years old (Kid Pitch), and 11-13 years old (Kid Pitch). 

Player selection for each age bracket will be conducted through a draft process, during which coaches observe the children participating in drills.

“I’m excited to give these kids the chance to play and learn the game, so they have a better chance at playing in high school,” Beckwith said. “They will have the chance to get mentored by a coach during the season, and hopefully it will help them become better young men and ladies.”

For more information or registration assistance, contact Johnny Beckwith at (601) 416-4450 or Eddie Willis at (601) 728-0311.