Griffons share secrets of success on the field with area youth at camp

Dozens of local youth, the future of baseball and softball in Vernon County, gathered Tuesday at Lyons stadium to learn as much as they could from mentors who stepped up to the plate and offered some of their skill and knowledge to the youth. The Nevada Griffons' annual youth baseball and softball camp began Tuesday. Ranging in age from 6 to 15 years, the young baseball and softball players agreed it was a good opportunity to learn, despite having to wait an extra day for the event to begin because the first scheduled camp day was rained out. Isaiah, 9, plays baseball with the Greenfield team, and he's now a two-year veteran of the Griffons' annual camp for youth. He came to learn whatever he could, but said he mostly wanted to focus on "my hitting. That's the biggest thing." In fact, there were several young players who'd attended the camp in the past, and all of them indicated they'd do it again if they got the chance. Tiffany just started playing softball two weeks ago, and said she "just wanted to learn more stuff," as much as she could during the event. Just an hour after the camp began, Tiffany reported she'd already learned some new techniques and stepped up to batting drills with apparent new confidence. Griffons players divided the children into groups and rotated the groups through various stations, exposing them to techniques to be used in hitting, catching, pitching, running bases and fielding the ball. Parents looking on were pleased that the kids had the opportunity to learn the skills they'll need to help them be more successful on the field, and praised the opportunity for participation and fun for the kids regardless of skill level. Youth participating in the camp will receive a T-shirt and formal recognition during a Griffons game.