The Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine is going blue for the fifth summer in a row thanks to a partnership with the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF).
The Long Beach Youth Sports Program will directly benefit from a $53,790 grant from LADF accepted by the City’s council April 12, which will fund T-Ball, coach pitch, baseball and softball for those between the ages of four and 17.
Over the past five years, the City has helped enroll over 2,500 youths into the program, according to a statement from the city. The foundation experienced a brief hiatus in 2020 due to COVID-19 regulations and returned in 2021 to support 828 youth baseball and softball players.
“The partnership with the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation is leveling the playing field for children from all backgrounds to be able to experience the fun and excitement of being part of a team,” said Mayor Robert Garcia in a statement. “Since 2017, the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation has enriched the lives of hundreds of Long Beach youth and this year’s Dodgers Dreamteam program promises to continue that tradition.”
The Dodgers Dreamteam is a sports-based youth development program that, for the fifth year, will provide uniforms, sports equipment and services to meet basic needs, education and health care, according to their website. Those enrolled will also receive access to Dodger Days at the stadium, fitness and nutrition clinics, coaches’ training, player development training and college and career accelerator workshops.
The Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine was just one of 13 programs to receive the grant from LADF. The foundation was made to “provide an inclusive, barrier-free sports-based youth development program that is typically reserved for the elite,” according to its website.
Teams are primarily based by which park location participants choose to ensure that there is enough space and practice time for each league. Games and practices vary for each of the leagues, which are separated by age and gender, but they will all take place throughout 23 parks in Long Beach.
There will be a total of eight games for T-Ball and coach pitch, and a total of 12 games played for baseball and softball.
Those interested in registering for a summer league have until May 31 to either register online or go to the Long Beach Youth Sports Office at 5001 Deukmejian Dr. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. There are 924 total spots offered, with over 600 already claimed.