Contact:

Ryan Sanders 263-6497 Henry Wong 888-4379 Carolyn Gonzales 277-5920

February 7, 2002

UNM BASEBALL TEAM TO AID LOCAL LITTLE LEAGUES

The Lobo baseball players are determined to commit to a community service project. Local Little Leagues are always in need of help getting fields ready for play. The two groups came together like ball in mitt.

On Saturday, Feb. 9 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. the UNM Lobo baseball team and members of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority will visit Lobo Little League, located on Bryn Mawr off Menaul between Carlisle and University NE, and Thunderbird Little League, located on Bryn Mawr and Comanche NE to help the leagues get ready for the 2002 season.

"Probably 99 percent of our players came through Little League," says UNM Baseball Coach Rich Alday. "I think they can provide the younger players with positive role models. They can visit with the kids, offer them some help with skills on the field, but also tell them about what's important off the field - talk to them about making the right choices."

"We are excited to have the Lobo baseball players come out and help us get ready for the season. As players they understand exactly what needs to be done. They can help rebuild mounds and prepare the infields," says Gerry Hanrahan, Lobo Little League vice-president.

Thunderbird Little League experienced a rash of vandalism last year leaving them with needed repairs on fields, fences, doors, locks and more as well as the need to replace stolen equipment. "Little League, like other youth activities, help keep kids out of trouble," says Henry Wong, Thunderbird board member in charge of field maintenance. Wong, who is also an Albuquerque police officer, was upset when the fields were vandalized.

"We, as Little League volunteers, are doing our best to provide children with activities that help develop their minds and bodies. It's discouraging when people come in and destroy fields and buildings. We don't have the resources to refurbish and replace all that is lost. Having the Lobo baseball team come in here not only provides us with much needed assistance, but also boosts our spirits and reminds us what the game is all about," he says.

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The University of New Mexico
Public Affairs Department
Hodgin Hall, 2nd floor
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0011
Telephone: (505) 277-5813
Fax: (505) 277-1981