Gloomy skies didn't keep the Coast from launching their first youth clinic

By Nina Corral

LONG BEACH, Calif. — On May 9, the Long Beach Coast hosted its first youth clinic at its home field, Blair Field. From the sound of kids running around to the music playing through the speakers, this clinic brought together the next generation of players, welcoming young athletes from across the Long Beach community.

Long lines of campers and families formed as participants checked-in and eagerly awaited their chance to learn from the players. Upon entering, they were welcomed by Rockview Family Farms, where they could grab free milk, pick up a free cow figurine, and take a picture in the iconic Milk Car.

Today’s event was also the official kick-off event announcing the Coast partnership with the Port of Long Beach. The President of the Port of Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners Frank Colonna and Port of Long Beach CEO Dr. Noel Hacegaba were in attendance to lead the campers in a cheer. The Port community team was also on site connecting with families and handing out water bottles.

The event would not have been possible without Sports Basement, who donated the equipment used throughout the clinic. The Coast continues to highlight the importance of community involvement through partnerships with local organizations.

THE HEART OF THE GAME

Blair Field was packed with families in the stands while the next generation of players took over the outfield. Today’s clinic consisted of five stations: hitting off a tee, live hitting, fielding, catching, and running.

The clinic was operated by Coast players, coaches, and Long Beach Dirtbag Players and coaches. Long Beach Dirtbags Director of Pitching Development, Alex Mihalakis, said the event was a great opportunity for players to get out and be around the kids.

“Everyone’s all smiles, everyone’s having fun,” Mihalakis said. “It’s nice for the players to connect with the Long Beach community. It’s good to be with the Coast and get all tied together before they head into their season.”

As the clinic continued, players spent time signing autographs, posing for pictures, and encouraging campers at each station. For Coast pitcher JJ Almeda, the event was about more than baseball, it was about giving back to the next generation.

“Being able to give that back to the younger generation is pretty great,” Almeda said. “It feels good to help them out and get them moving around.”

Coast pitcher Mauricio Aguilar believes the game can bring people together.

“The relationships and knowing that the community cares for them is what I want the kids to take away,” Aguilar said. “The players aren’t something that’s unattainable, they can reach out to them in some way.”

As the clinic wrapped up, kids and families left Blair Field with new memories from the day’s activities. Before leaving, campers received clinic shirts and a free ticket to a Coast game, along with time for final photos and autographs with players.

The Coast will begin Spring Training May 12–17 at Long Beach City College, continuing their preparation for the upcoming season. Opening Day is set for June 2 at Blair Field, marking the start of a new chapter for the organization.