By Matt Halprin
North Springs Little League will be all set to take to the field this coming Spring, when the program will celebrate its 20th Anniversary season. In 1995 when the league was established, its founders had a vision to provide both competitive and recreational elements for its participants with a continual effort to have play open to those of varying skill levels. The program’s foundation was, and still is, based on allowing the competitive player to further blossom while the recreational player could still have an enjoyable experience every time on the field.
“This year we celebrate our 20th Anniversary; we’ve had an incredible journey over the years to get here,” said Mike Hendrix, North Springs Little League president for the upcoming 2015 season. “The goal of the program back then (in 1995) was to create a family-friendly league where players of all abilities could play and improve.”
And those who have followed North Springs over the years can concur, as nothing seems to show better proof than standing the test of time, as the league may be considered the epitome of what America’s favorite pastime is all about for area youths. In fact, North Springs is one of the top three Little League programs in the State of Florida, having earned six State Championships, two Southeast Regional Championships as well as more than 50 District and Sectional titles, all while providing a safe atmosphere for the local sluggers to enjoy the game of baseball. The league, just this past season, sent four of its All Star teams to represent the program at their respective state tournaments.
“We’ve created an environment where we have been able to win some State Championships, but at the same time, offer a great instructional one for our new players,” Hendrix added.
In addition, each of North Springs’ managers (head coaches) are carefully chosen, in order to offer every player and every team the best possible opportunity of learning, enjoying and continuing the sport to whatever level suits them best. More than earning various championship titles for North Springs is the ancillary experience of being at the league’s home of North Community Park in a regular basis. From opening ceremonies that feature a parade of teams and a re-cap of last season’s accomplishments, to nail-biting post season and All Star play, North Springs has managed to encompass the complete package of what a community-based youth baseball program should still be about.
“We have an exciting season coming up that starts with our skills clinic (in January) and a full season of great games,” Hendrix said. “Families will be able to register for our program on November 1st and 15th, and also, on December 13th.”
For more info, visit www.eteamz.com/northsprings
