The winners of the Hannibal Parks & Recreation Hitting League knocked the competition out of the park in the first league of its kind at Clemens Training Facility.
The six-week league gave athletes a chance to keep their hitting skills sharp, said Jacob Bone, facility supervisor. He said the league was a success and plans are underway for next year’s season. Each player on the 4-person team bats each inning and gets six pitches per at bat; games are seven innings or 45 minutes.
The following teams earned prizes for winning their divisions:
- 8/10U Softball: Going Yard had a team score of 445 and a record of (3-3)
- 8/10U Baseball: Dinger Dudes had a team score of 366 and a record of (6-0)
- 12U Softball: O’ Donnell’s had a team score of 692 and a record of (6-0)
- 12U Baseball: Copperheads Gold had a team score of 533 and a record of (6-0)
The following Individuals earned prizes for being Most Valuable Player of their division.
- 8/10U Softball: Kylee Denum had a score of 141 from team Going Yard
- 8/10U Baseball: Bennett Kretz had a score of 109 from Dinger Dudes
- 12U Softball: Mila Kretz had a score of 207 from O’Donnell’s
- 12U Baseball: Easton Mount had a score of 170 from Pike County Rookies – Morrison
Bone said the league offers a unique opportunity for players to compete in a structured setting while improving their hitting abilities. Updates on scores and standings are shared weekly so players and coaches can track their progress throughout the six-week period. He said, “The program is designed to foster teamwork, skill development and a sense of community among local young athletes. By organizing it in an indoor facility like the Clemens Training Facility, participants can enjoy the benefits of practicing in a controlled environment, regardless of weather conditions.”
Hannibal Parks & Recreations opened the Clemens Training Facility in 2022. It includes two batting cages, pitching machines, soft-toss nets and L screens to pitch behind.
The facility is in left field of Clemens Field, the previous clubhouse for Cavemen and later the Hoots. The building has been outfitted with a restroom, new lighting and heating.
The facility can be rented by teams Sunday, Monday and Wednesday; walk-ins on Tuesday and Thursdays. Rent the facility online at: https://hannibalparks.recdesk.com/Community/Facility
