News Summary

In Great Falls, community advocates are raising $101,000 to fund a high school baseball program. They have already collected $32,000, showcasing strong community support. With over 1,000 youth athletes interested, the initiative aims to address funding challenges and health concerns to begin play by March 2026.

Great Falls Community Rallies for High School Baseball Program

In the bustling city of Great Falls, there’s a spirited push brewing to bring high school baseball to the students. The local Advocates for High School Baseball are currently on a mission to raise an impressive $101,000 by August 1st, and they’ve made a promising start with nearly $32,000 already in the pot. This heartfelt campaign is all about ensuring local kids get the chance to hit the diamond for their school, and it’s gaining significant traction within the community.

Young Aspirations Fuel the Drive

At just 13 years old, Teegan Gunter has been swinging a baseball bat since he was a toddler. With dreams of playing for his high school team, he embodies the kind of passion and commitment that makes youth sports so special. He’s not alone in his dream. Teegan, who formed a close friendship with fellow aspiring player Deighton Evenhus through their time in youth baseball, reflects the bonds that are often built on the field.

The Community’s Backbone

What makes the campaign so vibrant is the overwhelming support from the community. Many parents, youth coaches, and sports enthusiasts have stepped forward, expressing their willingness to assist in fundraising efforts. The fundraising will be primarily coordinated through the Great Falls Public Schools Foundation website, giving community members an easy way to contribute. With close to 1,000 youth athletes participating in baseball-related activities in Great Falls, the interest in starting a high school program is palpable.

Financial Hurdles Ahead

While the passion and excitement are evident, the main challenge remains the funding necessary to kick-start the program. Estimated startup costs hover between $40,000 and $50,000 for essentials like uniforms and equipment, while annual operational costs are likely to mirror that. To put things in perspective, the overall budget for extracurricular activities within the Great Falls Public Schools system is currently only 2.15% of the total budget, translating to approximately $1.6 million, which mainly covers coaching salaries and travel.

Looking Ahead to 2026

If the advocates meet their fundraising goal, baseball could become a reality by March 2026. Interestingly, other cities in Montana, like Billings and Missoula, have successfully launched their own high school programs after dedicating a year to fundraising. This gives hope to the Great Falls initiative, despite the financial hurdles that have been a concern in recent years. Budget cuts totaling $10.4 million from 2008 to 2021 have put a strain on the system, leading to a projected shortfall of $2.66 million by the end of the year.

Addressing Concerns and Future Endeavors

Now, the conversation isn’t just about funding. Athlete health is becoming a hot topic, especially regarding the differences in pitch count rules between high school and American Legion regulation. This detail raises concerns among parents and coaches alike, emphasizing the need for thorough health and safety protocols in any new program. Plus, there are ongoing discussions about issues surrounding Title IX and equity as they pertain to private funding for the baseball initiative.

A Step in the Right Direction

The athletic director has already presented an informative report on the addition of this program to the Great Falls Public Schools Board of Trustees. The cabinet has even suggested considering the baseball proposal for the 2025-26 fiscal budget year. With more than 500 signatures gathered on a petition in support of this initiative, it’s clear the community stands behind the cause to bring high school baseball to Great Falls.

This grassroots effort demonstrates that with collaboration and community spirit, dreams can indeed come true. The journey is just beginning, and who knows? Soon we might hear the crack of a bat and the cheers of fans in the stands right here in Great Falls.

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