Warwick's ball fields undergoing renovations

WARWICK - The boys’ and girls’ varsity infields at Warwick Valley High School are getting a face lift. Thanks to the High School grounds crew and the many area resident volunteers who have spent countless hours working on the fields, the Warwick Baseball/Softball Club is making giant strides along with the support of the Warwick Little League to improve field conditions with their latest renovation project. The community-wide project is expected to be complete by the end of fall 2006. The Warwick Little League recently donated $3,500 to help offset costs. “We greatly appreciate the generous donation made by the Warwick Little League,” said club president Matt Victor. “We also thank everyone involved for their volunteerism and expertise to get the job done, as well as providing us with the necessary equipment and machinery. The renovations are being completed as a result of the WBSC, community and school officials working together.” Warwick Little League President Tom Ballard said these improvements will benefit to the entire community. “In addition to the school teams, these fields are also frequently used by the Warwick Little League and travel teams,” Ballard said. “We will continue to be a community organization for boys and girls to play baseball and softball throughout the town.” Renovations include the installation of a new infield grass surface on the boys’ field. Topsoil was brought in to level off the ground and to plant new grass. The pitcher’s mound will be rebuilt; about 100 tons of new clay was added to the skinned surfaced areas of the infield. Coach’s boxes for first and third bases also were installed. The girls’ field was prepped with crushed stone for drainage and to level the surface. About 125 tons of new clay also was added to produce a new, skinned infield. “We couldn’t have done it without the support of their monetary donations, materials, supplies and equipment,” said John Russo, Warwick’s athletic director. “They have done a tremendous job on the fields. The Warwick Baseball/Softball Club was formed in 2004 by a group of parent volunteers who set out to support youth baseball and softball programs throughout the Warwick community. The club recently raised more than $8,500 at its second annual golf outing, sponsored in part by Frozen Ropes Sports, at Mansion Ridge Country Club. Last year the club was able to add to its list of accomplishments a new fence system and equipment box on the boys’ field. The club also sponsors a variety of events for youth throughout the year, including the upcoming Moonlight Bowling fund raiser, as well as baseball and softball clinics and camps. The WBSC also awards an annual student/athletic scholarship to a graduating senior. For information, or to volunteer, call 469-9081. ___________________________________________ Tryouts Dec. 2 for NY Bulls Warwick - The New York Bulls, Warwick’s 14U travel baseball team, is holding open tryouts for its spring/summer season on Saturday, Dec. 2, at 7:30 p.m. at Frozen Ropes in Chester. Players must have birth dates after April 30, 1992 to be eligible. Contact Paul Ercolino at 845-875-6303 to register.