September 20, 2024

Middle school baseball and softball coming to Creston

Panthers looking to participate in either sport will have a chance to do so now at a younger age

By JARED LARSON

Veteran Gary O'Daniels throws out one of the "first pitches" at the VFW field rededication ceremony and Little League opening night. Behind him, from left, are veterans Denny Abel, Don Miller, Joel Emerson, Bob Minson, Tom Hawks and Craig Dresback. (CNA photo)

CRESTON – Lineup takes a new definition at Creston Middle School.

The Creston Community School District’s board unanimously approved the motion to add middle school baseball and softball programs during the Nov. 15 meeting. Board member Amanda Mohr motioned and Don Gee seconded the motion.

Per the agenda of the meeting, the estimated financial impact of having these programs will be $10,000 to the general fund.

Coaches are to be determined and schedules are still a work in progress but 12 teams are scheduled with dates as of now.

Assistant Principal/Activities Director Scott Driskell expects both sports to play at already existing facilities in Creston.

“Our plan is to play middle school baseball at McKinley ball field,” Driskell said. “Through the Creston CWC group, which is a very generous organization working to better the community, they’re donating $5,000 to rebuild the mound and home play down at McKinley Park.”

As for the softball teams, they’ll play alongside Highway 34.

“The VFW field across from Casa is in great shape,” Driskell said. “Our city has done a tremendous job with it, it is a beautiful field and that’s where we’re planning on playing our middle school softball games. We’re excited about both locations.”

In addition to having a high school level of both baseball and softball, Driskell is excited about having common baseball and softball culture.

“I think we’re excited to get it going because instead of being a 9-12 program we’re going to be a seventh-12th grade program,” Driskell said. “That gets our coaches involved and hopefully gets a common philosophy in teaching. I’m hoping it’ll improve our numbers in high shcool and skill development in our kids in a younger age.”