'Blast-off' into summer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Deana Heitzman
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  To kick off the summer sports season, the Aviano Youth Program hosted a "Baseball Blast-Off" event, April 19, 2014, at Aviano Air Base, Italy.

The event featured the introduction of the summer baseball teams, a specialty game against the Chiefs and Eagles, and children activities.

"The event was a kick off to baseball and softball season inviting children and their families to come out and have a great time," said Trashanda Gess, 31st Force Support Squadron AYP sports coordinator. "Baseball is America's favorite past time, and what better way for parents to show their children their support during a game."

The AYP offers many sporting opportunities for children and teenagers between the ages of 3-18 years old. The program offers instructional programs for the younger children and older children have the opportunity to travel and compete. This summer, the AYP offers baseball, girls' softball and flag football.

"I love giving back to the children, that is why I coach," said Corey Brown, 31st FSS AYP baseball coach. "We teach them the fundamentals of softball but also we are mentors to the children. We have a lot of children at Aviano and they need someone else to give them a positive influence around the base."

The event also featured the annual Chiefs and Eagles traditional game where chiefs and commanders compete for bragging rights.

"The youth summer sports program provides our Children with a healthy outlet to learn teamwork, stay fit and have a great time," said Chief Master Sgt. David VanVlack, 31st Maintenance Squadron superintendent. "This year the Eagles and the Chiefs held their annual softball game challenge at the AYP opening day. With a bit of friendly competition and camaraderie we squared off for seven innings of fun.

"The game remained close with each side gaining the lead or tying up each inning. It all came down to the bottom of the 6th inning where the Chief's rallied from a tie score to up by eight." Added VanVlack. "While the Eagles made a valiant try in the top of the 7th inning, the Chiefs closed out the inning and won the game 20-14."

Gess encourages children and family to come out and enjoy games the APY offers.

"We have games every Saturday and I invite all the parents and their children to come out and have fun," said Gess.

For more information, visit the AYP sports page here or call 632-7575.