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The International Softball Congress has just announced a new concept in the development of new boys fastball teams in the U.S. The ISC is proud to be actively involved in the creation of new local boys 18 and under teams. The program is being implemented with the support of several national sporting goods manufacturers and was developed in a series of meetings between Al Ruegsegger (Southern California Commissioner) and the sporting goods companies. The plan will work this way:
The ISC will accept applications from "new" boys 18 and under team managers. Based on the number of sponsors involved, each team will receive approximately $2,000 retail value of necessary equipment and uniforms. Each team must agree that the team will enter the 1999 ISC 18 and Under North American Championship Tournament next July. Tournament location and dates to be announced. Some other conditions include agreement that the grant is a "start up" grant only. The team will be expected to make maximum effort to continue the team after the first year through community support and sponsorship.
Other conditions include an accounting of money spent during the season as there will be some cash to the teams for entry fees and related expenses. Team must understand that the equipment and money grant will not cover 100% of the team's operating budget. However, it will significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses during its initial year.
The teams formed under this program are free to secure other local sponsorships. However, the team name will be generic and decided upon by the ISC Youth Committee. The teams are free to enter any leagues and tournaments they desire.
Teams, coaches, and interested parents may apply for one of these grants by contacting ISC Youth Director, Wayne Fisher via e-mail at fisher@act.org, by phone at (319) 351-2429, or via U.S. mail to 90 Amhurst Street, Iowa City, IA 52245.
The strategy behind this program is to assist new teams I the expensive first year of operation. Then, assuming the first year's experience of playing fastball, going to North American Championships, playing against adult players, and all of the other great things about the sport will provide the momentum for local support in the second and subsequent years.
From a sponsor standpoint, they are looking at the team development program as a way of guaranteeing a future for the sport we all love and to generate a customer base because the players will continue after the first year.
The ISC is extremely pleased and proud to be able to offer this unique opportunity to boys 18 and under teams.
Now, get out there and develop a couple of pitchers and contact Wayne about applying for the grant.
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