Local baseball league receives donation from Academy Sports and Lane College

JACKSON, TN (WNBJ) - Academy Sports and Outdoors is partnering with Lane College to donate a 1,000 dollars’ worth of gift cards and equipment to Gilliam League Baseball and T-ball.

The donation will benefit the baseball, coach pitch, and t-ball leagues. It will provide new gear to continue Jackson's Parks and Recreation mission of providing quality, wholesome leisure that benefits the mind and body.

The recreation specialist with the Gilliam League expressing his gratitude for receiving the donation and the store director explains why it is so important to give back to the community.

“We were very surprised and happy that we got the donation because as you know the pandemic has really put a damper on life and right now, we just want to get the kids back active. By Academy Sports blessing us with this, this was like a God-sent,” said Hilliard Baker, the Recreation Specialist at the T.R. White Sportsplex.

“So, to be able to give a little bit back and make sure the kids get the equipment they need to get outside and play, it’s heartwarming. It’s awesome,” said Steve Johnson, the Store Director at Academy Sports and Outdoors.

Academy Sports say these types of initiatives were created to activate and amplify grassroots efforts, such as youth outreach and mentoring programs.