Students at Fritsch Elementary School were swinging for success with their participation in the San Francisco Giants Junior Giants initiative. The free, non-competitive and innovative baseball program for boys and girls ages 5-13, focuses on education, health and bullying prevention, providing a holistic approach to community sports. Fritsch Elementary was the only school in the state of Nevada to participate in the program.
The program not only promotes physical activity but also fosters teamwork, leadership and sportsmanship among young participants. Additionally, the initiative granted the school a curriculum (social and emotional learning SEL based), equipment and a bat and ball for every single student at Fritsch.
“Getting a personal bat and ball from the San Francisco Giants adds an extra touch of excitement and connection to the sport and for our students,” said Bethany Henry-Herman, physical education teacher at Fritsch Elementary. “It's wonderful to see organizations like the Junior Giants Foundation investing in the next generation of athletes and community leaders, within our students here at Fritsch Elementary School.”
The generosity of the San Francisco Giants in gifting every single student at Fritsch Elementary their own bat and ball is remarkable, especially considering the diverse socioeconomic backgrounds of the students, she continued.
“Providing each student with a personal bat and ball not only removes financial barriers but also ensures that every child has the opportunity to practice and play the sport, regardless of their circumstances,” Henry-Herman said. “Moreover, the fact that the Junior Giants summer camps are free, further underscores the organization's commitment to accessibility and inclusion. It's heartwarming to see such meaningful support for the students of Fritsch Elementary, empowering them to pursue their passion for baseball and softball.”
At the conclusion of the Junior Giants initiative, Fritsch Elementary students dressed in orange or SF Giants gear for an assembly where they reviewed what they had learned over the course of the program. To show appreciation and thanks, they also made a banner to share as part of a photo. After the assembly, and much to their surprise, all the students were awarded a free bat and ball.