Batter Up!

Spring is the season for America’s favorite pastime. And nothing is more fun than watching kids enjoy the grand old game while learning lessons about sportsmanship, character and life.

The Dormont Athletic Boosters Association (DABA) is a nonprofit formed in 1949. Several local residents had seen the value in kids learning to succeed in life through the lessons of sports competition. Approximately 500 children now participate in DABA sports each year, along with community events.

Many lifelong friendships begin as teammates. DABA President Kevin Honsberger says, “It helps kids because they get to know each other on the field. And then when they go to school, they already know many of their classmates from baseball.”

Honsberger also believes in the value of competitive sports. “It teaches kids to work as a team for a common goal, and not to give up when things get tough. They learn to push through it together. It builds character.”

Dormont offers T-ball for ages 5 and 6, where kids learn the basics of hitting, with the ball being placed on a platform rather than pitched. The other teams are also divided by age group: 7- and 8-year-olds, 9 and 10, 11 and 12, 13 and 14, and 15-17. This helps to ensure that kids will be playing with others similar in size and skill level.

Registration is already underway for the 2025 season. It will continue into February until the team rosters are filled. It’s advisable to sign up sooner rather than later, since teams often fill up quickly. Honsberger adds that DABA works with nearby teams in Scott Township, Bridgeville, Collier Township, Green Tree and Castle Shannon to find a team for kids to participate if rosters are already full.

DABA is an all-volunteer organization. Members of the community willing to help—and sponsors—are essential for the league to continue. Coaches are always needed, particularly assistant coaches to help with duties both on and off the field. The concession stands are operated entirely by volunteers as well. Tournaments occur about four to five times per year and require lots of volunteers for administrative roles as well as active, including announcers, scorekeepers, field workers and more. DABA also accepts donations of good used equipment.

The organization sponsors a raffle each year, with a July 4 drawing to win up to $5,000. The teams also hold hoagie fundraisers. If you can contribute by purchasing a ticket or hoagie, it will help ensure that kids are not only playing sports but building character.

Lastly, if you own a company or local business, DABA offers banner sponsorships along the outfield fence. You can make the community aware of your support for local youth sports by purchasing a banner.

DABA has tennis and softball teams for children as well. To learn more, visit dormontboosters.com, or follow on Facebook at facebook.com/DormontAthleticBoostersAssociation.