MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Baseball teams and families met at IronWorks Gym here to enjoy one last celebration and the closing ceremony of the successful youth baseball season here June 10, 2012.
The 5 to 6-year-old Marlins were one of the many Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni youth baseball teams. The 5-6 age group played tee-ball, where strikes didn’t count but there were still outs and all the bases to run. The kids practiced and played against each other during the past four months.
Lance Cpl. Jean R. Lavaud said that during work he is an Individual Material Readiness List (IMRS) Asset Manager with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, but after work he loved spending his time as a coach for the Marlins.
“I had a great time teaching these kids and I am looking forward to trying to coach next season,” said Lavaud. All of the coaches volunteered their time for the kids and their love of the great American pastime.
“We might not have been the number one team, but it’s about bonding with the kids
and letting them have fun, run around and play a great sport,” said Lavaud.
Although the Marlins didn’t win their series, they still managed to have a great time, learn a lot, and stay in shape.
“With the kids being so enthusiastic about playing baseball, it made the job a little bit stressful at times. But it really helped because all the kids were so excited to learn and run the bases,” said Lavaud.
During the beginning of summer, children spent time playing baseball with their peers.
At times, the Marlins were able to let the kids run around to help them train and burn off a little energy, which all parents loved, said Lavaud.
Throughout the season, the Marlins played many games with their competition but always seemed to enjoy the game no matter what happened on the scoreboard.
“My favorite part was running around the bases but I really liked being in outfield too,” said Bailey Powell, a 5-year-old baseball star with the Marlins.
Along with the benefits of physical activity, baseball games gave kids a chance to create long lasting friendships.
“I learned a lot and had tons of fun playing with friends,” said Powell.