To show our appreciation for the hard work our coaches put in throughout the year, the IAB held a Coach Appreciation Day on Friday, June 29 at the Baptist Village. Over 25 coaches from around the country participated. "Our coaches are the heart and soul of our organization and work so hard every week of the year to get the players ready for game season, and support their teams throughout the year," says Director of Baseball Operations Justin Peedin. "This was a very small gesture of thank you to them for everything they do." 

The event started with the coaches being divided into two teams representing the Sharon and the rest of Israel. They took to the field for a very friendly game of softball for baseball coaches. Home runs were abundant, with our Director of Baseball Operations crushing one over the fence. Coaches Yonatan Schechter from Ra'anana and Ori Wachspress from Modiin also added to the balls sent out of the park.

Our coaches tried their best to pitch underarm, and threw some strikes as well. Knee braces, ice packs and a lot of puffing and panting were the order of the day. Both teams scored "a lot of runs" and the final score remained a mystery. The coaches all had a great time taking the field for a change instead of calling plays from the side lines.

The very friendly game was followed by a high quality barbecue, expertly prepared and grilled by Sharon Regional Director Mel Levi and sous Chef Justin. The day was a great success and registration for the 2019 even is already open!

For more pictures from the event, click here.