CULLMAN, Ala. – Before Cullman High School’s varsity baseball team clinched its 10th straight area title Thursday night, the school welcomed the next generation of young Bearcats to the field as part of kids night. Dozens of young players — decked out in their own travel and recreational league baseball uniforms — came out to watch the game, and even had the opportunity to step on the turf with the varsity Bearcats for the National Anthem pre-game.
“Having our younger players out at our games is such a blessing and great opportunity for our school and our athletic programs,” Cullman High School athletic director Mark Stephens said. “For our players, it really puts things into perspective when they see how those little guys look up to them for how they act and how they play the game. For our coaches and administrators, we understand the importance of fostering relationships with our future student athletes. These kids are the foundation of our program.”
Stephens noted that kids night 2021 is hopefully just the beginning, as the athletic program hopes to continue growing these youth outreach initiatives with more camps, crossover events and instructional opportunities for younger athletes.
“We appreciate Cullman Park and Recreation and our other area baseball organizations for participating last night,” he added. “It’s great to be a Bearcat.”
The varsity baseball team clinched the Class 6A, Area 14 title with a 2-0 win against Hartselle High School and finished out the night’s sweep with a 10-0 win in the second game of the double header. The school band, cheerleaders, students and community members helped bring the game day atmosphere to life with a bonfire and concert outside the stadium — with ample space provided for social distancing, of course.
“It was such a great turnout and atmosphere,” Cullman High School Principal Kim Hall said. “The real goal for us has been to try out best to make sure the students don’t realize things have been ‘different’ this year due to the pandemic. For them, it’s just a fun night cheering on the Bearcats. I think we’ve done that.”
