Tonight, Larry Dierker and I will be taking 38 kids, parents and coaches from Dierker's Champs to the Astros' game.  Many were on our first team of eight year olds from Francone Elementary School, a school which The Foundry Church has adopted.  During the game tonight, Larry and I will be interviewed on Fox Sports Houston.  I'd encourage you to tune in to see the game and to spread the word about Dierker's Champs.
 
The first season of Dierker's Champs baseball was a huge success.  As part of Cy-Hope's vision to "make life better for kids in Cy-Fair", Dierker's Champs strives to provide excellent baseball instruction in a positive, family-friendly environment.  Our victories are judged not just by wins and losses on the field, but by how we are making a difference in the lives of young people across Cy-Fair.  Below are a few of the highlights:
We entered 13 teams and 6 partner teams in the CFSA Baseball League.  CFSA is one of the largest youth baseball organizations in the nation, and in our first year Dierker's Champs had more teams than any other organization.
There were over 150 kids, ages 3-13, playing baseball on our teams this spring.  Eighteen of these had the opportunity to play because of Foundry scholarships.
Our teams competed in a total of 179 games, with a combined record of 86-84-9.  We won two league championships and one tournament title.
Our preseason camp in February, which was open to the community, was a huge hit with 150 players in attendance.
During tournament action, our teams came together for Sunday morning devotional/worship times at the ballpark, remembering that what we are doing is so much more than a game.
Our first celebration and awards night was a great night of fun as we unveiled our new full-size mascot, "Champ the Dog" who will be rooting on the Champs at a ballpark near you next season!
All of this would not have been possible without the work of our committee members, coaches, team moms, parents, devotional leaders, corporate and family supporters and many more.  They are too numerous to list, but they are the strength of the DC organization and I am thankful for their service!
 
We are already making plans for a fall baseball clinic and the Cy-Fair Sports Association fall baseball season.  If you or someone you know would like more information about becoming a part of Dierker's Champs baseball please visit www.dierkerschamps.com or email me.

Ray Hughes