Ravenna – On Tuesday, November 5th the Ravenna Softball Organization hosted an ice cream sundae buffet social. While many were out voting, contemplating the levies and the issues in their districts, some very lucky girls and parents were learning about the upcoming softball season and how they can be involved as players or supporters.
The event was hosted by a new business, Girls Outside the Box at 554 N. Chestnut, Ravenna. Owner Cheryl Hayes Moved her business from Uptown Main Street to this new location. She focuses on empowering young ladies through creation and trying new activities that can inspire them to “think outside the box.” Her new building allows for expanded space for activities such as yoga, ornament gift making, and ice cream sundae events.
Hayes commented that the organization needs the space for their event and she was happy to help out. She was glad to assist because the girls softball mission coincides with the message that she represent through her business.
Josh Smallwood, President of the Girls Softball Organization, said the ice cream social also served as a registration event for the upcoming 2020 season. Those in attendance were able to get advice from seasoned softball folks who have been involved for years. They viewed a slideshow of pictures to experience what they may get to be involved in as players and the new friendships that can be formed.
The primary goal of the sundae buffet was to test the waters with a new idea. The hope was to attract the attention of girls looking to try a sport or activity (such as softball) where they can get new perspectives and build confidence.
Heather Dailey, Secretary for the softball League, said the event helps them to get an idea of numbers and leagues for the spring. In 2018 they had 8 teams with over 100 girls, ranging from ages 4 to 18 years old. “We want to grow the organization and expand our family.”
Her daughter, Alivia Dailey, age 9, and in the fourth grade, said her ice cream inspiration was vanilla with sprinkles and batting is her favorite part of the sport. Alivia is delighted when she hits a home run. “It’s fun and you get to make new friends,” she said with a grin.
Heather said she’s proud of the organization and what it’s become. She fondly reminisced that for several years now her daughter has been on a team where the girls jokingly call themselves “Bratz with Batz.” Alivia looked over at her mother and they both giggled at the name, obviously showing that the girls on these teams have a fun time.
Jeremy Taugner of Sudzzz Carwash was also in attendance, representing the support his business has for area youth sports. Sudzzz has partnered with the softball organization for their 2020 season. Now through November, equipment — new or used bats, gloves, cleats, facemask and batting gloves — can be donated to the league’s Free Equipment Closet at 444 W. Main St., Ravenna.
His daughter, Michaela, age 8, plays first base and short stop positions. “Catching, batting and being out on the field,” are her favorite parts of the game. She explained that girls use metal bats and they are stronger than the wooden bats boys use.
Aside from the camaraderie and team building, girls get to experience a sense of self as Michaela very confidently stated about girls being just as good as boys.
Smallwood stated one of the biggest tasks he addresses as a coach is keeping the girls engaged and instilling in them the values of positive sportsmanship. Nineteen girls got registered to play that night and they are hoping for even more at the next event.
November 14th for 6-7:30pm at will be the second ice cream sundae and registration event at Girls Outside the Box. For information you can contact President Smallwood at 330-958-4588 or email at ravennagirllssoftball@gmail.com.
