Sonoma Stompers, SVHS Dragons players to help kids learn the game

The Sonoma Stompers and the Sonoma Valley High School baseball program will cooperate on two programs for Sonoma Little League next month, starting with the upcoming Don Lyons Sonoma Little League Skills Camp the weekend of Jan. 5.

Stompers players and front office members will join with high school coaches to lead Little League players through the fundamental skills camp. The camp is open to any player registered for the 2019 Spring Baseball Season can register, ages 6 to 12.

“Players will work directly with other players from the High School baseball program and the Stompers on fundamental skills in hitting, fielding, throwing and catching,” said Sonoma Little League president Mike Brown. He said the same instruction would be included both days, so there was no need for kids to attend both sessions unless they wanted to.

“I’m excited for our organization to give back and to have our players share their techniques, playing experiences, and dreams. This is a great way for the youth of Sonoma to play baseball and ‘pick the minds’ of our professional athletes,” said Brett Creamer, the Stompers general manager.

Former Stomper player and current assistant general manager Eddie Mora-Loera will also be conducting a coaches clinic at the end of the month for the Sonoma Little League. “I think this is good for all organizations involved, our goal is to have a stronger presence in the community and youth of Sonoma,” said Mora-Loera.

Cost is $20, and players will receive a pizza lunch and T-shirt. The camp will be held at Hughes Field, on First Street East in Sonoma, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. both days. Registration for the Don Lyons fundamental skills camp and Sonoma Little League can be found at www.sonomalittleleague.com.

The baseball camp is named in honor of the late Don Lyons, who coached for the Sonoma Valley High School varsity baseball team for many years following his own baseball career. He died in 2017 following a long battle with cancer.