Long ball contest breaks fundraising record

By Donnie A. Lucas

A record amount of donations was raised by Albany High School baseball parents on Monday during the annual “Long Ball” fundraiser to benefit the program.

The event brought in $17,200 for the baseball program, almost double the previous record and over three times the average $5,000.

“That was by far the best fundraiser we have ever had,” said baseball coach David Fairchild. “I never expected they would raise that much, so now we are figuring out to use the money.”

The coach said that typically the donations are used to supplement equipment and uniform purchases, but he said that something more substantial will probably be purchased this year.

The event was organized by parents of the players, with Tara Chapman and Misti Webb serving as the main organizers.

“Despite the rain, the fundraiser turned out well,” Chapman said. “The community was very generous this year.”

The players rounded up pledges or donations for the “Long Ball” contest, getting to use each batter’s best hit off five pitches.

Ben West, who was a senior last year, had the longest hit with 332 feet, followed by Jackson Chapman, 315 feet, and Cade Neve, 300 feet.

Junior William Webb raised the most money through pledges and donations.

“Even though it was cut short due to the lightning and rain, Albany really came out in a big way to support the kids,” Misti Webb said. “It was very successful.”

The parents sold out of hamburger meal deal, with all the proceeds added into the total.

Parents had to host the event this year since the season was cut short in March due to the coronavirus pandemic. The season was suspended with the Lions holding a 7-0 record and just about to start district action.

Albany was hoping to make a back-to-back return to the state tournament.

The fundraiser was not an official school event because of UIL restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 virus, and local coaches could observe but not participate.