With a new school year upon us, another season of baseball draws to a close.

The Farmingdale PAL Summer Baseball Program, which started this past season with registration in May for boys and girls in grades pre-kindergarten through high school, is following suit. As in previous years, the program saw an increase in youth participation. This was the thirteenth season since Farmingdale PAL moved its baseball program to the summer in order to provide an extended program for youth of the local community.

The pre-k and kindergarten-first grade divisions started their program indoors in June. All other divisions - rookie (pitching machine), intermediate baseball and girls softball followed in July and continued until the last week of August.

A major goal of the program is to encourage learning and participation among players. One of this year's coaches offered his team and parents a letter at the beginning of the season that simply expressed this. It stated the following: "A note from the kids...We're here to have fun, we're here to learn some basic skills, we're here to learn sportsmanship, and teamwork...We're not here to win, win, win. Most importantly, we're here to have fun."

Officer Frank McDonald and the Farmingdale Unit have noted that they would like to thank the volunteer directors, coaches and players for their commitment throughout the season.

The Farmingdale PAL Unit sponsors eight other programs throughout the year. Those who would like more information may call the PAL Clubhouse at 249-6825 and speak to Officer Frank McDonald.