Here in Clearfield, PA, the batting cages were used for many different purposes by kids of all ages and levels. Clearfield High School baseball and softball used these cages, but after July 18^th, everything went wrong.

The former police department and indoor sports facility collapsed due to the poor condition of the building. Many say this building was unsafe prior to this event, but no changes were made. Sid Lansberry was the main driving force behind the batting cages and kept them alive for 12 years. Mr. Lansberry, the head baseball coach here at Clearfield, expressed his thoughts about the collapse of the building. He talked about what all was lost in the rubble: “We had the place for 12 years, so there was lots of valuable equipment stored in there. We lost the Astro-turf flooring, three L-screens, training equipment, and two pitching mounds.” This was a very detrimental loss as almost nothing was able to be saved.

This winter the baseball team will need somewhere to practice and have workouts, and Mr. Lansberry has some ideas. He states, “We have a couple of options; renting different facilities and using other batting cages is our goal for this winter. Hopefully, we can maintain our schedule.” It is important to find a place for the coach and his players because practicing is crucial for the team’s success.

When asked if this terrible loss will affect the season, he states, “That remains to be seen, but as long as we can still practice and stay on schedule it will not affect this year’s season.” Coach Lansberry has high hopes and is confident in his ability to find an indoor facility, but it is vital to find a place for practices and workouts for the future of Clearfield baseball and softball.