Nearly 100 youths age 12 and under participated in a youth baseball clinic at Point Stadium on Sunday as part of an event organized by the city of Johnstown, Johnstown Oldtimers and The Tribune-Democrat.
The clinic, which featured instruction by former professional and college players, most with AAABA Tournament ties, also was highlighted by an appearance by former Pittsburgh Pirates Gold Glove catcher Mike LaValliere.
LaValliere spoke at the AAABA Hall of Fame banquet on Saturday night. When he learned of the youth clinic, the catcher better known as “Spanky” decided to stay in Johnstown another day to lend a helping hand as well as a major league perspective.
A celebrity softball game helped raise $1,100 for The Tribune-Democrat Santa Fund, which annually provides gifts to children of local families who need a helping hand.
A sports memorabilia show also was held in conjunction with the event.
The link to The Tribune-Democrat article on the clinic follows: