By Terra Avilla
Lassen County is a special place, and one of the reasons it shines is because of the incredible volunteer softball and baseball coaches who dedicate their time and energy to our youth.
These unsung heroes are the heart and soul of our leagues, making every season not only possible but memorable.
Each coach brings their unique style to the field.
My girls have been incredibly blessed by the coaches they have had, and I want to give credit where credit is due.
In our baseball and softball coaches we have some very seasoned athletes passing down their love for the game, while others are parents stepping up for the first time to support their kids and community.
Regardless of their background, they all share one thing: a commitment to making youth sports a positive experience for every child. Speaking as someone who has previously volunteered to coach, I can tell you that it is a HUGE undertaking.
Lassen County’s opening day for softball and baseball is nothing short of elite. While the league boards are instrumental in organizing these events, it’s the volunteer coaches who breathe life into them.
From coordinating practice schedules to ensuring every child gets playing time, these coaches handle countless behind-the-scenes tasks that often go unnoticed. They’re not just teaching kids how to play – they’re teaching them how to win but also how to lose with dignity, and to enjoy the journey regardless of the outcome.
Head out to any softball or baseball field in Lassen County, and you’ll see it firsthand. Coaches guiding players through drills with patience, cheering them on with encouragement, and teaching them not just how to play but how to grow.
Their commitment is evident in every practice, every game and every high-five they give to a young athlete who has just learned something new.
And then there are the six-and0under coaches. ANYONE who coaches a child under six deserves some sort of reward! These are the ones who take on the challenge of introducing our youngest players to the game.
These coaches bring unmatched energy and creativity to keep practices playful and engaging. They understand that at this age it’s not just about learning skills, but about falling in love with the sport.
Watching these little ones run bases (sometimes in the wrong direction!) or celebrating their first hit, is pure joy – and it wouldn’t happen without these dedicated volunteers.
The fields themselves are a testament to this commitment. On any given evening, you’ll find coaches setting up equipment, running drills, or chatting with parents about how their kids are progressing.
It’s not just about coaching – it’s about investing in our kids’ futures. These volunteers teach resilience when things don’t go as planned, humility in victory and grace in defeat. They model what it means to be part of a team and part of a community.
Lassen County is lucky to have such remarkable individuals leading our youth sports programs.
Whether they’re seasoned veterans like Karma and Jolene or first-time coaches for the littlest players, they all share a common thread: an unwavering dedication to our kids.
So the next time you are at the fields take a moment to thank these incredible role models – they are shaping not only great athletes, but great people, and are why I love where we live.
