BY WENDI REARDON
Clarkston News Sports Writer
Jack Kuczmanski, 2016 graduate of Clarkston High School, tossed the baseballs to young players on the Wolves junior varsity field, June 29.
Kuczmanski, as well as other Clarkston Varsity Baseball players and Head Coach Phil Price, were on hand coaching players ages 7-14 at the Boys Baseball Clinic from June 27-30.
“It’s awesome,” Kuczmanski said about coaching the kids. “I used to come here from when I was seven to 14. It was just so fun. I remember it. It’s weird being on the other side, but I love it. It’s cool to give back. It’s an emotional experience.”
During the four day clinic players were divided into groups and rotated between different stations as they worked on the fundamentals of the game including throwing, catching, fielding and base running.
Kuczmanski enjoyed helping the boys with their hitting.
“They all like to hit especially at a young age,” he said. “I like to teach them hitting – that’s fun. They like to hit it far.”
The players also competed in games at each station with the prize being baseball cards and many commented they needed particular players to finish their dream team.
He added two-ball is always fun and a favorite on the varsity field. During Wednesday’s session the boys cheered as Kuczmanski was the last player standing after the final round.
Through the days he noticed the progress each player made.
“Every day they work harder,” Kuczmanski added. “They seem to like it more. Even the little ones are focused and want to learn more. They are having a lot of fun. I have heard a lot of boys say this is the best week of the year. They just like it and are having a good time.”
The boys were reminded to keep playing after the clinic was finished – to continue swinging, throwing, and catching.
“Just keep practicing every day,” Kuczmanski added. “You never know what you can do.”
The clinic is offered through Clarkston Community Education. For more information or to find other camps, please visit www.itpr.org or call 248-623-4326.

  Baseball Clinic, Summer Camps