There’s a reason that Bridgeport High School’s baseball field continues to see upgrades and improvements. Along with community members and boosters continually stepping up to meet needs both big and small, annual fundraisers have also been doing the trick.

 

Once again, one of the biggest fundraisers is about to take place. BHS Baseball Coach Robert Shields announced that the Third Annual Bridgeport High School Baseball Golf Tournament has been scheduled.

 

The event is set for Sept. 17 at Bel Meadow Country Club. The event begins with a breakfast at 8 a.m. and golfing will start at roughly 9 a.m.

 

While the purpose is to have a good time and raise funds at the same time, it’s the end result of those funds that have been critical. Shields said that they’re hoping to raise enough money during the event to get close to completing the high school’s fields sprinkler system.

 

“We need to more zones covered and we think if this is a successful golf tournament that it will get us there,” said Shields. “This tournament has already helped with the system and we already have the infield, the sides of the field and about half of the outfield with a proper sprinkler system. We now want to finish that off.”

 

To get that done, Shields estimates that it will take between $5,000 and $6,000. He said the cost will go up if issues arise during the eventual installation.

 

“The good news is that the process to add on is easier because everything else is hooked up. The necessary infrastructure with the water coming to the field. It’s just a matter of extending it,” Shields said. “We couldn’t do things like this without help from people that are always there to assist the program and the participants of the golf tournament. I can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am to those individuals.”

 

Apparently, something is working. The Indians have won three straight Class AA state championships so Shields hopes those involved can see their assistance to the program is paying off in more ways than just a quality facility.

 

For those wanting to take part, this year’s roughly 9 a.m. tee time will begin with a shotgun start in a four-man scramble format.

 

The cost to participate is $60 per player or $240 per team. There will be prizes for longest drive and closest to the pin, mulligans can be purchase and there will be a 50-50 drawing. As part of the cost, a breakfast will be served beginning at 8 a.m. and can be done during the registration period.

 

Hole sponsorships are also available at a cost of $100. Also, a $300 corporate sponsorship package is available that includes a hole sponsorship and a hole sponsor recognition.

 

Individuals looking to register can do so by contacting Shields at 304-677-6313 or former players Ricky Johnson and Robert Marra. Johnson can be reached at 304-669-0685, while Marra can be reached at 304-669-1979.

 

“We hope to get 15 teams or more this year and it’s open to everyone, not just those from Bridgeport or who played for the program under me or past coaches,” said Shields. “At the same time, we really hope to see a lot of alumni take part because it just adds to what’s become a fun day for a worthwhile cause.”

 

Editor's Note: Top photo shows Coach Robert Shields with Paul Smith as work was done on the sprinkler and irrigation system in April of this past year, while contractors are shown working in the bottom photo.