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Five area softball players will team up to host a summer softball camp for ages 7 to 15 at Johnson Park on Mondays and Tuesdays from June 12 to July 18 from 8 to 10 a.m.

The cost is $180 for all sessions or $20 per session.

“Fundamental skillsets will be discussed and implemented each week. Participants will learn drills, glove work, throwing, infield, outfield, batting, pitching, and base running. Developing skills early will allow each participant a foundation to build upon and provide knowledge for them to implement and practice year-round. Development in these areas is so important for younger players who want to grow and learn the game of softball,” Willie Furr said.

Elizabeth Cross, Maggie Furr, Mollie Furr, Leanna Johnson, and Erin Riley will serve as camp instructors.

“Leanna Johnson is a tremendous Division I player who completed an amazing journey at Troy University and earned Pitcher of the Week many times. She brings a unique perspective to the camp and has faced and conquered some of the toughest opponents in this sport.”

“Maggie Furr is a current player at Enterprise State Community College. She also pitches, plays left field, and has played high school and travel ball for many years.”

“Erin Riley is a slugger and current player for Southern Union State Community College. She is an incredible athlete at shortstop and outfield. She brings years of experience as a player and strong knowledge of the game.”

“Mollie Furr, a Birmingham Southern College commit, and Elizabeth Cross, a William Carey University commit, are both lefties and have tremendous speed on the base paths. They are also pitchers and bring an arsenal of skills and defensive power that is incredible. They will both begin their college careers this fall.”

According to Furr, giving back to a sport these young ladies enjoyed is an essential part of the process.

“Each of the girls coaching has many years of experience and has had some amazing coaches throughout their journey. Having a variety of players with years and years of experience led by many coaches has allowed them to gain tremendous knowledge of the game. Sharing this knowledge with younger players is key to the future of softball. All of our favorite high school and college players got their start in rec ball,” he said.

The primary goal of the camp is to gain interest and grow the game.

“Softball remains the fastest-growing sport in America. All girls who want to play should be given the opportunity. This sport is tough yet so rewarding. It is about belonging to something bigger than ourselves. Belonging, inclusion, diversity, and team are key components to a winning mindset.”

For more information email maggiefurr3@gmail.com.

“We hope that this will become an annual camp which serves those young girls in our community. There have been so many talented players from this area. Let’s continue the tradition,” Furr said.