Dealership to help Davidson MS baseball program

CRESTVIEW — Allen Turner Chevrolet has joined forces with the national Chevrolet Youth Baseball program to partner with a local athletic program.

Allen Turner will provide Davidson Middle School’s baseball team with new equipment and invitations to free instructional clinics. Community members will also be able to earn donations for the team by taking test drives of vehicles.

“Playing the game of baseball helps kids develop skills like leadership, cooperation, and sportsmanship while bringing families and communities together to show their support.” said Matt Farley, General Manager for Allen Turner Chevrolet. “Allen Turner Chevrolet and Chevrolet Youth Baseball are proud to participate in a sport that brings so many smiles to kids and families in Crestview.”

Jenna Eakin, marketing assistant for Allen Turner Chevrolet, said Davidson was chosen because the organization wanted to keep things local. Eakin said the dealership has donated to other local teams in the past.

“I was familiar with the organization and when they approached me, I was very grateful,” said Daniel Richards, Davidson’s baseball coach. “I was very appreciative for the opportunity to partner with them.

“I think it is important for businesses to support our programs,” he added.

Allen Turner Chevrolet will present Davidson Middle School with an equipment kit that includes items such as equipment bags, first-aid kits, batting tees and T-shirts. The sponsorship also includes youth clinics featuring current and former major and minor league baseball players and coaches, or instructors from Ripken Baseball.

In addition, Allen Turner Chevrolet will present a check representing a one-time monetary contribution to Davidson Middle School. The school will have the chance to earn additional funds as community members take test drives at their partnering dealership to help support the league.

The presentation will occur during Davidson’s game Thursday.

Richards said the money that the program is receiving will help with the cost of needed items, such as uniforms for the team.

“Chevrolet believes in the power of play as a way for young people to build the skills needed to be successful in the future and supports the spirit of teamwork that baseball instills in its players,” said Farley.

This marks the 14th year of Chevrolet’s Youth Baseball program and has benefited over 7 million players since it launched. In 2018, more than 1,100 Chevrolet dealers participated across the country.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Dealership to help Davidson MS baseball program