Free summer Twins clinics kick off in May

What has become an annual summer tradition for many young athletes throughout Twins Territory continues this year as nearly 50 free baseball and softball clinics will be held through a partnership with Great River Energy.

The Twins Community Fund Youth Baseball & Softball Clinics have brought free youth clinics to communities across Minnesota and into North Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin for more than 60 years. A team of clinicians, volunteers and other Minnesota Twins representatives hit the road each summer to provide fundamental instruction for kids ages 6 to 12 in a fun, encouraging environment.

The clinics are structured to be accessible for kids of all abilities who want to play these sports, including those who have no playing experience. Kids only need to bring a glove, water bottle and interest in learning to their local event.

Of the nearly 50 clinics that will be held this summer, several of Great River Energy’s members will be hosting, or helping to host, an event in their communities, including:

• North Itasca Electric Cooperative: Friday, May 29, in Bigfork
• McLeod Cooperative Power Association: Saturday, June 20, in Arlington
• Itasca-Mantrap Electric Cooperative: Thursday, June 25, in Park Rapids
• Lake Region Electric Cooperative: Friday, June 26, in Frazee
• Dakota Electric Association: Sunday, June 28, in Farmington
• Brown County Rural Electrical Association: Friday, July 10, in Sleepy Eye
• Lake Country Power: Friday, July 10, in Cook

As a cooperative, Great River Energy works for the sustainable development of the communities it serves in tandem with its 26 member-owner cooperatives. Part of demonstrating this concern for community includes providing opportunities for neighbors to gather, connect and celebrate — and these youth clinics do just that.

“Getting together with friends on a summer day to play baseball and softball is a cherished part of childhood. It is these moments that create lifelong bonds and a love of the game,” said Kristin Rortvedt, Twins Community Fund executive director. “We are thrilled to partner with Great River Energy and the wonderful communities of Twins Territory to provide free opportunities for all kids to play ball.”