A foundation has launched in Petersburg to allow more kids to be exposed to America’s favorite pastime. The foundation prides itself on building better futures through baseball.
Kids On First Foundation (KOFF), created by Sherry Cerny of Richmond, was started to give minority kids the opportunity to participate in baseball by prioritizing player development, removing barriers related to cost, transportation, equipment, and coaching.
The long-term vision of KOFF is to see more diversity in all levels of baseball starting with under-invested communities within the Tri-Cities area.
“I created Kids on First after watching the 2019 draft and interviewing minority players who formerly played in Major League Baseball, and learning how hard it was to walk in and not identify with others in the same uniform,” Cerny said.
Cerny says participation in baseball for Black children and other children of color is at an all-time low.
”I want to not only raise the awareness, but also the capability for [kids in communities that are] underserved to be able to play the game the same as those who have the funds and opportunities in other areas. We believe that providing equitable options will provide more opportunities for kids in underserved areas.”
For more information on Kids on First Foundation, go to Kids on First Foundation.
Feature image: Sherry Cerny (center) is show with VSU Coach Marcus Morgan, and Malachi Morgan, who plays for the Savannah Bananas, and VSU baseball players Gene, Matt, and Mitch.
