Yellow Jackets host Hit-A-Thon ahead of 2024 season

THOMASVILLE, Ga. (WALB) - In a week filled with bad weather, Thomas County Central’s baseball team still found a way to bring some light to their community. The team hosted a Hit-A-Thon, in hopes of bringing together yellowjacket fans ahead of the 2024 baseball season.

“We opened it up to the community, sell some things out of the concession stands. Everybody’s wanting baseball hats and things like that. They can get a jump start on that by coming out and watching. A lot of parents haven’t seen their kids play since June or July. They get to see their kids out on the field, swing the bat a little bit, those kinds of things” said Yellow Jacket’s Head Coach Ryan Strickland.

Yellow Jackets fans not only got the chance to watch their children but also participate in raffles and get some new TCC gear. The event didn’t just benefit the community, It also benefited the baseball team, helping them financially ahead of their upcoming season.

“It’s a way for us to raise a little bit of money, we do a Hit-A-Thon. We get 20 people to give them 20 dollars, to get a $400 donation. For our high school kids, we’re capping off our 401 off-season work” said Strickland. “For our middle school kids, they’re about to get started, they play next weekend so they’re in full till, full practice. It’s a kick-off for them and kind of a celebration for our high school guys who get to start practicing next week and hit the field as a team”

As the offseason comes to an end, the in-season grind begins for the Yellow Jackets. The long hiatus while appreciated, has players ready to get back to work.

Sophomore Isaac Henson said, “I’m looking forward to just playing baseball again, A lot of times just not being able to play for a while, just being back and playing baseball really is my favorite part.”

The Yellow Jackets finished 20-16 last season, finishing fourth in the region. This season Thomas County Central will have a much younger look this season. The team is mostly made up of underclassmen, who may not have the experience but still have one major goal this season.

For Reid Gainous that’s to “Win a state championship.”

The quest for a state title starts on February 12th at Colquitt County. The first pitch is set for 6 pm for the Yellow Jackets.

Donations to the program can still be made at https://givebutter.com/TCC20for20 .

There are still several hat styles available for $30. If you see one you like, contact Coach Strickland at rstrickland@tcjackets.net or see any coach.

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