Press Release

Plymouth Recreation Department Receives $26,626 Grant Award from Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation

(Boston, MA) – Senate President Therese Murray (D-Plymouth) and the Town of Plymouth announced today that the Plymouth Recreation Department has been chosen to receive a $26,626 grant made up of equipment and funding through the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation. The Town will receive $4,182 worth of baseball and softball equipment and Quickball equipment. The remaining $22,444 will be a cash grant to help support the town’s Cal Ripken Instructional Baseball Program.

“I know that the Town of Plymouth will put this grant money and the equipment to great use in providing a positive outlet for our kids,” Senate President Murray said. “At a time when local budgets are tightening, it is heartening to see an organization like the Cal Ripken, Sr.  Foundation work to ensure that communities can still provide top-notch organized recreation for children.

“We are excited that Plymouth will be able to offer America’s pastime to a new generation of players,”  Town Manger Mark Sylvia remarked.  “I appreciate the work of our Recreation Director in securing this grant and look forward to attending opening day.”

“This grant allows the Recreation Department to offer a variety of instructional baseball programs to Plymouth youth at very reduced fees,” said Barry DeBlasio, Plymouth’s Recreation Director. “All of the programs will incorporate the Cal Ripken Sr. philosophy of good sportsmanship and focus on their "Badges for Baseball" and "Healthy Choices, Healthy Children" curriculum.’

“We are excited to be teaming up with Senate President Murray and the Town of Plymouth to provide coaches, role models and mentors to help kids make the right choices in life and give them every advantage to grow into caring, healthy and successful adults,” said Dennis Murphy, the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation.

The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation disburses millions of dollars in award funds and equipment each year. The Foundation has employed its award program to support healthy character development and social competence, baseball and softball skill development, and the growth and appreciation of team sports at the grassroots level.