Henryetta’s youth baseball and softball program will look a lot different this year.
State rules governing safe distancing will see no more bleachers or use of the team dugouts at the baseball fields at Nichols Park.
Tuesday night Vince Williams, head of the Henryetta Youth Baseball and Softball association, told Henryetta city council members practice will be starting June 1 with league play to start June 18.
He explained parents must bring their own lawn chairs and maintain at least six feet distance. Attendance will be limited to only household members of the players.
“We are going to drag the bleachers away,” Williams said. “We have 15 minutes between each game to clean out the trash can. In addition, the association will be providing hand sanitizers and will not be operating a concession stand.
“Players must use their own gloves, helmets and bats. Each player must bring their own water bottles and snacks. The kids will not be allowed to congregate and there will been hand shaking after the games.”
During the game, teams batting will be restricted to only two players inside the fence and only eight kids and two coaches will be allowed on the field.
“It’s not going to affect the kids as much as the adults,” he said.
There are 18 local teams and eight out of town teams that will be playing this season.
The council gave approval for the ball fields to be used as long as guidelines from the Governor are adhered to.