By Analiz González
Buckner International

(SAN ANTONIO, Texas) — South San Filadelfia Baptist Church and Buckner International held its first-ever opening ceremony for the South San Filadelfia baseball league for boys and girls on May 31.

The league’s mission statement is to “provide an affordable baseball league for the community around South San Filadelfia Church to promote health and wellness, team building skills and discipline through the sport of baseball.”

It’s one of the many services offered through Buckner’s community ministry program at the church, according to Buckner community ministry coordinator Sara Rangel.

“Our South San community is plagued with an increase of health issues that range from diabetes to high blood pressure,” she said. “In an effort to address these health issues our church has decided to target our children and give them a sport to play in order to promote exercise within the competition of baseball.”

The teams consist of eight to 10 boys and girls ages 4 through 8. Most of the participants are not members of the church.

“We only charge $30 per child and are open to the community,” Rangel said. “Other leagues can cost $90 if not $100 or $130.”

U.S. Congressman Ciro Rodriguez and County Commissioner Sergio (Chico) Rodriguez attended the event.

“Baseball in South San Antonio has a rich history,” Rodriguez said. “Several of the local school districts are routinely competing for state championships. From youth baseball leagues up to the high school level, neighborhoods pride themselves on the success of their teams.

“The league will allow for this community to come together and interact. Neighbors who know one another and develop friendships strengthen their community. They look out for each others property and hopefully deter crime.”

For more information on the South San Filadelfia baseball league, or other ministries provided by Buckner at the church, call 210-923-7759.