Uganda Baseball and Softball Association has started celebrations to commemorate one of the most iconic baseball players Jackie Robinson.
This, the association has done through training clinics for the youth with the first at Mbarara’s Kakyeeka stadium.
The association’s insistence on spreading the sport has gained momentum as the world celebrates the life and times of legendary baseball player Robinson.
Jackie Robinson is monumental for being the first African-American to break the color barrier and feature for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947.
His legacy has impacted and is celebrated every year in several countries.
In Uganda, the baseball and softball association decided to carry out clinics across the country purposely to spread the sport and also create awareness amidst the covid-19 pandemic.
“The 42 programme was initiated by Jackie Robinson and we remember him for what he did as a black man,” stated Rev Emmanuel Kabambi.
“On Saturday 23rd, we are to take the same initiative to the Eastern part of the country before a grand final in Kampala at later communicated date and venue.”
The first stop has been Mbarara at Kakyeeka stadium where about 60 youngsters from the community were tutored.
The enthusiasm of the kids many of whom were first time contacts with baseball spoke volumes.
The kids were taken through various basics of the sport notably batting, fielding, base running and modern catch and throw techniques.
Baseball and softball has been played for the past 30 years in Uganda with many proud to associate.
The memory of Robinson who wore the number 42 jersey to prominence will continue in Tororo on Thursday before climaxing with a grand finale on Saturday in Kampala.
