Young Baseball Players from Belarus Receive American Sports Equipment

CDA Jonathan Benton ready to catch ball

On March 24, 2012, Charge D’Affaires Jonathan Benton and USAID Country Director John Riordan attended a baseball practice hosted by the “Piranhas” Youth Baseball Club to announce a donation of equipment provided by the U.S. non-profit organization Pitch In For Baseball.   In his remarks, CDA Benton noted that he was pleased that baseball, often known as “America’s pastime,” is now becoming popular in Belarus.  He expressed the hope that the donated baseballs, bats, helmets and gloves would help the young Belarusian baseball players improve their game and achieve their athletic goals.

Following an official ceremony, the American guests had a chance to informally communicate with the young baseball players, their coach, representatives of the Belarus Baseball and Softball Association and media reps. “Piranhas” players invited American guests to try out the new equipment – CDA Benton proved a great catcher and John Riordan excelled in pitching.