OriolesREACH to conduct three youth clinics this spring, invite area youth to apply to take part in April 13 clinic

As part of their Sarasota 365 commitment to the community, the Orioles and OriolesREACH will conduct three clinics for area youth on the main field at Ed Smith Stadium over the coming weeks. Two are for pre-selected children from local Boys and Girls Clubs and the third, on April 13, is open to Sarasota County youth ages 8-14. All participants will receive instruction in baseball fundamentals from Orioles players, coaches and staff members. The first clinic will be held this Saturday, March 2 beginning at 12:30 p.m. and will include 50 youth from the Roy McBean Boys and Girls Club in Sarasota. The second clinic will take place on Saturday, March 9 at 12:30 and will include 25 participants from the Gene Matthews Boys and Girls Club in North Port and 25 youth from the Robert and Joan Lee Boys and Girls Club in Venice. In addition to baseball instruction, the Orioles will provide transportation to and from the ballpark and refreshments for all the participants. The final clinic, scheduled for Saturday, April 13 at 2:00 p.m. at Ed Smith Stadium, will be open to pre-selected Sarasota County youth ages 8-14. Those interested must complete an application form available now at Ed Smith Stadium or at www.orioles.com/sarasota and clicking "Community Calendar". Print and mail the completed form to Ed Smith Stadium, Attn: April 13 Clinic, 2700 12th Street, Sarasota, FL 34237 or drop off at the Herald-Tribune Information Booth behind home plate on any gameday by March 30. From submissions received, 50 boys and girls will be randomly selected to receive instruction in throwing, hitting, fielding and baserunning from Orioles minor league players and instructors. Those selected will be notified by April 5.