In launching their third year of their partnership, Pitcher Chris Archer, the Tampa Bay Rays and Good Sports presented a variety of new equipment to the baseball and softball teams at Port Charlotte High School. This donation includes bats, catcher's equipment, batting helmets, and training equipment for their baseball and softball teams, as well as equipment for the school's Physical Education program, and is valued at over $10,000.
"These donations not only will help our athletic teams but also, our Physical Education classes," says Port Charlotte High School Athletic Director, Bob Bruglio. "The whole experience of being approved for this grant has been a blessing to our school. We here at Port Charlotte High School cannot thank Good Sports and the Tampa Bay Rays enough."
Chris Archer took time out of his Spring Training schedule to come meet with the players. During the event, the players engaged Chris in a discussion on a variety of topics, including his rise to the Major Leagues, his commitment to supporting the community outside of baseball, and the importance of doing well in school to ensure a successful career when they grow up, no matter the field.
"I am really grateful to be a part of this partnership with the Rays and Good Sports," says Archer. "Through this program we have been able to have a positive impact on a lot of kids between Charlotte County and the Tampa Bay area. I also feel fortunate to play for an organization that takes on such an active role in the community."
"The more we learn about the benefits of sport and physical activity both in the short and long term, the more it is important that we ensure all kids have those opportunities," says Christy Keswick, Chief Operating Officer at Good Sports. "We are thrilled that Chris Archer and the Tampa Bay Rays share this philosophy and that together we are continuing our work to keep these kids in the game."
About the Tampa Bay Rays
The Tampa Bay Rays mission is to energize the community through the magic of Rays baseball. The organization is committed to building a strong community bond through meaningful interactions and charitable donations, and has proudly represented Major League Baseball since 1998.
About Good Sports
Good Sports gives all kids the lifelong benefits of sport and physical activity by providing equipment, apparel and footwear to those most in need. Since 2003, Good Sports has provided more than $16 million worth of equipment to more than 2,700 youth programs, impacting nearly THREE MILLION kids. Good Sports has also been awarded a coveted 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, the nation's largest charity evaluator, for sound fiscal management, transparency and accountability; is a Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance accredited charity; and is listed on Social Impact Exchange's S&I 100, an index of top American nonprofits creating meaningful social impact. For more information on how you can support Good Sports, please visit www.goodsports.org.