It’s summer, which means America’s favorite pastime is back! There’s no better place to hear the crack of the bat and the spirit of fun and togetherness than Waconia, thanks to the Waconia Baseball Association. We spoke with two members, Chris Ohm, Board of Directors - Administration, and Jeff Chrest, General Manager - Advertising, to learn more about how this dedicated organization takes us out to the ballgame year after year.
What is the Waconia Baseball Association, and what programs does it offer?
We offer programming for individuals 15 and older, starting with Junior and Senior Legion, then the Waconia Lakers amateur team, and the Waconia Islanders 35 and older team.
Beyond baseball skills, what do you hope the players take away?
Waconia Baseball Association wants to instill a deep sense of pride in the community. Players who go through the program will value competition while respecting everyone both on and off the field.
Why is baseball such a beloved sport in Waconia?
One word: community. Baseball has deep roots in Waconia, where families of all ages–baseball fans or not–often gather to enjoy time at Lions Field. We’re a very prideful community when it comes to baseball.
What kind of community support do you receive?
We receive the highest support from community members in the Waconia area. It’s rare to hear “no” to anything related to baseball, and the organization is 100% volunteer-based. People just love being part of the Waconia Baseball culture.
What’s in store for the future of the Waconia Baseball Association?
We’ve added the grandstand, state-of-the-art lighting, and want to continue making the playing surface the best it can be. We’re looking to expand the perimeter of the park to add green space, and we’d also like to upgrade our batting cages.
What’s one thing someone new to town should know about baseball in Waconia?
We want Lions Field to be a destination for everyone. Summer baseball is free to the public except Lakers games, which cost $5 to enter. We also offer a full menu and beverages for most games.
For schedules, events, and more, go to www.waconiabaseball.com