Mayor Johnson, MLB, Conference of Mayors Introduce ‘Mayor Plays Ball’ Initiative in Savannah
SAVANNAH – The City of Savannah and Mayor Van R. Johnson, II, in collaboration with Major League Baseball (MLB) and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, is proud to announce the launch of Mayor Plays Ball, a new recreational initiative aimed at promoting youth participation in baseball.
This event is part of the national Play Ball program, which encourages cities to host community-based events that introduce children to the fundamentals of baseball and softball in a fun and engaging environment.
The inaugural event will take place on Tuesday, June 10, at the historic Grayson Stadium from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program is open to boys and girls aged 5 to 12 and will feature sandlot-style games, skill-building drills, and interactive activities designed to teach the basics of baseball while emphasizing teamwork, sportsmanship, and fun.
Participants will have the opportunity to engage with players and coaches from the Savannah Bananas organization. Players from the Bananas exhibition league teams The Bananas, Party Animals, Firefighters, and Texas Tailgaters will lead instructional sessions, demonstrate skills, and play games with the children.
Following the on-field activities, attendees will be treated to a complimentary lunch, an icy treat from Kona Ice, and a brief awards ceremony recognizing participation and sportsmanship.
To register, parents or guardians can complete the online form available at, savannahga.gov/MayorPlaysBall. For additional event information, contact Farrah Lawrence at Farrah.Lawrence@savannahga.gov.
This free event is made possible by the City’s Recreation and Leisure Services Department, Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement (ONSE), and the Savannah Police Department’s Police Athletic League (PAL) and Community Engagement division, with generous support from community partners Curtis V. Cooper Primary Health Care, Healthy Savannah, Kona Ice and The Front Porch.
What: Mayor Plays Ball – A Youth Baseball Initiative
When: Tuesday, June. 10, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: Grayson Stadium, 1401 E Victory Dr.
Who: Open to Boys & Girls aged 5-12
Cost: Free
Information: Farrah.lawrence@savannahga.gov
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About PLAY BALL
Play Ball is a nationwide initiative launched by MLB and the U.S. Conference of Mayors to encourage youth engagement in baseball and softball. The program focuses on providing opportunities for children to enjoy the game in a casual setting, fostering a love for the sport and promoting physical activity.
About the U.S. Conference of Mayors
The U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) is the official nonpartisan organization of cities with populations of 30,000 or more. Representing over 1,400 cities across the country, the USCM brings together mayors to share ideas, advocate for urban policy solutions, and promote collaboration on key issues such as public safety, infrastructure, economic development, and youth engagement.
About the Savannah Bananas
The Savannah Bananas are an exhibition baseball team based in Savannah, Georgia, known for their unique and entertaining approach to the game. Through their "Banana Ball" format, the team has gained national attention for combining baseball with choreographed performances and fan interaction, making the sport accessible and fun for all ages.