PITCH IN!

Imagine a future where every high school student has the chance to experience the life-changing benefits of baseball. Together, we can build a community that nurtures values such as teamwork, discipline, and personal growth, both on and off the field. By introducing a high school baseball program, we can create an environment that not only develops talented athletes but also molds well-rounded individuals who are ready to thrive in life.

HISTORY OF PROJECT

In January 2022, the Montana High School Association (MHSA) officially sanctioned baseball as a sport for Montana high schools.

By 2023, a total of 31 schools, represented by 25 teams, had started participating in high school baseball.

In May 2023, ABB began collaborating with the Billings Public Schools athletic director to establish a local program. The team's efforts included:

Meeting with representatives from Little League, Billings American Legion Baseball, Billings Mustangs, and the City Parks Department. All parties recognized the importance of collaborative work in providing a high school program for student athletes.
Developing an annual operating budget, acquiring start-up inventory, and addressing other necessary expenses.
Conducting questionnaires among Billings high school students and community members, which revealed significant player interest and community support for a baseball program.

In November 2023, the proposal for high school baseball was initially rejected by the SD2 school board due to concerns about potential funding.

However, in December 2023, the team presented a funding proposal to the SD2 school board, which was approved on the condition that the program be fully funded through fundraising efforts.

GOALS

To support the introduction of high school baseball in Billings, a total funding of $506,600 is required. This amount will cover the cost for three years for the three high schools in Billings participating: Senior, Skyview, and West.

The first-year cost, including start-up and annual expenses, is estimated to be $244,000. A fundraising deadline of July 1, 2024, has been set to secure this amount.

For the second and third years, a yearly operating budget of $131,000 will be needed. Fundraising efforts for these annual expenses must be completed by July 1, 2025.

Starting from 2027, the SD2 school board will take over the program's yearly cost of $131,000.

CONTACT ADVOCATES FOR BILLINGS BASEBALL LEADERSHIP

406.360.9004 | hlusse@gmail.com - Hollis Edwards

406.426.0079 | tylerb@mckinstry.com - Tyler Bush

406.794.7280 | drsmith@bfah.net - DJ Smith

**The Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools is the 501c3 fiscal agent supporting the Advocates for Billings Baseball fundraising efforts. The Education Foundation EIN is 81-0452904.**

High School Baseball

Advocates for Billings Baseball bringing HS Baseball to Billings!