Bringing baseball back to Drakes Branch

Charlotte County Recreation Association revitalizes baseball field, builds playground

By April Hall, Staff Writer

The Charlotte County Recreation Association (CCRA), founded in 2001 by James Gregory, continues its quest to breathe new life back into the Drakes Branch baseball field and help bring games back to the town. For many years, crowds would gather to play and watch baseball games in the quaint town of Drakes Branch, but when the ball field no longer met regulation size back in the early 1990’s, Drakes Branch players were forced to play in other areas of the county, leaving the ball field unused except for the occasional practice.

The ball field in its current state however, does meet regulation size for midget play and this year’s Dixie Youth League Midgets, ages 7-8, are expected to play games on the field which has been receiving a facelift by local volunteers. One volunteer and baseball coach, in particular, Jeff Rapole, has played an instrumental role in the revitalization of the ball field. Coaches and volunteers Phillip Watts and Al Hartley have also assisted, giving much of their time in the efforts to bring new life back into this community treasure.

In speaking with Gregory, the president and founder of the certified non-profit (501C3) association on Tuesday, he stated that “the community should expect to see some Midget games being played on the field this season,” “and the goal is to bring back games for all age groups by next year.” Gregory added that “the association plans to purchase temporary fencing (a portable fencing, that can be moved to meet regulation sizes) that would allow for all age groups to play on the field.”

The property on which the Drakes Branch ball field sits is owned by the Bailey family of Lunenburg. “We would like to give a special thanks to the Bailey family for the use of the property,” said Gregory.

In addition to reaching its goals to bring back the game of baseball to the Town of Drakes Branch, the association is also working towards the completion of a playground, just up the street from the ball field. The association holds dual-purpose fundraisers in its efforts, with the most recent being the Mega Reunion held last year at Briery Country Club, and with the next fundraiser set for Saturday, June 11 at Diamond Hill Resort. The fundraiser, “A Touch of Class – The Day Party,” is a classy and elegant day party to be held in the resort’s beautiful gardens at 252 David Bruce Ave. in Charlotte Court House. It is being co-hosted by Troy Jones; the tickets are only $15 each and will be available for purchase soon. For more information, contact James Gregory at 434-315-3644.

The Charlotte County Recreation Association just concluded its 15^th year of basketball play and this year marks the second year for baseball. Anyone wishing to donate to the association can do so by mailing a check made out to the association to 175 Marshall Street, Drakes Branch, VA  23937 or by calling Mr. Gregory at 434-315-3644. All donations are tax-deductible.