By Jenifer Bubenik, Program Director

This past month, Girl Scouts – NC Coastal Pines partnered with the Carolina Mudcats to help girls work towards a baseball/softball badge, all while having fun in a hands-on experience at the July 12 game. Girls and families were able to enter our Mudcats ticket giveaway for the game on Facebook by telling us what their favorite family summer activity was.  Answers included kayaking, visiting the beach, pool time and, of course, baseball games!

As girls and their families arrived at the Five County Stadium, they were treated to a pre-game question and answer session with Carolina Mudcats coaches and players.  Girls were also able to receive autographed Mudcats photos and had a chance to watch batting practice before lining up on the field to join the players for the National Anthem.  Over 250 girls and their families partook in this fun activity.

Two special Girl Scouts were chosen to throw out the first pitch and sing the National Anthem.  Eryn O., who was recently awarded the Life-Saving medal for her heroic actions did a great job throwing the ball across home plate before Julianna F. sang the National Anthem in front of a packed house.   Both girls are Girl Scout Seniors and have been participating in Girl Scouting since they were Daisies — Wow, Girl Scouts.  Thank you for your leadership!

After the event, members of Girl Scout Troop #198 agreed they want to “be a baseball player!” when they grow up.

Last year Girl Scouts of the USA implemented GirlSports, a program that encourages our girls to participate in sports activities and earn their Legacy Athlete badges.  Through this program girls are able to gain new skills-like cross training to up their fitness levels or becoming a coach to see what it takes to lead and make a difference.

By participating in GirlSports, girls can hear stories from inspiring women athletes and visit our inspiring women timeline.  They can see trailblazers, like Lisa Leslie the legendary basketball star, or learn about women athletes on the first all-American girl’s professional baseball league.  They can play sports games and watch videos to learn more about sports-related careers.

With over 30 GirlSports badges, there is something for everyone.  Girls can learn to set goals, be a good teammate, and reach their health and fitness goals.  Girls can also post pictures of themselves in action on the GirlSports Photo Wall through Instagram or Twitter using #GSSports.

Be on the look-out for more GirlSports programs in our 2014-2015 program guides and on social media, including our upcoming Girl Scout night with the Carolina RailHawks on September 20!  Join us as we get out, and get movin’!