IN Keystone Oaks Spring 2025 | Page 13

The Dormont Athletic Boosters Association ( DABA ) is a nonprofit formed in 1949 . Several local residents had seen the value in kids learning to succeed in life through the lessons of sports competition . Approximately 500 children now participate in DABA sports each year , along with community events .

Many lifelong friendships begin as teammates . DABA President Kevin Honsberger says , “ It helps kids because they get to know each other on the field . And then when they go to school , they already know many of their classmates from baseball .”
Honsberger also believes in the value of competitive sports . “ It teaches kids to work as a team for a common goal , and not to give up when things get tough . They learn to push through it together . It builds character .”
Dormont offers T-ball for ages 5 and 6 , where kids learn the basics of hitting , with the ball being placed on a platform rather than pitched . The other teams are also divided by age group : 7- and 8-yearolds , 9 and 10 , 11 and 12 , 13 and 14 , and
15-17 . This helps to ensure that kids will be playing with others similar in size and skill level . Registration is already underway for the 2025 season . It will continue into February until the team rosters are filled . It ’ s advisable to sign up sooner rather than later , since teams often fill up quickly . Honsberger adds that DABA works with nearby teams in Scott Township , Bridgeville , Collier Township , Green Tree and Castle Shannon to find a team for kids to participate if rosters are already full .
DABA is an all-volunteer organization . Members of the community willing to help — and sponsors — are essential for the league to continue . Coaches are always needed , particularly assistant coaches to help with duties both on and off the field . The concession stands are operated entirely by volunteers as well . Tournaments occur about four to five times per year and require lots of volunteers for administrative roles as well as active , including announcers , scorekeepers , field workers and more . DABA also accepts donations of good used equipment .
The organization sponsors a raffle each year , with a July 4 drawing to win up to $ 5,000 . The teams also hold hoagie fundraisers . If you can contribute by purchasing a ticket or hoagie , it will help ensure that kids are not only playing sports but building character .
Lastly , if you own a company or local business , DABA offers banner sponsorships along the outfield fence . You can make the community aware of your support for local youth sports by purchasing a banner .
DABA has tennis and softball teams for children as well . To learn more , visit dormontboosters . com , or follow on Facebook at facebook . com / DormontAthleticBoostersAssociation . n
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