Lakeview Little League Improvements
The Lakeview Little League made significant improvements to its T-Ball field thanks to a $57,240 grant awarded by the Collins McDonald Trust in 2022. The funding supported the installation of an underground sprinkler system, new sod for the T-Ball field, and improvements to the parking area surrounding the complex.
The T-Ball field had been the last field in the complex without grass, creating ongoing challenges with weeds, dust, and maintenance. The new irrigation system and sod transformed the field into a safer, more playable surface while reducing long-term maintenance needs.
During the summer, the underground sprinkler system was successfully installed with the help of Shannon Theall and Pardue Construction. Theall provided technical oversight throughout the project, while Pardue Construction provide equipment and labor to complete the installation.
The first shipment of sod arrived from Pro-Grass of Northern California. Lakeview Little League families joined members of the Black Cap Livestock 4-H Club to install the first 18,000 square feet of sod, with a second shipment arriving the following week to complete the project. The volunteer effort marked another milestone in improving the community's youth sports facilities.
Additional upgrades were also completed throughout the ballfield complex. Four new dugouts were constructed with support from a $6,000 grant provided by the Rotary Club and proceeds from Little League raffle sales. K Bar 6 Construction prepared the foundations and completed construction of the dugouts before winter, while Wells Redi-Mix donated a portion of the concrete used for the project.
The success of the improvements reflected the strong support of numerous local organizations and community members. The Lake County Cooperative Weed Management Area donated both materials and labor for weed control efforts. The Lakeview School District provided labor assistance for field maintenance projects as needed. The league also recognized the contributions of groundskeeper Zane Hall, whose position was funded through Easterseals. Before Hall's position was established, maintaining the ballfields year-round proved difficult, and the fields often became overgrown with weeds after each baseball season. Consistent maintenance has helped preserve the quality of the facilities and protect the community's investment in the complex.
The field improvements demonstrated what could be accomplished through community partnerships, volunteerism, and local grant funding. Together, these efforts created safer, higher-quality facilities that will benefit Lakeview's young athletes and their families for years to come.
