Unifying the Community through Sports

The warm sunshine casts a welcoming glow on the vibrant ABS Park in Evergreen. A bustling baseball game is underway, with enthusiastic parents and spectators cheering on the young players. Nearby, a group of energetic boys are engaging in an intense Sluggers baseball practice on the adjacent field. These scenes are a testament to the energy and excitement that permeates the sports complex, which is dedicated to instilling a passion for sports, particularly baseball, in the local youth. Chris Gillette, the youth sports director for ABS Park and creator of Sluggers Baseball, emphasizes the positive impact that the complex is having on the community. “Everybody is seeing the positive influence this is having,” he says. “And we would definitely like to see that expand.”

A Visionary Donor’s Gift

The ABS Park sports complex was made possible by the generous donation of more than 20 acres of land by Ralph and Karen Wisher, Evergreen residents. The Wisher family business, Able Body Shop, also played a significant role in the project, eventually lending its name to the facility. This selfless act of philanthropy has enabled the creation of a state-of-the-art sports complex that caters to the needs of local youth.

Complementing Existing Leagues

Sluggers Baseball, a more advanced baseball academy, is a key component of the ABS Park complex. This initiative was launched to provide a higher level of competition and training for young baseball players in the area. According to Gillette, the league aims to complement existing youth baseball leagues, such as Kalispell’s PeeWee Baseball and Babe Ruth Baseball leagues.

• Offering a more advanced program for kids to better prepare them for a future in the game
• Providing a higher level of competition and training for young baseball players
• Complementing existing youth baseball leagues, such as PeeWee and Babe Ruth Baseball leagues

Community Support and Partnerships

The ABS Park sports complex is a shining example of community-driven development. Local businesses, organizations, and residents have come together to support the project, contributing to its success. The Evergreen Rotary Club funded the playground and restrooms, while Flathead Electric Co-op installed fencing and backstops. Other community groups and businesses have also contributed to the complex’s development.

A Growing Complex

The ABS Park sports complex has undergone significant growth and development in recent years. A state-of-the-art indoor training facility was added just over a year ago, providing a cutting-edge space for athletes to train and compete. Future plans include the construction of a 600-square-foot indoor facility, picnic tables under a newly completed gazebo, and a walking path around the 20-acre park.

• Addition of a 600-square-foot indoor training facility
• Construction of a softball field for traveling softball teams
• Installation of picnic tables under a newly completed gazebo
• Construction of a walking path around the 20-acre park

Sluggers Baseball and ABS Park

Sluggers Baseball, the advanced baseball academy, is a key component of the ABS Park complex. The league provides a high level of competition and training for young baseball players, helping them to better prepare for a future in the game. ABS Park also hosts various events throughout the year, including tryouts, baseball camps, developmental fall ball, winter indoor workouts, and travel ball.

Chris Gillette’s Vision

Chris Gillette, the youth sports director for ABS Park and creator of Sluggers Baseball, shares his vision for the complex. “Baseball is peaking,” he says. “The interest in the sport is peaking. And all of these organizations are contributing to that, from PeeWee to Babe Ruth to school programs.”

Frank Garner’s Perspective

Frank Garner, president of ABS Park LLC, adds his perspective on the complex. “It’s just one of the greatest things,” he says. “As a kid who grew up in Evergreen, it’s just awesome to see.”

Conclusion

The ABS Park sports complex in Evergreen is a shining example of community-driven development, empowering youth in baseball and beyond. With its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to providing opportunities for all, ABS Park is poised to continue growing and developing, ensuring that the needs of local youth are met for years to come.