Clarissa Flyers fly high again

by Manager Adam Riedel

After a nine-year break in action due to the lack of players, the Clarissa Area Flyers have re-established a group of ball players from the surrounding communities. They will compete in the Hi-10 league, Region 14C, Class “C” Minnesota Baseball Association in 2023.

This year’s team features players who are currently from or graduated from Clarissa, Eagle Bend, Browerville, Long Prairie, Bertha/Hewitt and Verndale.

The Flyers will consist of key veterans who have significant amateur experience, as well as college experience in programs like Bemidji State, University of Minnesota Crookston and Fergus Falls C.C. along with several area standout high school athletes.

Several of the current high school athletes have offered to play or will have the opportunity to play at the collegiate level in the future.

Organized baseball within the aforementioned communities started in the 1950’s.

Back then communities were growing, and in many cases each community had their own team. The league consisted of driving up or down Highway 71 along the old rail line to the game that weekend.

Currently, our small communities and schools struggle to maintain a sustainable population and so, too, amateur baseball teams struggle as well.

A strong love of small-town baseball and hard work from dedicated individuals across the county have allowed the re-establishment of the current Flyers team.

“I would like to thank every T-ball, Little League, Babe Ruth, Legion, Jr High, JV and Varsity coach and volunteer within your community, for developing and instilling a love of the game in future baseball and softball players. Their time, effort, and support are often overlooked,” stated Riedel.

“I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the support of the Clarissa Cubs, 35 years and older baseball team for their dedication to the game, volunteer time and funding support to the Flyers. Their love for baseball is as big as their mid-section,” he added.

The new Clarissa Area Flyers play their home games at the baseball field in Clarissa on County Road 11 and Leslie Avenue.

You can find the schedule, game highlights, and a featured player write-up in the weekly edition, and on the Flyers Facebook page.

As time allows, please stop by to watch the area players compete, socialize with friends and enjoy the event!