GORHAM, Maine – The University of Southern Maine Huskies' baseball team is partnering up with the UMaine Black Bears program to take part in the second annual "Goody's Gloves" glove drive. First year head coach Scott Heath, a former Black Bear student-athlete and Associate Head Coach for the UMaine Program, is joining forces with UMaine Head Coach Nick Derba to assist in providing local area baseball players with needed equipment.
 
Founded in 2023 by former Black Bear Connor Goodman, "Goody's Gloves" looks to give back to Maine communities by accepting donations of new or slightly worn baseball gloves, and monetary donations that will be used to purchase gloves, for families in local communities in Maine. In its inaugural season, 2023, Goody's Gloves raised in excess of $6000, which was used to purchase more than 100 gloves.
 
"I'm excited to bring this outstanding event to the Husky baseball community," said Southern Maine head coach Scott Heath. "Being able to grow the game of baseball within local communities through the gift of essential sports equipment is a great way to give back. Participation in the sport of baseball, like all competitive endeavors, has helped develop the character and leadership ability of many, and this is one small way to increase those opportunities for young baseball players in Maine."
 
Beginning September 7 and running through September 25, Huskies' baseball will be accepting nominations from community members, little league representatives and coaches for potential communities within the State of Maine that would benefit the most from the "Goody's Gloves" fundraising event. Nominations can be sent to UMaine Head Coach Nick Derba at: nicholas.derba@maine.edu
 
Finalists will be announced on Huskies' Baseball social media (twitter: @southernmbsb; Instagram: @southernmbsb) on October 1. UMaine Baseball social media will then open a community-wide vote. The winning community will be announced on October 15.
 
Husky fans and community members who are interested in and able to support Southern Maine's efforts in Goody's Gloves can donate new or slightly used baseball gloves at the Costello Sports Complex on the Gorham campus of the University of Southern Maine. A donation box will be set up outside of Coach Heath's office for the duration of the drive.  Financial donations can also be made. The team asks that donations be made by cash or check. Checks can be made payable to: Maineball LLC, 5745 Mahaney Clubhouse, Orono, Maine 04469 – Attached Name: Nick Derba.
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