About Us | NECBL : Sanford Mainers (original) (raw)

In late 2001, New England Collegiate Baseball League approached the Town of Sanford, Maine about the potential of having a team. Sanford's Parks and Recreation Director Marcel Blouin met with various officials and proposed Goodall Park, as the home field for a team. The group agreed to explore the idea and drew interest of many.

Local officials and business leaders were excited. Start-up funds were provided through the generosity of local businessmen Allen Mapes, Ron Woodward, and Geoff Titherington, as well as Neil Olson, a businessman from Bethel, Maine who had previously been involved in the Lowell All-Americans. In the second year, local investors Bob Hardison, Bob Gonyou, Joe Vitko, Gary Miller, and Curtis Jacks also joined the management team. After a few years of continued success, the Mainers' management group agreed the team should be operated by the true shareholders, and shifted ownership to a volunteer group of citizens of Sanford-Springvale and local communities. With the vibrant effort and commitment from this management group, the foundation was set for the future success of the Mainers in the NECBL.

NECBL teams are a true asset to their communities, where the players not only hone their skills looking to a future in the big leagues, but also are involved with their host families, who are kind enough to feed and house them as they play baseball and participate in other aspects of community service. Families in the greater Sanford area are encouraged to contact the Mainers if they are interested in welcoming a member of the team into their home.

The players and coaches also run a great summer camps and clinics for youth boys and girls ages right here in Sanford. All youngsters are encouraged to contact the Mainers for camp enrollment information. Host families and volunteers are the backbone of the Sanford Mainers organization. It is truly a family affair and we hope that you will bring your family to Sanford and continue the rich tradition of baseball that has existed in this town even before Babe Ruth stepped up to the plate at historic Goodall Park.

Please join us this season as the Mainers enter their 23rd season of bringing quality baseball and entertainment to the City of Sanford at Goodall Park!