Rare snow flurries were one of the many sights at the April 20 second annual 4-H Science Day with the Lansing Lugnuts.
Winter-like temperatures, however, could not stop excited youth from enjoying activities and demonstrations taking place around the ballpark. Although the baseball game was canceled, youth got a behind-the-scenes look at science as it relates to the sport and took part in a number of hands-on activities. In addition, youth learned what goes into maintaining the turf grass field, how to properly throw a baseball and what goes into event food services.
Pitching coach Vince Horseman demonstrated the importance of proper mechanics when throwing a baseball. His goal of the demonstration was for youth and their parents to get a better understanding of the science related to throwing a baseball.
With all that takes place at Cooley Law School Stadium, the game of baseball itself is just one of the ways that science is in play with the Lansing Lugnuts.
Maintaining the playing field also means that head groundskeeper Mike Kacsor is constantly integrating science with baseball. He talked to youth and their families about how to maintain a baseball field in Michigan where the weather frequently changes. He also discussed proper times to water a field, the differences in sand in regions across the country and how fields can differ. Because science plays a major role in his job, he was able to illustrate to youth the array of topics associated with his profession.
Kacsor kept busy this past week as the Lugnuts got ready for their home opener to ensure that the field was looking its finest.
Those who purchased game tickets will be able to use them for any other home game this season. To see when the Lugnuts play at home, check their online schedule at www.lansinglugnuts.com for dates and times of future games.