County honors state-bound Habersham 10U All-Stars team

CLARKESVILLE, Ga. – The Habersham County 10U All-Star baseball team, fresh off a region championship run and state tournament berth, was recognized Monday night by the Habersham County Board of Commissioners, where officials also honored a county Solid Waste Department employee for outstanding public service.

The youth baseball team received the spotlight early in the June 15 meeting as players addressed commissioners ahead of their upcoming trip to the Georgia State Tournament in Statesboro.

State-bound 10U All-Stars recognized

The players told commissioners they were proud to represent Habersham County after winning the District 7 championship and earning a berth in the state tournament at Mill Creek Regional Park in Statesboro.

“We have worked hard all season, spent many hours practicing and learning the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship and never giving up,” the players said in a prepared statement.

The team said travel, lodging and meal costs associated with the trip can be difficult for families and asked for community support as they prepare to compete on the state level.

“We are honored to wear Habersham across our jerseys, and we promise to represent our community with pride, respect and good sportsmanship,” they said.

Commission Chairman Bruce Harkness said during the meeting he would donate his commissioner salary this month to support the team’s trip.

The Habersham 10U All-Stars open state tournament play June 23 at 7 p.m. against Bremen in a double-elimination bracket.

Community fundraising effort

Assistant coach Zachary Ford previously said donations are being used to help cover travel, lodging and meal expenses for families making the trip to Statesboro.

Donations can be made via Venmo at @Habersham10U. Checks may be made payable to The Easton Foundation, which supports youth sports programs in the area.

Solid Waste employee recognized

The commissioners also recognized Ryan Ireland of the Habersham County Solid Waste Department as part of the county’s observance of Solid Waste and Recycling Workers Week.

Solid Waste Director Johnnie Vickers praised Ireland for his work at the county’s recycling center, saying residents consistently commend his willingness to help unload recyclables, assist elderly residents and provide guidance on proper recycling practices.

Vickers said Ireland’s customer service and professionalism help educate the public on recycling efforts and reflect positively on county operations.

“He represents Habersham County with integrity and professionalism, and his contributions make a lasting difference in the lives of the citizens he serves,” Vickers said.