HYBA leagues could take the field soon

Time is ticking away on the youth baseball season, and the start of summer is here.

Since the last time the Havre Youth Baseball Association updated the public on how it's proceeding during the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple aspects of the possibility of a season have changed, especially on the more positive side.

HYBA was already working toward making a plan to allow a season to take place.

Many pieces of the puzzle have been put together since then, but back in the beginning of May, HYBA was hoping for Phase II of the re-opening in Montana to commence. HYBA released this statement earlier in the month with the plan to move forward with a season under better circumstances.

"The Havre Youth Baseball Association (HYBA) is working towards developing a plan for the 2020 Baseball Season. Planning for Babe Ruth, Majors, Minors, Rookie, and T-Ball will begin in Phase 2 of the Governor's plan to reopen the State," the statement on May 7 read. "HYBA will have additional responsibilities to ensure the health of the children and families, please continue to be patient with us as we move forward."

And that patience has paid off for HYBA and the youth leagues, as Gov. Steve Bullock announced that Phase II of the re-opening would begin June 1, allowing the leagues to play ball for the 2020 season. That has been the moment that HYBA and its players, fans and supporters have been waiting for.

With Phase II on its way, the HYBA released another statement last week about the updated situation.

"HYBA is excited to announce plans moving forward with the 2020 Baseball Season," the statement on May 21 read. "The Governor of Montana has announced Phase 2 of the State re-opening will begin on June 1, 2020. The Havre Youth Baseball Association is excited to be getting the 2020 youth summer baseball season underway in the coming weeks."

HYBA is looking for umpires for its younger leagues, as well. Those who are 11 years or older that are interested in umpiring are to contact the Havre Youth Baseball Association as soon as possible.

HYBA director Brian Jenkins added on a quick update Tuesday in regard to the season, too.

"Leagues and teams are being finalized soon and HYBA league players should hear from their coaches soon to begin practice," Jenkins said.

That's good news for minors, majors and Babe Ruth, who, at one point, weren't sure if there would be a season or not.