Academy Spotlight: HUSTLE, Nationals Players, and Alumni

Sunday, November 28, 2021

The Nationals Youth Baseball Academy, the signature program of Nationals Philanthropies, delivers holistic youth development programs year round including academic enrichment, physical activity, and health education – imparting a lasting impact on the lives of school-aged children living in Wards 7 and 8.

Join us as we celebrate the 10 Days of #GivingTuesday campaign – running now through the annual day of giving on Tuesday, November 30. We will highlight stories of the Academy’s impact through features of its programs and people – showcasing below our HUSTLE competitive baseball and softball program, support from Nationals players, and our distinguished alumni.

Your support during this time helps us raise critical funds to operate the Academy and sustain our youth development program. All donors of $100 or more will receive a navy winter hat featuring the Academy logo as a special thank you for your support.

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HUSTLE

HUSTLE provides year-round training and competitive gameplay for its participants as well as experiential learning opportunities and exposure to high school and college coaches through showcase events. While skill development is important, the priority is character development – using baseball and softball to instill the lessons of leadership, accountability, teamwork and a growth mindset. HUSTLE began as a way to serve the competitive and developmental needs of a dozen talented ballplayers and now serves 90 youth annually, offering both baseball and softball. The program alongside YBA PLAY introductory clinics were recently recognized as a finalist for Major League Baseball’s prestigious Allan H. Selig Award for Philanthropic Excellence.

Nationals Players

Nationals players past and present have long been ardent supports of the Nationals Youth Baseball Academy. “Player Ambassador” of the Academy, a role held currently by Josh Bell and formerly by Ian Desmond and Anthony Rendon, represents the program in the clubhouse and community. These players along with their teammates visit the Academy throughout the baseball season to engage in authentic and intentional interactions with school-aged Scholar Athletes. Many players also make generous financial and equipment donations to the program.

Alumni

Since 2018, four classes of Scholar Athletes have graduated from the Academy. Nationals Philanthropies honored the inaugural graduating class with the Power of Baseball Award for demonstrating the Academy’s core values and paving the way for future Scholar Athletes. Our distinguished alumni are making their mark in the classroom, on the ball field, and in the community. Contributions from the public ensure we can continue to support the next generation of area youth to achieve their full potential.