A holiday sports equipment drive is being held by two Temecula residents, who also just happen to be top collegiate Division 1 athletes, home for the holidays. Kelsie Whitmore (USA Women’s Baseball Team; Cal State Fullerton Softball), a 2016 graduate of TVHS, and Gavin Johns (Tennessee Tech University Baseball; NJCAA National Champion), a 2015 graduate from Chaparral High School, are teaming up to host a holiday sports equipment drive.
Both Johns and Whitmore are no strangers to putting service above self and have been doing so locally since their early days in the youth sports world. From their travel teams and work they did in the Temecula Youth Baseball league as teenagers, and countless other community giving programs they have been affiliated with, Johns and Whitmore also come from families who have big hearts, especially when it has to do with the youth that play any type of sports in the area.
“We really wanted to give back and help out some families that may be in need in our area. We know that there are many that could use a blessing, especially during these times,” Johns said.
The holiday sports equipment drive will take place Saturday, Dec. 12, in front of the D-BAT training facility in Temecula, from 9 a.m. to noon. Softball and baseball gear is being requested, and donors are asked to stay in their car and wear a mask when dropping off items.
If you personally know of any families that may be struggling during these times and can use some baseball or softball gear for their children, contact Johns at 951-972-0422, or Whitmore at 951-764-5822. The Temecula D-BAT training facility is located at 26201 Ynez Road, Suite 103, in Temecula.
JP Raineri can be reached by email at sports@reedeermedia.com.
