Somerville kids are stepping up to participate in Jimmy Fund Little League to help battle cancer.

Team playing in Jimmy Fund Little League
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By Rebecca Danvers

Children in Somerville are among the thousands of boys and girls, ages 8-14, participating in Jimmy Fund Little League presented by Extra Innings and Franklin Sports to help support adult and pediatric cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Institute is asking for the public’s support of Somerville 11 by generously helping them take a swing at cancer.

Jimmy Fund Little League, now in its 29th year, provides little leaguers of New England with the chance to continue to play baseball or softball after the conclusion of their regular season by participating in local tournaments and fundraising efforts. These youngsters are given the opportunity to hone their athletic skills, build self-confidence, and, most importantly help others by fundraising in their local community.

“Youth baseball and softball players from New England are encouraged to participate in Jimmy Fund Little League,” said 2015 Jimmy Fund Co-Captain and Red Sox third baseman Brock Holt. “These young athletes will learn about the importance of raising money for cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute while playing the game they love,” added Jimmy Fund Co-Captain and Red Sox third baseman Pablo Sandoval.

The top fundraising team from each district will receive tickets to the Saturday, Sept. 26 Boston Red Sox vs. Baltimore Orioles game at Fenway Park. Prizes for other top fundraising teams and individuals include on-field opportunities at a Red Sox game, tickets to the Lowell Spinners, North Shore Navigators, and Brockton Rox, batting cage sessions, private lessons, autographed Red Sox gear, and various prize packages from Extra Innings.

Last summer, more than 5,000 children throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire participated in Jimmy Fund Little League and raised more than $250,000. To support Somerville 11, visit jimmyfundlittleleague.org.