CAMPS
PERSONAL LEADERSHIP CAMPS
AAO has forged alliances with strategic partners who share our vision for making a positive impact on today's youth.
Big League Experience Baseball Camp
is the longest running, and most notable residential baseball camp in North America. Under the direction of Oliver residents Don Coy and John Vanderburgh, the camp came into fruition in 1960. One year later, a strong baseball addition to the camp came in the form of Washington State Hall of Fame player/coach Dale Parker, who’s resources and baseball connections took the camp to another level.
In the mid 80s, Bob Kokotailo took over and continued the legacy of the camp until the mid 90s. Bob brought a baseball passion to Oliver, of which his whole family was a part of.
Since 1997, the camp has been directed by former Major League scout and Team Canada coach Marty Lehn, and former professional baseball player and Team Canada member Colin Dixon.
“Our goal is to continue the legacy of the original owners by offering a camp that teaches young men and boys how to play the game of baseball in a professional manner and provide them with an experience that gives the game the respect it truly deserves.”
Big League Experience Camp objectives expand beyond the playing field and are meant to influence all aspects of life:
In addition to summer baseball camps, the Big League Experience hosts quality baseball tournaments, as well as offering player/coach baseball clinics and Travel Events to Las Vegas and Arizona.
We feel extremely fortunate to be able to spend so much time on a baseball field doing something we love while passing along some of our passion for the game and the fellowship that it brings.
AAO plays a pivotal role in the renowned Big League Experience's baseball camps, extending its support by generously providing scholarships to deserving players for an immersive week-long personal leadership experience set amidst the stunning backdrop of Oliver, BC, Canada.
SPONSOR A CAMPER
AAO is dedicated to sponsoring the transformative journey of 10 campers this year, each provided with an unparalleled opportunity. With a cost of $1,000 per camper, this investment encompasses far more than just a week-long retreat. It's an immersive personal leadership experience, designed to etch memories that will last a lifetime. Not only will campers hone their skills on the field, but they will also gain invaluable intangible skill sets, transcending the game and enriching their everyday lives.
- The Against All Odds Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization registered in the state of Arizona -
- All donations are tax-deductible -
San Rafael Baseball Camps
In the heart of the enchanting barrio of San Rafael, a beacon of hope and inspiration rises amidst the dusty streets and vibrant culture. Born from the passionate vision of Shea, the Barrio San Rafael Baseball Camps stand as a testament to the power of compassion and determination.
Nestled seven miles east of the bustling thoroughfares of Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico, San Rafael beckons with its rich tapestry of life and tradition. A mere four-hour journey from the bustling metropolis of Phoenix, Arizona, and just a stone's throw across the Mexican border, this vibrant neighborhood sits proudly atop the Sea of Cortez, where dreams find fertile ground.
At the heart of this endeavor lies the belief that every child deserves love, recognition, and purpose. Through the timeless allure of baseball, Against All Odds (AAO) embraces the youth of San Rafael, offering not just a game, but a lifeline of hope. Here, the children are not just players but cherished souls, each one seen and valued for their unique potential. Under the benevolent gaze of the Mayor of Puerto Penasco, AAO has been granted a sacred ground – a baseball field that serves as the nexus of community spirit. Bound to the beating heart of San Rafael's community center, this hallowed field becomes more than just a patch of dirt; it becomes a sanctuary where dreams take flight.
In a gesture of unwavering dedication, AAO has fortified this sanctuary, erecting a sturdy perimeter fence to shield the young dreamers from the harsh realities beyond. The dugouts and bleachers, adorned in the vibrant hues of navy blue and orange, pay homage to Puerto Penasco's esteemed baseball team, the Tiburones.
Moreover, through meticulous care and effort, AAO has banished the encroaching tumbleweeds, transforming the field into a pristine canvas of possibility, where the echoes of laughter and the crack of the bat resound with joy and promise.In the sun-kissed fields of San Rafael, hope takes root, and dreams soar higher than the seagulls that dance upon the sea breeze. Together, with your generous support, Against All Odds continues to weave a tapestry of love, purpose, and triumph for the beautiful children of Barrio San Rafael.
SUPPORT OUR SAN RAFAEL CAMP
AAO's dedication knows no bounds as we pledge to host a baseball camp in the San Rafael Neighborhood every quarter this year. But our commitment doesn't end there. Between these camps, we stand shoulder to shoulder with local coaches, empowering them to nurture the love of the game among the youth. How do we do it? By investing in their education, covering their high school expenses in exchange for their invaluable mentorship of the cherished children of San Rafael. Together, we cultivate not just baseball skills, but a legacy of passion and growth in our community.
At the end of each camp, we feed the children in attendance, a healthy nutrition rich lunch. This allows the campers to experience possibilities beyond their imagination.
- The Against All Odds Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization registered in the state of Arizona -
- All donations are tax-deductible -